Oban, Scotland, UK

The unofficial capital of the West Highlands, Oban is a small coastal town that has maintained its place as one of Scotland’s most popular resort areas since Victorian times. Perched high above the town on Battery Hill, McCaig’s Tower is a perfect place to start exploring. The well-maintained gardens and spectacular views of Oban are well worth the 144-step climb from the town below, while a leisurely stroll along Corran Esplanade offers a lovely perspective on Oban’s waterfront and nearby Kerrera Island. Scotch drinkers will enjoy a tour and tasting at Oban Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest and smallest distillers, nestled beneath the cliff overlooking the town. Oban also serves as an ideal base for excursions to historic castles and scenic lochs of the Scottish Highlands or to the picturesque shores of the Hebrides, an archipelago comprising hundreds of islands.