Categories > Guides and Tips
How to Plan the Perfect Day Trips from Oban [+ 4 Destinations You Must NOT Miss!]
When boredom hits, I can get a bit impulsive–like booking a ferry to the Isle of Lismore on a whim. There, I tackled a walking trail, visited castle ruins, and finished off with a seafood dinner before heading home. If you ask me, that beats staring at my houseplants for company.
Thinking this is absolutely mental? Maybe. But, hey, some of us don’t mind a cracking day trip every now and then. The best part? These adventures aren’t too far from home, so you’ll be just fine.
Curious to know where I’ve been? Read on for a list of my top day trips in Oban. Whether you’re hankering for a bit of history, craving the seaside, or simply want to explore a new side of Oban, there’s something for everyone. So, have a read!
Isle of Mull & Iona
Media credit: isle.of.mull.scotland
Directions
Best for: History buffs, nature lovers, scenic photography, wildlife watches, and coastal walks
Points of interest:
- Mull: Tobermory, Duart Castle, Calgary Bay, Carsaig
- Iona: Iona Abbey, St. Oran’s Chapel & Nunnery Ruins
Travel Details:
- Distance from Oban: 10 miles
- Journey Time: 45 minutes via ferry from Oban to Craignure
- Main Mode of Transportation: Ferry + car, bus, or bike once on Mull
The journey to the Isle of Mull and Iona is half the fun. First things first: catch the ferry from Oban to Craignure, which takes about 45 minutes with stunning scenery along the way to keep you busy.
Bringing a car is quite handy for getting around, but if you don’t have one, renting on Mull is simple enough and works just as well.
Head north to Tobermory for some photo opportunities at the famous rainbow harbourfront. While you’re there, duck into some local cafes for some fresh coffee and homemade cakes.
For some eerie fun, don’t miss the Duart Castle, the ancestral seat of Clan Maclean. It’s like stepping back to the 13th century, carrying a ton of Scottish history and the castle’s dark past.
Then, if you’ve still got some daylight left, hop on a 10-minute ferry to Iona, home to the Iona Abbey, one of Scotland’s oldest religious sites dating back to the 6th century. It’s quiet, serene, and perfect for history enthusiasts.
While you’re there, stroll on over to St. Oran’s Chapel and Nunnery Ruins, built around the 12th century and one of the oldest buildings on Iona.
Round off the day, take a peaceful stroll on the white sand beaches, and take in the magnificent panoramic views. Oh, don’t forget to grab some seafood before heading back. You’ll thank yourself later.
Pro Tip: Ferries can get busy, especially in summer, so book ahead.
Isle of Kerrera
Media credit: walkswithlissy
Directions
Best for: Walkers and hikers, history enthusiasts, and wildlife spotters
Points of interest: Gylen Castle, Kerrera Tea Garden, and Bunkhouse Cafe
Travel Details:
- Distance from Oban: 0.6 miles
- Journey Time: 5 minutes via ferry from Gallanach to the Isle of Kerrera
- Main Mode of Transportation: Ferry + walking
A slower, quieter, and more serene isle, a day at the Isle of Kerrera is ideal if you’re looking for some peace and tranquillity. Heck, the trip is a quick 5-minute ferry from Gallanach, so you’ll be on the isle before you can say “Kerrera”!
Start at the south loop towards Gylen Castle, perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Firth of Forth. At a relaxed pace, it should take about 1.5 hours to trek the roughly 3-mile (5km) trail. Trust me, the sweeping views are worth it.
Then, stop by the Kerrera Tea Garden, a charming spot tucked away on the southern tip, for lunch and a sweet treat. Expect hearty homemade fare, from rich stews to filling bagels.
Continue the walk along the loop the rest of the afternoon, taking in the coastal scenery and spotting wildlife until you reach the ferry point to head back to Oban.
Pro Tip: Although the walk itself is quite gentle, the paths can become boggy after rain, so wearing sturdy shoes is essential.
Inveraray
Media credit: inveraray_castle
Directions
Best for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and foodies
Points of interest: Inveraray Castle, Inveraray Jail, Loch Fyne Shorefront & Pier, Inveraray Bell Tower, and Auchindrain Township
Travel Details:
- Distance from Oban: 38 miles
- Journey Time: 1 hour 15 minutes by car or bus via A85 and A819
- Main Mode of Transportation: Car or bus
Just over an hour away from Oban, Inveraray serves up the perfect mix of history, architecture, and food. It’s the adventure for anyone chasing a day of sightseeing and hearty eats
The first stop on your itinerary should be Inveraray Castle and gardens. Built in the 18th century, its award-winning beauty covers 16 acres of Scottish heritage and flair.
After soaking up the grandeur, take a stroll along the lochside and pier to work up an appetite before picking out a place to have lunch.
Seafood lovers should head straight to Loch Fyne Oyster Bar and Samphire. If comfort food is more your style, Brambles Café & Bistro serves up hearty dishes, while The George Hotel’s Pub has solid pub food.
Once you’ve gotten your fill, head over to the Inveraray Jail, a 19th-century prison that also doubles as a museum. It’s a fascinating (and slightly eerie) way to see what life was like for inmates, complete with courtroom drama and many gruesome tales.
Then, if you’re feeling energetic, climb up 176 spiral steps to the Bell Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Inveraray and Loch Fyne. Trust me, the climb pays off.
Pro Tip: Try out the Escape Room Challenge: Debtors of 1850 at the Inveraray Jail for some interactive fun.
Isle of Lismore
Media credit: scotlandoffthebeatentrack
Directions
Best for: Wildlife watchers, walkers, cyclists, and history lovers
Points of interest: Tirefour Broch, Achinduin Castle Ruins, Heritage Centre & Museum, and Kilchattan Chapel Ruins
Travel Details:
- Distance from Oban: 7 miles
- Journey Time: 50 minutes via ferry from Oban to Achnacroish
- Main Mode of Transportation: Ferry + walking or cycling
A scenic 50-minute passenger ferry ride from Oban to Achnacroish, then a short 10-minute crossing takes you to the Isle of Lismore itself. At only 10 miles long, it’s best enjoyed at a slower pace, either on foot or by bike, to take in its quiet beauty at a chilled pace.
Even then, there’s loads to do. In our opinion, starting with a coastal walk or cycle around Tirefour Beach is the best way to soak up the sun, sea breeze, and views.
Next stop: the Lismore Gaelic Heritage Centre for some history and some brunch and coffee before continuing to the Achinduin Castle, or whatever’s left of it. Constructed in 1290, only the north-east and north-west walls remain perched on a limestone ridge.
Another must-visit on the west side of Lismore is the 13th-century Kilchattan Chapel Ruins. Roofless and time-worn, it’s quite eerie if you ask me, especially with the surrounding graveyard, but fascinating nonetheless.
Pro Tip: If you don’t fancy walking the whole island, you can rent a bike in Oban and take it across to make exploring Lismore a breeze.
