Oban, Mull and Lorn

The sweeping mountains of Lorn create the perfect backdrop to the picturesque and bustling town of Oban, unofficial capital of the West Highlands and, as the main port for ferries departing to the Inner Hebrides, the 'Gateway to the Isles'.

Oban is a busy working port, with fishing and pleasure craft rubbing shoulders in the harbour. This thriving community boasts one of the most picturesque settings to be found, with houses clinging to steep hillsides surrounding the calm bay.

A short ferry trip from Oban takes you to one of Scotland's largest islands, the Isle of Mull. Disembarking at Craignure, those with a fascination for history can enjoy ancient Duart Castle - once home to the chief of the Clan MacLean and boasting spectacular views from its battlements - or Torosay Castle, the final destination of Scotland's first island passenger railway. Further west along the coast sits Mull's picturesque capital, Tobermory, with its gaily-painted buildings crowding around a peaceful bay.

From Tobermory, continue travelling west to Dervaig, where the wildlife enthusiast can embark upon sightseeing cruises to the seabird havens of Fingal's Cave on Staffa, and the Treshnish Isles, as well as to the island of Iona, the birthplace of Celtic Christianity.

Oban also provides regular and easy access to the other scattered islands of the Inner Hebrides: Coll, Tiree, Lismore and Kerrera. These are low-lying islands of golden sands and isolated beaches where wildlife lovers can discover the local flora and fauna, or enjoy the many excellent opportunities for surfing and sailing along the coasts of these most accessible, yet remote, of Scottish islands.