About Oban & The Highlands Of Scotland

The sweeping mountains of Lorn create the perfect backdrop to the picturesque and bustling fishing port of Oban, unofficial capital of the West Highlands and gateway to the Western Isles. Its thriving commercial centre offers an ideal opportunity for shopping.

From Oban, 93 miles north-west of cosmopolitan Glasgow, ferries sail off to a dozen or more island destinations.  It is a convenient stepping off point for the Isle of Mull. Ferries leave Oban for Islay, Colonsay, Coll, Tiree, Mull, Lismore, Barra and South Uist. Boats advertised around the harbour make regular trips over to Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull. It is also possible to visit Mull, Iona and Staffa on combined ferry and coach day-trips from Oban.

Right by the railway, on the pier is a modern centre aimed at tourists with glass making displays, an audio-visual exhibition of the town's history, souvenir shops and tearooms.

The Oban Distillery Visitor Centre near the North Pier is open Monday to Friday all year round (Saturdays too from Easter to October) for guided tours. The Oban War & Peace Exhibition is housed in the Old Waiting Room on North Pier. You can also visit the cathedral which is located on The Esplanade. The town has a leisure centre with swimming pool, sauna and gymnasium.