The Oban experience

Oban, on the coast adjoining the Scottish Highliands, is the seafood and sea-kayaking capital of Scotland. Plus, thanks to its distilleries, it also shaping up to be a thriving whisky producing area too.

The region, to most, is known as being the gateway to the isles of Mull, Colonsay, Kerrera, Lismore, Islay, Coll and Tiree, as well as the Outer Hebrides. But the town itself is incredibly pretty, rising out of the sea along cobbled roads lined with traditional fishing cottages of all shapes, sizes and colours.

But the big draw to this region is the countryside. Most people come to Oban to hike, bike, kayak or sail. It is not as mountainous as other parts of the highlands, so is better suited to families. With this in mind, there is a Murder Mystery Walking Trail which will have you following clues and riddles along your walk, making it more interesting for little ones.

If you want something a little more energetic, climb Ben Lora. It is just a few miles north of Oban, so no need for motorised transportation and has stunning views over the town and Ardmucknish Bay and out to the Isles of Mull.

Eco-tourism is rapidly developing in the area so you can visit deserted islands, ancient castles and monastries and take boat tours around the coast to try and spot the local wildlife. And there is a lot of wildlife that call this region home, from whales to dolphins, sharks to eagles, it''s all here in one of the richest areas for diversity in marine life.

A great way to see the coastline is by kayak. You will be able to get up close and personal with the wildlife mentioned above but you will also see some of the most picture-perfect visit in the UK.

Cavernous spaces beneath the immense cliffs are typical of the region''s very particular geographical landscape. You can choose to spend just a day at sea, or make you way along the coastline over several days, setting up camp in the open air, under the stars, every night.

If taking to the sea is not your idea of a good time, though, then Dunollie Castle, historically the seat of the MacDougalls of Lorn, is a fascinating place. This small castle is a great place to children to explore local history. Just outside Oban is Dunstaffnage Castle, which is much larger and grander.

When you''re planning on the best time of year to make this trip, it''s important to consider that the while the summers aren''t ever very hot, it''s certainly the best time to visit Oban as the winters are practically arctic, when the town awakens from its winter slumber and blossoms into life.

Article Source: http://www.casinoarticlessite.com

Caron Kristan is a travel expert and freelance writer. They recommend Octopus Travel for Oban hotels.

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