WEST HIGHLAND LINE

If the seaside is calling to you, Oban is a great destination on the west coast. The islands are a mere ferry hop away and the hinterland has some of the Highlands’ most gorgeous landscapes.

The coastal town is serviced by the West Highland Line – famous as one of the most scenic in Britain. If you want to stop off on the way, there are some picturesque villages and places to hike or just soak in the views, such as Arrochar, Tarbet, Ardlui, Loch Awe, the Falls of Cruachan and Taynuilt.

But there’s also plenty to see and do in Oban, including a malt whisky distillery, a falconry, coastal walks along Ganavan Sands, with views out over the water to the islands of Mull, Lismore and Morven. Another highlight is Mccaig’s Tower, which overlooks the town and was inspired by the grand colosseums of Italy and Greece.

If you have more time, there are some excellent boat trips to see seal colonies and islands, and to the extraordinary Corryvreckan Whirlpool, which is one of the largest permanent whirlpools on earth. It is said that at certain times the roar is so loud that it can be heard ten miles away.