OBAN AND THE MAGICAL ISLE OF MULL BLOG MAY 2022

By Les Snaith

 

(A beautiful rainbow over Lismore Lighthouse as we left Craignure. Picture courtesy long term Railtrail customer and personal friend ©Frank Marshall)

 

Day 1 - After travelling to Glasgow the group came together with their tour manager for the journey on the West Highland Line to Oban passing along the shores of the Clyde then with superb views of Loch's Long, Lomond, Awe and Etive. And so to the Columba Hotel close to the harbour's edge for the next two nights.

 

Day 2 - After a refreshing night's sleep, the group assembled at a leisurely 10am for a guided walking tour of Oban. The tour took in much of the historical aspects of Oban and was mainly on flat ground leaving the climb to view McCaig's Folly for those who wished to do so, later in the day.

 

The highlight for many was a visit to the Oban Distillery where the group was given an informative and entertaining tour followed by a sampling of the produce.

 

Day 3 - Today we crossed the Sound of Mull to Craignure on the Isle of Mull where we joined our coach for the next few days driven by Adrian, our expert driver and guide. We headed north to the beautiful colourful Tobermory, the Capital of Mull. Guests had free time to walk along the harbour and to partake of refreshments before heading back to the Craignure, just a shot distance from the ferry terminal.

 

 

 

Day 4 - Today had an unexpected bonus. The grounds of Duart Castle were closed to the public because of staff shortages but we were advised that our booking would be honoured and that the boss would show us round. So it was a pleasant surprise when we were welcomed then given a guided tour of the castle by none other than Sir Lachlan Maclean, 12^th baronet and 28^th Chief of Clan Maclean. Sir Lachlan was very welcoming and as might be expected, was very informative.

 

Our coach then took us the length of Mull to catch a ferry to Iona where we followed in the footsteps of many pilgrims to visit Iona Abbey.

 

Day 5 - As all good things come to an end, we sailed from Mull back to Oban and then for our various destinations beyond.

 

Click here for more info on our Oban and Mull tour!