Budget Friendly Accommodation in Oban
If you’re heading off to explore the stunning countryside and fascinating wildlife of the Inner and Outer Hebrides island groups then sailing from Oban Ferry Port makes a convenient start to your holiday. This port has been viewed as the gateway to the Hebrides ever since a steamer was first sailed out of its harbour by David MacBrayne in the late 19th-century and probably for centuries before then.
Once, ferries ran from Oban Docks to just about every Hebridean Island but now they depart mainly for destinations such as Craignure on Mull, Castlebay on Barra, Coll on Tiree and the islands of South Uist, Colonsay and Lismore. All are excellent holiday destinations with good value accommodation to be found. Depending on the route, ferry crossings take from 45 minutes to over five hours. Some routes operate several times a day while others are limited to twice a week.
Oban has plenty of cheap hotels, B&Bs or guesthouses offering economical bed and breakfast rooms. There are hotels with fine sea views along the Esplanade or self-catering chalets and lodges in peaceful countryside settings just outside the town.
Address Ferry Port Terminal :
Oban itself is known as the seafood and sea kayaking capital of Scotland and is the ideal base for exploring the country’s West coast before heading to the Hebrides. While in the town walk up the hill to McCaig’s Tower for good views of Mull in the misty distance before strolling to Dunollie Castle, the ancient seat of the MacDougalls of Lorn. And, of course, a tour of the whisky distillery should be on your itinerary.
Oban Train Station is adjacent to the port which is also served by several bus routes and a taxi rank. There is no terminal parking for foot passengers but plenty of paid car parking in town. The terminal has a small waiting room with toilets and vending machines for snacks. Make sure to check your tickets for check-in times as these vary depending on routes and whether you are a foot or car passenger.
The islands of the Hebrides served by the Oban ferry are popular destinations during the Summer months so to be sure of securing your accommodation at the best price it is advisable to book well in advance.
The large island of Mull has several picturesque villages and a stunning coastline. Its accommodation ranges from budget seafront hostels to self-catering farmhouses and classic Highlands hotels.
The island of Barra has only one of two airports in the world where scheduled flights land on the beach. Stopping to watch planes land is always a highlight of any visit. Barra has family-friendly hotels, b&b’s and hostels near its ferry terminal at Castlebay as well as a good choice of cheap self-catering cottages and guest houses.
The longer ferry journeys to Tiree and South Uist are well rewarded with the beautiful beaches these islands have to offer. Like much of the Scottish Highlands midges can be a real nuisance during the Summer months so make sure to go well prepared.
The nearest train station is Oban Train Station. The rail station is connected with Glasgow Queen Street railway station.
Caledonian MacBrayne Hebridian & Clyde Ferries
Ferries from Oban are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne Hebridian & Clyde Ferries. Ferry services include crossings to the Isle of Iona, Mull, Staffa, Colonsay, Islay, Coll, Tiree, Lismore and the seabird colonies of the Treshnish Isles and also ferry sailings to the Outer Hebrides.
What to do and see
McCaig’s Tower (Top of Oban, Scotland): tower on the hillside called Battery Hill. From the tower you havemagnificent views to the islands of Kerrera, Lismore and Mull. The walk up to it is quite steep.
The Scottish SEA LIFE Sanctuary (Barcaldine, Oban PA371SE, Scotland): located on the shores of picturesque Loch Creran, 10 miles north of Oban. See seals and otters.
Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel (Lochavulin Drive, Oban, Scotland): ruined castle built by the MacDougall lords of Lorn. This old castle is maintained by Historic Scotland, and is open to the public.
Ganavan Sands : lovely place to sit and enjoy the view or have a walk along the sandy beach. Its’ a great place to walk the dogs.