Day 51 – July 9, 2025 – Oban, Scotland

We met up for breakfast around 8 am with plans to go see some castle ruins. We headed to Dunstaffnage Castle first and while there are only ruins, you can still walk through part of them. Built in the 13th century, Dunstaffnage Castle was constructed by the MacDougall clan, descendants of Somerled, a powerful Gaelic-Norse warlord. The castle originally included three round towers, with the gatehouse being added later by the Campbells. A 15th-century hall house, now mostly ruined, stands within the walls and would have served as the main residence. It fell into disuse and partial ruin but remains a symbol of feudal power and Scottish heritage. There was a guy from Kansas City that now lives in Scotland, who had a display of swords and gear worn in battle that was there giving history about the place as well.

We then headed to Dunollie Castle, which is a historic ruin perched on a rocky headland overlooking Oban Bay on Scotland’s west coast. The site of Dunollie has been fortified since at least the 7th century, when it served as a royal stronghold of the Gaelic kingdom of Dál Riata. Archaeological evidence suggests continuous occupation since the Iron Age, making it one of Scotland’s oldest continuously inhabited sites. The current stone structure dates from the 15th century, although earlier wooden forts preceded it. In the 18th century, the family moved into nearby Dunollie House, and the castle was gradually abandoned. Today, only parts of the tower house and curtain wall remain. They also have a museum house that has exhibits of the Clan MacDougall and their rich history. They had a little spot where you could get hot drinks and bites so we all had some hot chocolate.

We headed back into town to find some lunch and chose a place called Markie Dans where John had a tuna dish and I had their delicious cauliflower/coconut lime soup and a chicken sesame bao bun. So far we’ve been pretty pleased with the places we have picked to eat!

After finishing lunch, we headed back to the hotel, regrouped and then headed to the Oban Distillery where the guys each had a flight of whisky and Michelle and I got to play mahjong! We hung out there for about 2 hours and then headed a couple of doors down to The View for dinner. John opted for mussels and I had lentil soup with a side of langustines. The food was wonderful!

After full bellies, we decided to walk to McCaig’s Tower, a cherished public space, offering panoramic views over Oban Bay and the surrounding islands of Kerrera, Lismore, and Mull. The interior has been transformed into a peaceful garden, providing a tranquil retreat for both locals and visitors. Accessible via a steep walk from the town center or by car, the tower stands as a testament to McCaig’s legacy and the town’s rich history. Built between 1895 and 1902 by local banker and philanthropist John Stuart McCaig, the structure was intended both as a lasting monument to his family and as a means to provide winter employment for local stonemasons. McCaig, who admired classical architecture, designed the tower himself, drawing inspiration from the Roman Colosseum. Constructed from Bonawe granite, the circular structure features two tiers of lancet arches—44 on the lower level and 50 on the upper—encompassing a circumference of approximately 200 meters. McCaig’s original vision included a central tower housing a museum and statues of his family members. However, upon his death in 1902, construction ceased, leaving only the outer walls completed. It had some of the most beautiful views and we were there as the sun was setting. It was a steep walk up, but it was worth it!

We headed back down and then back to the hotel where we called it a night. It was a great, but short, trip to Oban and we look forward to heading back to Edinburgh tomorrow before flying out to Dublin on Friday. Enjoyed our stay in Oban!

This was very good! Love the UK’s “bacon” compared to ours!

The big, slightly curving face of rough grey stone is part of the 13th-century ring wall. It’s basically a stone enclosure. The blackish, angled lower section is the battered plinth, a deliberately sloped foundation, which makes the wall harder to climb and better at deflecting missiles. The stone stair leads to the wall-walk.

These are later-lookout/guard points and parapet details that were added and not the original 1200s crenellations.

Unfortunately I cannot remember this gentleman’s name, but he was a wealth of information about the weapons and the history.

Inside the castle courtyard – the building on the left was a built later, while the right side shows the original ring wall curtain.

The defensive side of the inner courtyard where you can still see the original 13th-century curtain wall.

Part of the kitchen area, with hearths/fireplaces or oven bays.

On the wall-walk looking into the courtyard.

One of the residential buildings that was added later.

Parts of the ruined Dunstaffnage Chapel, just a short walk from the castle.

A family memorial. With the help of Chat GPT, I was able to zoom in enough for it to be mostly read – “In Memory of John Bayne Merchant Oban, died 25th January 1818 and Elizabeth Colins his wife, died in Perth 30th January 1824. John and Edward Bayne their sons died (unable to read, but most likely in the 19th century).

The tower house portion of Dunollie Castle.

A passage through the castle wall looking out toward the sea side.

Great pic of the Oban Bay and the grounds of the castle.

Walking around the gardens – beautiful pink lily in bloom!

And we were happy to be able to play Mahjongg!

These were amazing! A bit messy, but worth it!

Now to walk off dinner. Heading to McCaig’s Tower.

One of the views on our way up to the tower.

Yes, I am a child and had to get Vance and his squeaky shoes, lol!