Oban, the famous Scottish resort town, is a small town that seems to swell during the summer months. Its horseshoe-shaped bay is protected from the harsh weather by the island of Kerrera. The "Gateway to the Isles" is home to a number of historical sites and scenic sites. Founded around the eighteenth century the town originally home to minor shipbuilding an quarrying. Today it's a bustling port.

One of the main attractions for many people is the Neo-Gothic style St Columba's Cathedral. This Roman Catholic Church is the Seat of the Bishop of Argyll and the Isles. It is also the mother church of the Diocese of Argyll and Isles. Construction began on this building in 1932 but wasn't completed until over 25 years later in 1959.

Another popular stop is the Dusntaffnage castle. This castle lies just outside of Oban on a platform of conglomerate rock and is surrounded by the sea on three sides. Built by the MacDougall lords the current castle was constructed around the middle part of the 13th century even though the area has had a strong hold on it since the seventh century. Today visitors can see the remains of the walls, the round towers and the chapel. A full restoration was planned at one point but was never completed.

Another one of the MacDougall castles that is in the area for visitors is the Dunollie Castle. This small castle located just north of Oban. It also commands a beautiful view of the harbor and isles. This castle was built in the fifteenth century and fell into disrepair not all that long after. By the mid 1700s the castle was in a state of ruins. Visitors can view the remains of this castle today.

Dominating the Oban Skyline is McCaig's tower. This tower is a folly on the hillside in Oban. Built between 1897 and 1902 this large tower was meant to be a lasting monument to John Stuart McCaig and his family who were stonemasons. Today the tower is an empty shell but it provides beautiful views of the islands and the town of Oban. Visitors can also wander the lush gardens and relax around this monument.

An unusual stop for many but the Oban distillery is often a popular stop for many tourists. Built before the town was actually established the Oban distillery has been in business since the late 1700s. This is one of the few times a town was founded after the distillery which makes it unique. The distillery was operated by its founders until 1866 and then has changed hands several times since then. It has been accepting visitors since 1898 and produces 14 year old Scottish whiskey.

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