Rick Steves'
Best of Scotland
Oban
Oban is a great place to stay to explore the Inner Hebrides Islands, and staying there was easily one of the highlights of our trips. Oban, meaning "little bay" in Gaelic, has a Nordic history. The natural beauty surrounding the town is its big draw. There were a number of little restaurants and shops and, most importantly, there are ferries available to the Isle of Mull. Our first night was grey and rainy, but we were rewarded the second day with a beautiful sunrise and sunset. There is a great seaside promenade, connecting the main part of town with the little stretch our hotel was on, that was perfect for a romantic stroll after dinner to watch the sunset. Oban has definitely made our list of places to return to!
Evening over a cloudy Oban.
A peaceful Oban at sunrise on our second morning.
A castle near Oban viewed on the ferry on the way to Iona.
Evening over a cloudy Oban.
Hotel
Our hotel in Oban was probably our favorite of the trip. The group was put into two great bed and breakfasts next door to each other. We got lucky enough to have a cozy room with an amazing view of the water. Breakfast was in a little room at the front with another great view - it was an amazing way to wake up each morning! The inns were within easy walking distance to town along a picturesque waterfront promenade.
Our bed and breakfast in Oban
Our cozy room had chairs near the large window where we relaxed and enjoyed the beautiful water view that we had.
The bed and breakfast had this amazing breakfast room where we got to eat while looking at this amazing view.
Our group was split into two great bed and breakfasts right next door to each other. We all loved our cozy rooms in these comfortable inns.