Photo of Oban

About Oban

A picturesque seaside town on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands, and working fishing port, Oban is also known as the Gateway to the Hebrides and is the main ferry hub for onward journeys to Mull, Coll, Tiree and Iona and more. So it's a busy place year round, with a wide range of visitors, some just passing through, and others staying a while to explore the surrounding beautiful countryside. This means that there's an equally wide range of accommodation on offer here from cheap and cheerful bunkhouses to luxury properties on the seafront. Our pick of the best places to stay in Oban offers something for everyone from smart guesthouses to owner managed traditional properties.

The town is a bustling place, full of some amazing seafood restaurants and old-fashioned oakwood bars. Many of the buildings were built in the 19th-century, and the streets are raised terraces formed from cliffs made in the last Ice Age. Overlooking the town is a vast Romanesque tower, built in the early 20th-century by a local dignitary keen to leave their mark on the town. But rising high above Oban is one of her greatest attractions, Dunstaffnage Castle, built in the 13th-century. Reaching it makes for a lovely walk, particularly in the evening, and you get some gorgeous views. It is also close to the Falls of Lora, a stunning formation of natural beauty. Oban also boasts one of Scotland's oldest whiskey distilleries, founded in 1794; don't miss out on a tour and a tasting!

Many of our picks of the best places to stay in Oban are small family-run affairs housing just a few rooms so in order to ensure a spot, we recommend you plan your trip well in advance.

The best places to stay in Oban

For a Romantic escape

  • Greystones: intimate and romantic, this hotel is ideal for couples. A big baronial house turned B&B, offering 5 spacious minimalist rooms overlooking the sea. Utterly gorgeous views.
  • The Manor House: a listed property offering 11 pretty and traditional rooms set in a beautiful location with stunning views over Oban Bay. It also boasts a great restaurant which showcases the best of the local produce, with an emphasis on the amazing seafood, in its daily changing menus.

For a seafront location

  • Perle Oban Hotel can undoubtedly claim to have one of the best locations in town. It's right on the seafront, and is just a stone's throw from both the railway station and ferry terminal. There are 60 chic rooms and suites littered with luxury amenities and it has a gourmet restaurant serving local seafood. Ideal for exploring the town, or as a stopover if you're on an early ferry.

For an apartment or cottage

  • Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of cottages and apartments in the nearby area for those looking for something self-catered.

Travel information

  • The nearest airport is Glasgow and the Scotrail runs directly to Oban.
  • If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.
  • For full visibility and maximum sunshine, the best time to travel is during the summer months when the temperature averages at around 15 degrees.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Oban

Best Hotels in Oban

  • The Manor House, Argyll Oban (Argyll) 11 rooms from AU$225

    Active Holiday  -  With hiking, biking, and sailing all popular local pursuits - this is a good option for an outdoorsy holiday
    Romantic Break  -  Cosy rooms, roaring fireplaces, fine dining, and wonderful views all set the scene for a romantic hideaway
    Great walks  -  This is stunning walking country and there are trails for short ambles or more serious hikes
    Restaurant  -  Daily changing menu featuring the freshest local ingredients and highlighting the seafood
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Sawdays

    Charming listed property with stunning views over Oban Bay. Cosy individually designed bedrooms are traditional in style with pretty Toile de Jouy wallpaper and fabrics. The restaurant offers a daily changing menu showcasing the best of local ingredients. Great for exploring the West Coast. See More

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  • Perle Oban Hotel Oban (Argyll) 60 rooms from AU$235

    Local exploring  -  A chic base for anyone wanting to explore Scotland's West Coast.
    Great walks  -  There are endless paths to be explored from short strolls to day-long hikes.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Oban Distillery or climb McCaig's Tower for panormic views
    Restaurant  -  1882 specialises in seafood and steak
    RestaurantViewsParking

    A welcome luxury addition to Oban's hotel scene! The recently opened Perle Oban enjoys an enviable harbour-front location and boasts chic rooms and suites with luxury accessories including Nespresso machines for all! The restaurant champions local seafood and steaks. A smart stay on the West Coast. See More

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  • No 26 By The Sea Oban 9 rooms from AU$299

    Romantic Break  -  Claw-foot tubs, bay windows with soaring sea views, rainfall showers & fluffy duvets offer the perfect setting for romance
    Cooking classes  -  Taught by the property's executive chef, intimate 4-course cooking classes are taught at the on-site cookery school
    Back to Nature  -  Super stylish base for exploring the stunning landscapes & impressive wildlife found along the West Coast
    Great walks  -  One of the best ways to explore the dramatic Scottish coastline is on foot; ask for a wide range of trails in the local area
    GardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    Upmarket boutique B&B with fab location on the Oban coast. Carefully curated rooms are the pinnacle of contemporary chic; bold prints & colours give a distinctive feel. Start active days with hearty breakfasts before returning to a fireside lounge or sea-facing terrace. Romantic seaside retreat. See More

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  • Greystones Oban (Argyll) 5 rooms from AU$348

    Views  -  Greystones enjoys simply stunning views from its elevated location, over Oban Bay and beyond
    Sights nearby  -  There are lots of castles and gardens close by to explore
    Great walks  -  There are lots of lovely walks in the surrounding area.
    Restrictions on children  -  No children allowed - this an adults only property
    GardenViewsNo pets

    Grand baronial house turned boutique B&B in the heart of Oban. Five spacious rooms with contemporary interiors and large modern bathrooms. Minimalist feel is complemented with plenty of period features. An intimate, romantic base for exploring Scotland's west coast, with stunning views. See More

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  • No 17 The Promenade Oban (Argyll) 19 rooms from AU$443

    Other Activities  -  Take a boat trip to the picturesque Isle of Mull, exploring its charming villages, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife
    Foodies  -  Indulge in a culinary adventure with farm-to-table dining at Porcini Restaurant, featuring local seafood and seasonal produce
    Total relaxation  -  Escape to a stunning coastal retreat with sweeping views of Oban Bay, perfect for exploring local beaches and woodland walks
    Sights nearby  -  Visit McCaig’s Tower, an iconic landmark offering panoramic views of Oban and the surrounding countryside
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A boutique hotel boasting stylish interiors, on Oban’s picturesque seafront. The rooms feature a mix of contemporary elegance with plush furnishings, rich textures, and tasteful artwork. There's a restaurant serving fabulous local cuisine, and a terrace with salty sea views. A charming coastal stay. See More

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