TROPICAL COLOURS
AT CALGARY BAY ON MULL.
Oban
— is the gateway to the Isles, the largest port in the north west
of Scotland and the ferry port for the Hebrides, yet still has only
a population of 7000 souls. Tours to Mull, lona and Staffa are offered
by Caledonian MacBrayne, Gordon Grant Marine and Bowman’s
Island Tours and between them every possible combination is available.
McCaig’s Tower — "The Crown of Oban" was
built by John Stuart McCaig, a philanthropic banker, between 1895 and
1900. A circular granite screen wall 190 feet in diameter — Scotland's
answer to the Colessium – it dominates the town skyline. The precise
nature of the construction remains a mystery although it did provide
work for redundant stone masons. A 95 foot high central tower and museum
were planned but never built, as McCaig died during the construction.
The edifice to this day remains a feature of the town.
Oban has a distinct Victorian flavour as it encircles the bay which
is protected by Kerrera Island that stretches across the horizon.
There is a ferry to the island from Gallanach (two miles south
of Oban) for the explorers and on the island there are good views, 16th
century Gylen Castle ruins and pleasant little coves and beaches.
On sunny days and at peak season in August the harbour fills with boats
of all sorts and ferries disgorge visitors of many nationalities which
gives the town a continental feel.
Oban is also a market town and has a new Mart on the outskirts of the
town where Spring and Autumn Shows of the Highland Cattle Society are
held. Oban Rare Breeds Park is one of the best attractions in
Scotland and has won major Scottish Awards. The Park is open all year
(Admission charge).
No trip to Oban and the Western Isles would be complete without a trip
to see Scotland’s ‘Water of Life’ being produced. Oban
Distillery opened in 1794 by the Stevenson family is situated just
below McCaig’s Tower, facing the sea. The Visitor Centre is open
all year and although there is a charge for admission this may be set
against any purchase.
A World in Miniature on the north pier is open all year (Admission
charge) and provides over 50 different exhibits of rooms in miniature.
On the Railway Pier next to the picturesque harbour is an excellent
Shopping Centre, a feature of which is the Caithness Glass Shop
with its audio visual presentation on the art of glass making and complete
with a resident engraver. The shop is open all year.
