We drove into Oban during the bustle of mid-afternoon, just after the misty rain clouds that had pestered us all morning began to clear and the sun emerged, drawing the locals and tourists alike outside to stroll along the esplanade. Oban is an attractive tourist town along the western shore of the Scottish mainland, as well as a busy working port where fishing boats troll the sea alongside passenger ferries running to the Hebridean islands. The town has been dubbed the “gateway to the isles,” and is equal parts functional and scenic. “It is a low-key resort, with a winding promenade lined by gravel beaches, ice-cream stands, fish-and-chip take-away shops, and a surprising diversity of fine restaurants. Wind, boats, gulls, layers of islands (notably Kerrera and Mull looming just offshore), and the promise of a wide-open Atlantic beyond give Oban a rugged charm.”

“Overlooking the town is McCaig’s Tower, a monument resembling the Colosseum in Rome. It was intended as a family memorial and to provide work for local masons. Started in 1897, it remained unfinished when McCaig died in 1902.” St Columba’s, a 20^th century cathedral, stands tall and proud along the esplanade. The town also houses glass-blowers, paper-weight makers, a ceilidh house playing traditional Highland music, an award-winning chocolate shop, and a distillery founded in the 18^th century.

Our B&B was a lovely Victorian home on the hillside overlooking the harbor. The view from our windows was magnificent and our room was furnished with antiques. After a fantastic meal at the Piazza restaurant, we slept soundly in our king-sized sleigh-bed.