iona
Experience the peace and tranquillity of Iona, the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland. Also famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, popularised by the Scottish Colourist artists. A trip to Iona can also be combined with a trip to Staffa to see the amazing basalt rock formations of Fingal's cave, the inspiration for Mendelssohn's Hebridean overture.
Iona is reached from the isle of Mull, either take your car across on the ferry or book an organised tour departing from Oban by ferry and bus.
Suggested lunch stops:
kilmartin
Visit the extraordinary ancient monuments of Kilmartin Glen, with numerous standing stones and burial cairns within a 6 mile radius of Kilmartin. The museum of Kilmartin House offers interactive interpretations of the sights.
Kilmartin is about 30 miles south of Oban.
Suggested lunch stop: Kilmartin Museum Cafe
glencoe
Experience the atmospheric mountains of Glencoe, approached through stunning scenery along Loch Etive, Loch Awe, Glen Orchy and across Rannoch Moor. Uncover the history of the area at Glencoe Visitor Centre before following the coastal road back through Ballachulish and past Castle Stalker.
Glencoe is best experienced driving along the A82 from east to west. The circular route from Oban is about 90 miles in total.
Suggested lunch stops:
tobermory
The pretty village of Tobermory on the isle of Mull is famous for its colourful houses (used for the set in the childrens' TV series Balamory), arranged around a small fishing harbour. Wander around the main street, full of interesting individual shops, and climb up the hill to the upper village for stunning views. There is also a beautiful coastal walk to a lighthouse.
Tobermory can be reached from Oban by public transport. Take the ferry to Mull and then the local bus to Tobermory.
Suggested lunch stops:
Fish and chip van on the quayside
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