The Best Oban Walks: Discover Oban by Foot

Nestled amidst the serene Scottish Highlands, Oban, the 'Seafood Capital of Scotland,' offers more than just tantalising flavours. Imagine taking a holiday where each day begins with the soft whisper of the sea breeze and the promise of uncharted paths waiting for your footsteps.

This is Oban - a paradise for walking enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Oban's walking routes provide an enchanting escape into nature, making it the perfect destination for a walking holiday.

Discover the Best Walking Routes

Wander through the captivating town of Oban along a variety of scenic routes that cater to every type of walker. Whether you're in the mood for a quick, picturesque stroll or a longer hike enriched with cultural history, these routes offer stunning views and echoes of ancient stories. 

Here are some of the most popular paths in Oban, ideal for a relaxing day out or an exhilarating excursion.

McCaig's Tower 

Starting at the heart of Oban, this route leads you to the famed tower with stunning views over the town, the Oban Distillery and out towards the islands of Kerrera and Mull. Taking around 30 mins to an hour on mostly pavement, this route is perfect for a shorter, leisurely walk.

Check out directions for the McCaig’s Tower route here.

Pulpit Hill

Offering some of the best panoramic views of Oban Bay and the surrounding islands, this gentle climb is well worth the effort for photographers and nature lovers alike. With a mix of pavement, path and grassy terrains, this hour-long walk provides an excellent opportunity to capture the stunning landscape and serene beauty of the area.

Check out directions to Pulpit Hill here.

Ganavan Sands

Ideal for a peaceful beach walk, this route extends from the town centre to the sandy shores of Ganavan Bay. Enjoy the sound of waves and the soothing sea air along this walk that stretches just over 2 miles along the coastal road.

Dunollie Castle & Grounds

Dunollie Museum, Castle & Grounds offers an enriching experience that's perfect for history enthusiasts or a family outing. The site is an enjoyable 30-minute stroll from the centre of Oban. Walk along the seafront, passing St Columba's Cathedral until you arrive at the War Memorial, which marks the start of Dunollie’s Woodland Trail just over the road. This wooded walk guides you directly to the entrance of Dunollie Museum, Castle, and Grounds.

Once there, explore the historical ruins of the Dunollie Castle and its surrounding grounds through guided tours and participate in children's workshops; an ideal day trip for the whole family.

Venture Beyond: Walks Near Oban

Venture just a short distance from Oban to uncover even more spectacular walking routes. Each path leads to unique landscapes, offering a deeper connection with the rugged and diverse beauty of this part of Scotland. These walks promise unforgettable experiences for those looking to extend their exploration beyond the immediate surroundings of Oban.

Isle of Lismore

Accessible by ferry from Oban, this island features footpaths that criss-cross the island, allowing for many routes. A popular choice is the 2-3 hour Achnacroish and Salen circuit, which traces the southeast and northwest coastlines. This route provides stunning views of historical sites and natural wonders, including a glimpse of the majestic Beinn Sgulaird during the final leg of the journey.

You can find exact directions of this route here.

Taynuilt to Avich Falls 

This easy trail from Taynuilt to Avich Falls is perfect for a woodland adventure, blending serene forest paths with the stunning sights and sounds of Avich Falls. Ideal for a nature-filled day out, especially in autumn, the route typically takes about 1 hour and a half to complete. It's great for hiking, running, or walking, and tends to be quiet, with few other visitors.

Kerrera Island Loop

Accessible by a short ferry ride, this full-day loop around the island of Kerrera is a highlight, featuring rugged landscapes and historic sites like Gylen Castle. Considered moderately challenging, this walk takes around 3 hours to complete.

Why Choose Oban for Your Next Walking Holiday?

Choosing Oban for your walking holiday is choosing a journey through picturesque landscapes filled with rich history and vibrant local culture. The diversity of the terrain offers something for every walker - from serene shores to rugged highlands. 

If you’re an avid outdoor enthusiast, Scotland offers the ultimate adventure with its right to roam, which grants everyone the freedom to access and traverse most land for recreational activities, as long as they do so responsibly. It's important to remember to take responsibility for your actions, respect the interests of others, and care for the environment while enjoying Scotland's great outdoors.

After a day of adventure, the town itself offers a cosy retreat, featuring charming restaurants and a range of accommodation options, from campsites to hotels.

When’s Best to Visit Oban for a Walking Holiday?

Timing your visit right can enhance your walking experience. The best times for pleasant walks are spring and summer, with May to August offering milder weather, blooming nature, and the perfect conditions for walking in Oban. 

During these months, the daylight lasts longer, allowing more time to explore the expansive landscapes upon your walks around Oban. 

These months also offer the best opportunities to spot Oban wildlife, which you are likely to see during your walking holiday in Oban.

Final Thoughts

In Oban, every path tells a story, and every trail invites you to write your own. As you consider your next walking holiday, think of Oban - not just as a destination, but as a journey through Scotland's heart. 

With its myriad of walking routes and the promise of new discoveries, why not let Oban be your next adventure?

How do you get to Oban?

Airtask is here to ensure that you spend less time worrying about getting to Oban and more time exploring the town by foot. 

The western Scottish Highlands boasts some of Europe's most stunning landscapes, but its many small and secluded islands make transportation within the Inner Hebrides a bit tricky. Thankfully, our Hebridean Air Services team provides regular flights linking Oban, Coll, Colonsay, and Tiree, simplifying the journey between these picturesque isles.

These flights can be booked directly with Hebridean Air Services, part of the Airtask Group, here. 

Additionally, for those seeking a more personalised travel experience, charter flights can be arranged by calling 0845 805 7465 or emailing enquiries@hebridean.com.