Oban is justifiably known as the Gateway to the Isles. The town's south pier is the embarkation point for car ferries to Mull, Coll, Tiree, Barra, South Uist, Colonsay, Lismore and Islay. From these islands you can travel further afield to Iona, Staffa and to many of the smaller less well known isles.

And it doesn't stop there. A short distance from the south pier along the Gallanach Road is the slipway for the Kerrera ferry, and a pleasant drive south allows you to take your car, or bike, over the Atlantic by bridge to the Island of Seil.

Ferry Operators

Scotland's largest ferry operator, Caledonian MacBrayne, or CalMac as they are known locally, operate an extensive service from Oban.

Up to the minute information on sailing times, ticket prices and special deals can be obtained from the CalMac website or from their telephone enquiry line on +44 (0) 1475 650100.

Kerrera

Oban's closest island neighbour is Kerrera. The six and a half mile long island can be seen from most parts of the town. Because the island is home to only some 30 to 40 people the roads tend to be quiet, making it an ideal place for a walk or cycle. There are no shops on the island, but there is a tearoom.

The independently run Kerrera ferry is located about a mile south of Oban. The crossing takes only a few minutes and the ferry runs regularly on request throughout the summer, and 6 times a day during the winter.

For those wanting to leave their car on the mainland while enjoying a ferry trip, car parking is easy. Details available here.

Castle Stalker, Appin

Lismore

The Isle of Lismore lies in Loch Linnhe, at the southern end of the Great Glen. Its English name is taken from the Gaelic "Lios Mor", literally translated as Great Garden. And this gives a clue to why the Island is worth a visit. Throughout the year there is an ever-changing display of wild flowers crowding the roadsides and verges. And as if that wasn't enough, the island is also rich in historical sites, wildlife and magnificent views.

With a proper choice of ferries, you can have up to 6 hours ashore, which is an ideal introduction to the island. The ferry from Oban to Achnacroish on the island's south west takes about an hour, and carries a limited number of cars so booking in advance is advisable. Alternatively, leave the car in Oban and take a bike. The island is only about ten miles long and one mile wide so you will still be able to see a great deal.

Mull, Iona and Staffa

For many visitors to Oban, the day trip to Iona is a high point of their holiday. The island from which Columba spread Christianity to Britain and Europe, is best visited by taking an inclusive excursion with a coach operator. (There are many to choose from, and the Oban Tourist Information Centre can provide names, prices, schedules etc.) Most tours include the ferry crossing to Craignure on Mull, a coach journey across the Ross of Mull and then another ferry to Iona where you can visit the Abbey and the burial place of many Scottish Kings. Sea and weather permitting, it is also possible to visit the Island of Staffa with its famous Fingal's Cave.
Click here to find information about accommodation on Mull & Iona

For further information on Mull, Iona and Staffa, visit the Holiday Mull website.

Seil and Easdale

Another rewarding journey takes you south of Oban over the famous "Bridge over the Atlantic" to the Island of Seil, and by boat to Easdale Island with its fascinating history of the Scottish Slate industry.

Following the defeat of the Jacobite Army at Culloden and Bonnie Prince Charlie's subsequent flight from Scotland, the Government banned the use of the Gaelic language and the wearing of tartan and the kilt. The Islanders from Easdale and Seil would change from their traditional garb at the Inn beside the bridge before crossing to the mainland. The inn to this day is still known as 'Tigh an Truish' - "the house of the trousers".

Additional information about Oban and Lorn is available elsewhere on this site, see list on the left of this page, and from the Oban Tourist Information Centre.