Oban
Friday, midday
Check into the Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Island (doubles from £275, www.eriska-hotel.co.uk), which sits on its own islet just north of Oban. Recently bought by a Hong Kongbased family-owned business, it’s very much a top-notch five star. Their new Hilltop Reserves are ideal for couples – expect hot tubs with views.
1pm
Head into Oban for remarkable boatfresh seafood from John Ogden’s famous informal stall on the ferry pier. It’s the green and white one, arguably offering the best value seafood in Scotland.
2pm
Not many towns in Scotland boast a whisky distillery just off their main street so nip into Oban Distillery (www.discovering-distilleries.com/ oban) to join one of their informative tours or at least enjoy a dram.
6:11pm
If you hop on the Scotrail train for the scenic ride to Taynuilt, The Taynuilt Etive: Restaurant with Rooms (www.taynuilthotel.co.uk) will reimburse your fare if you book in for dinner. Acclaimed young chef John Mcnulty’s local produce driven creative menu is well worth the short trip. They also stock an excellent selection of gins for an aperitif.
Saturday, 9am
Head to Oban for a seal spotting boat trip with Allan’s Wildlife Trips (www. obanboat.co.uk). You’ve a decent chance of spotting porpoises and dolphins too. Whales are a serious bonus.
Midday
Snare a fish supper at Oban Fish and Chips (www.obanfishandchipshop.co.uk), said to be a favourite of Rick Stein. Savour the views of the isles from a bench on the revamped waterfront.
7pm
Head back to Eriska for dinner at the Deck. They have recently started offering evening meals (they do a decent ribeye). Although they are still finding their feet the views of Loch Creran and the hills are divine.
Sunday, 9am
After a sumptuous two-course breakfast at Eriska (their own smoked salmon is recommended) enjoy a round of golf on their exclusive course or hike around the trails that sneak through their wild woodland. ■
Scotrail (www.scotrail.co.uk) offer trains to Oban from Glasgow and various other West Highland Line stations.