Explore the Region
Oban and Seil
The cabin is a 45 minute drive from the resort town of Oban, "The Gateway to the Isles”. From here you can catch the ferry to Kerrera, Lismore, Mull, Coll, Tiree and the Outer Hebridean islands of South Uist and Barra. The islands of Iona, Staffa and Ulva can be accessed via Mull. But there are many other highlights to be enjoyed in and around Oban.
These include taking a walk up to McCaig’s Tower, an interesting piece of architecture in itself, and marvelling at the sweeping views of the town, horseshoe bay and the nearby islands. Or perhaps a visit to the nearby Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds, with its enjoyable walks and views. Alternatively, if the weather is not so good, take an informative tour of the Oban Distillery, with a chance to sample some of the iconic whisky.
A short trip north of Oban, is Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel. Situated on an immense rock, overlooking the Firth of Lorn, stands the remains of one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland, the former stronghold of the MacDougalls. Heading the other way out of Oban, on the A816, the Arduaine Gardens are found a pleasant 35 minutes drive away, featuring bold colours and fragment scents amidst the 20 acres of woodland plants.
Also south of Oban, one of our favourite excursions in the area has been to the village of Easdale on the island of Seil (a 35 minute drive from Oban). From here, a variety of tours are on offer from Seafari, highlights being the opportunity to see whales, basking sharks (both seasonal), dolphins, otters, porpoise, seals, and golden and white tailed sea eagles. And encounter sea-lore and a bumpy ride at the Gulf of Corryvreckan whirlpool (the world’s third largest). It is best to call the tour centre to find out the best time to book, as this tidal phenomenon is not always present! Another firm, Sealife Adventures, operates trips out of Clachan-Seil.
More Places to Visit and the Islands
Finn Falconry, a short drive from Taynuilt, offers hands-on hawk walks and falconry experiences. This place has some great reviews, however booking ahead is essential. Nearby is Cruachan Power Station (a 40 minute drive from Dalavich). Here you can take guided tours of the hydroelectric power plant (booking ahead advised), which is hidden deep in the mountain of Ben Cruachan. A visitor centre and cafe are also well worth a visit, whilst the more energetic can walk up to the dam, or take on the challenging hike of Ben Cruachan itself.
Inveraray, a drive of around an hour from Dalavich, is well worth a visit, featuring its castle (don’t miss the walk, allowing a great view of the town and Loch Fyne), and 19th century jail. A little further up the A83 is the Loch Fyne Oyster Bar. And for one of most stunning drives in the area, you could take a trip to Campbeltown, the long coastal road along the peninsula offering amazing views of first the relatively calm Loch Fyne, and then the wild Atlantic Ocean itself. Or, you could use your stay at the cabin as a base for heading north, to Fort William and the Highlands.
Calmac Ferries serves the islands and is the best place to start if you want to explore further afield, be that for a day trip or longer. We love the ease of the ferries for island hopping. Click HERE for their website and ferry timetables.