Last month, I had the pleasure of exploring Oban, a charming coastal town in Scotland. Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban sits along the west coast of the country and offers an idyllic setting for anyone seeking a combination of breathtaking views, delicious food, and a chance to explore nearby islands. One of the highlights of my trip was staying in a hotel with a stunning sea view, which truly enhanced the overall experience. If you’re wondering where to stay in Oban with a view of the ocean, I’m here to share my personal experience, and a recommendation that made my stay unforgettable.
1. The Search for the Perfect Hotel
Before arriving in Oban, I spent hours researching potential accommodations. I knew I wanted to be close to the water — ideally, a place where I could look out over the bay first thing in the morning and watch the waves during the day. I also wanted the hotel to be central, within walking distance to the town’s shops, restaurants, and attractions. However, finding the right balance between a great location and a reasonable price can sometimes feel impossible.
After browsing through various websites, I stumbled upon a lovely place called The Royal Hotel. Located right in the heart of Oban, The Royal Hotel offered exactly what I was looking for: a mix of comfort, great service, and incredible views.
2. Booking the Stay
I decided to book through a popular hotel booking platform, Booking.com. The website offered clear pictures, guest reviews, and a simple booking process. I was able to secure a room with a sea view, and it was an easy decision once I saw the fantastic rates for the dates I was looking to stay. The Royal Hotel is a historic property with a blend of modern amenities, and the booking system made the whole experience hassle-free.
The total cost for a three-night stay in one of their sea-view rooms was approximately £330, which I thought was a fair price considering the prime location and the views. This worked out to about £110 per night, which is quite reasonable for a hotel with this kind of setting. The payment process was secure, and I received a confirmation email within minutes.
3. First Impressions of The Royal Hotel
Upon arriving at The Royal Hotel, I immediately felt welcomed by the warm and friendly staff. The reception area had an inviting atmosphere with elegant, traditional decor. After checking in, I was handed the room key and given a brief rundown of the amenities. The hotel’s location was perfect for my trip, just a few minutes’ walk from the Oban Ferry Terminal, making it easy to access ferries to nearby islands like Mull and Iona.
But the real magic began when I entered my room. As soon as I stepped inside, I was blown away by the view. My room faced the Oban Bay, and the sight of the ocean stretching out before me was nothing short of breathtaking. There’s something about the calming sound of the waves combined with the sight of boats gently floating by that made me feel truly relaxed. I knew then that this would be a memorable stay.
4. The Room and Its Amenities
The room itself was a cozy, well-lit space with a classic design. The walls were painted in soft, neutral tones, creating a calm and peaceful ambiance. The bed was large and comfortable, with plenty of fluffy pillows, which made it difficult to leave in the mornings. Large windows allowed natural light to flood the space, and they offered unobstructed views of the harbor and the surrounding hills. It felt like I was staying in a seaside retreat, far removed from the stresses of daily life.
The room had all the necessary amenities, including a flat-screen TV, a well-stocked minibar, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The bathroom was equally comfortable, with modern fixtures, a walk-in shower, and high-quality toiletries. There was also a small seating area near the window, which I loved. It was the perfect spot for enjoying a cup of tea or simply gazing out at the water.
5. Dining with a View
The hotel’s restaurant, The Royal Restaurant, was another highlight of my stay. Located on the ground floor, it had a lovely dining room with panoramic views of Oban Bay. The moment I sat down for my first meal, I was greeted by the friendly staff and handed a menu full of Scottish delicacies. I decided to try some local seafood, and I wasn’t disappointed.
I opted for the Oban Bay Mussels to start, followed by the famous Scottish Salmon, both of which were incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant’s large windows allowed diners to enjoy the view of the harbor while indulging in a delicious meal. The atmosphere was casual yet refined, and I could see why this restaurant is so popular with both locals and tourists.
Breakfast each morning was a treat as well. I chose the full Scottish breakfast on the first day, which included eggs, haggis, sausage, bacon, black pudding, and more. On the second day, I tried something a little lighter — scrambled eggs with smoked salmon and avocado. Both meals were freshly prepared, and the service was excellent.
6. Exploring Oban
One of the best things about staying at The Royal Hotel was its proximity to local attractions. Since it’s located right in the heart of Oban, I was able to explore the town on foot, which made my trip much easier. Oban is small enough to walk around comfortably, and the seaside promenade offered some of the best views of the town.
I spent my first day wandering through the town center, enjoying the local shops, cafes, and art galleries. A visit to McCaig’s Tower, a landmark offering panoramic views of the town and the islands beyond, was a must. From there, I could see the bay, the surrounding hills, and the nearby islands. I also took some time to visit the Oban Distillery, where I learned about the production of Oban whisky and had a tasting session.
7. Sea Views and Day Trips
Oban is known as a gateway to the nearby islands, and during my stay, I took full advantage of the ferry services that depart from the Oban Ferry Terminal. The Royal Hotel’s location made it incredibly convenient to catch a ferry, and I enjoyed day trips to the islands of Mull and Iona. Both islands were beautiful, with rugged landscapes, scenic beaches, and historical sites.
The ferry ride itself was an experience, offering views of the coastline, distant mountains, and small, scattered islands. The sea breeze was invigorating, and the scenery was simply stunning.
8. How to Find More Hotels with Sea Views in Oban
If you’re planning a trip to Oban and want to find other hotels with sea views, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Location is Key: Hotels that are situated along the waterfront or near the harbor generally offer the best views. Check the hotel’s website or booking platform for photos of the view to ensure you’re getting what you expect.
- Booking Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com are all great resources for finding hotels with sea views. They provide guest reviews, photos, and descriptions to help you make an informed decision.
- Peak Season: During peak travel times, such as summer or public holidays, it can be harder to find sea-view rooms. I would recommend booking in advance to secure the best option. Keep an eye on promotions or special offers as well.
- Budget Considerations: Sea-view rooms can sometimes be a bit more expensive, but if you’re willing to spend a little extra, it’s worth it for the incredible experience. Consider how much time you’ll be spending in your room and whether the view is a priority for you.
9. Final Thoughts on Oban and The Royal Hotel
Overall, my stay in Oban was absolutely unforgettable, and The Royal Hotel played a big part in making it such a memorable experience. The sea views, cozy accommodations, excellent food, and central location made it the perfect choice for my trip. If you’re looking to experience the beauty of Oban while staying in comfort and style, I highly recommend booking a room at this hotel. It provided the ideal base for exploring the area, and the views were simply spectacular.
Whether you’re here for a relaxing getaway, an adventure on the nearby islands, or simply to enjoy the stunning scenery, Oban offers something for everyone. And with the right hotel, like The Royal Hotel, your stay can be even more special.
