Things to do in Oban: distillery, seafood and excursions to Mull and Iona

Nicknamed the "gateway to the islands", Oban Oban is a small port town on Scotland's west coast, renowned for its seafood, distillery, and ferries to the Inner Hebrides. It's the perfect base for exploring Mull, Iona, and Fingal's Cave on Staffa. Here's what to do in and around Oban. Based in the UK since 2012, we include it in our tailor-made trips to Scotland.

In short: In Oban, climb McCaig's Tower for views across the bay, visit the Oban Distillery, founded in 1794, and sample the fresh seafood from the harbor. From Oban, take day trips to the Isle of Mull and its colorful Tobermory harbor, to Iona and its abbey, and to Staffa and Fingal's Cave, home to puffins in the summer. Allow 2 to 3 days.

Things to do in Oban: the must-sees

McCaig's Tower

This circular tower, inspired by the Colosseum in Rome, has dominated the city since the late 19th century. Climb it in a few minutes to enjoy a magnificent view of the bay and the islands, especially at sunset.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Things to do in Oban: distillery, seafood and excursions to Mull and Iona "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

Your ideal coastal spot?

Cliffs and sweeping panoramasBeaches, harbors and small villages

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You're exploring instead…

On foot along a pathBy car with several stops

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Need a break?

A beautiful viewpointA cafe or pub by the water

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What appeals to you most?

The wild sideThe atmosphere of the villages

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The perfect end to the day?

A sunsetA good local dinner

The Oban distillery

Founded in 1794, it is one of the oldest and smallest distilleries in Scotland. The guided tour concludes with a tasting of its single malt whisky. Also read our guide to... distilleries of Scotland.

Seafood

Oban is often described as the seafood capital of Scotland. On the harbor, sample langoustines, mussels and oysters, sometimes served directly in small huts.

Excursions from Oban

The Isle of Mull and Tobermory

A 45-minute ferry ride away, Mull is one of the largest islands in the Inner Hebrides. Don't miss Tobermory with its colorful harborside houses, Duart Castle, and the island's wild landscapes.

Iona and its abbey

From Mull, a small ferry connects to Iona, the cradle of Christianity in Scotland: Saint Columba founded a monastery there in 563. The restored abbey and white sand beaches make this small island a peaceful and bright place.

Staffa and Fingal’s Cave

This small, uninhabited island is made of basalt columns, like the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. Its Fingal's Cave inspired the composer Mendelssohn. Furthermore, from April to early August, puffins nest on neighboring islands such as Lunga.

Also read our guide to the Giant's Causeway and most beautiful islands of Scotland.

Our 3-day itinerary in Oban

• Day 1: Oban, the distillery, McCaig's Tower and seafood.
• Day 2: Excursion to Mull, Iona and Staffa.
• Day 3: Tobermory or Kerrera Island, then drive to Glencoe.

Finally, Oban combines perfectly with Glencoe, the Loch Lomond and the’Isle of Skye. More information is available on the website of CalMac for the ferries.

Frequently Asked Questions about Oban

How to get to Oban from Glasgow?

Allow approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car via Loch Lomond, or approximately 3 hours by train on a very beautiful line.

Is it possible to visit Mull, Iona and Staffa in one day?

Yes, organized excursions depart from Oban and combine visits to all three islands. However, it's a long day, and landings on Staffa are weather dependent.

What is the best time to go to Oban?

From May to September, there are more ferries and excursions. In addition, it's puffin season, from April to early August.

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