The Manor House

Oban, with its broad sweep of sheltered harbor, is the gateway to the islands—from here ferries ply their way to the isles of Mull, Iona, Coll, Staffa, Tiree, Colonsay, and Lismore. On a quiet street right on the bay, just beyond the bustling ferry terminal, sits The Manor House, built in 1780 as the principal home of the Duke of Argyll’s Oban estate. Today this very nice traditional hotel is the perfect place to stay to enjoy various day trips to the Western Isles. Bedrooms are not large but each is accompanied by a snug bath or shower room, and all are most attractively decorated. It is well worth the few extra pounds to secure a room with a sweeping water view across to Mull, Lismore, and the hills of Morvern. The most popular day trips are to Mull, Staffa, and Iona. Walk to the nearby ferry terminal for the 10 am boat to Mull and pick up a scenic bus tour of the island in Craignure. Alternatively, venture onwards to Iona, the historic cradle of Christianity and burial place of many Scottish kings, including the infamous Macbeth, or to Staffa to explore Fingal’s Cave, immortalized by Mendelssohn. Remember to wear sensible footwear and waterproof clothing for trips to Iona and Staffa. On the mainland Glencoe is a popular destination.