McCaig's Tower in Oban
Visiting Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and Scottish adventure. The striking McCaig’s Tower overlooks the town, offering panoramic views of the bay and beyond. It is no wonder it is the top thing to do when visiting Oban. This guide will explain the history, hike and how to enjoy this epic tourist attraction.
About McCaig's Tower
Built in the late 19th century by local banker John Stuart McCaig, the granite structure was inspired by Rome’s Colosseum and intended as a monument to his family. Today, it offers visitors spectacular panoramic views of Oban Bay, the nearby islands of Mull and Kerrera, and the surrounding Highlands.
Cost to visit McCaig's Tower
Visiting McCaig’s Tower is completely free. You can enjoy the inside and see epic views of Oban below.
Getting to McCaig's Tower
McCaig’s Tower is in Oban in Scotland. You can get to Oban via car, train or bus. There is also a small airport just north of Oban.
By Car
Once in Oban, you have a few different ways of getting to the tower. There is a small parking lot up Fort William Road and take Deanery Brae uphill and follow the signs to the car park. The lot is quite small so keep that in mind.
By Foot
Most visitors hike up from Oban. This involves some steep hiking and stairs but it is well worth it.
The Hike to McCaig's Tower
The hike up to McCaig’s Tower is about a 10-15 minute hike including walking up some sloped streets and stairs.
Argyll Street
Head to the center of town and walk down Argyll Street toward the Congregational Church. At the end you will see stairs for Jacob’s Ladder
Jacob’s Ladder
This is 144 steps up connecting the lower part of the town to the upper part. There are several viewpoints along the way with benches to rest if needed.
Ardconnel Road
At the top of Jacob’s Ladder you will take a left on Ardconnel Road which goes around a curve. When you get to intersection with Laurel Road make sure to continue right to stay on Ardconnel Road.
Duncraggan Road
Next, you will turn left on Duncraggan Road. You will see McCaig’s Tower to your left. You will walk around it to the front where there is a paved area and the entrance into the site.
You did it- don’t worry the walk down is much easier!
Guide to What to do at McCaig's Tower
Admire the architecture
This landmark is like a mini colosseum. It is really impressive and very cool to walk around the inside. It boasts incredible stone arches from the Bonawe quarries.
Explore the gardens
Inside the circular walls, a peaceful garden provides a quiet place to relax and take in the scenery. There are some benches and lots of open grass.
Admire the Views
On the opposite side of the entrance, there is an opening to a platform that gives panoramic views of of Oban Bay, the nearby islands of Mull and Kerrera, and the surrounding Highlands. It is stunning on clear days.
Plan your trip to Oban
If you haven’t made it to Scotland yet, consider this your inspiration to go. It is beyond beautiful and you will not be disappointed. Oban was just a part of our epic itinerary but definitely a place to visit. It was great for a one day visit and you can definitely enjoy the shore and some of the top tourist things in a day but it would also be a wonderful place to spend more time in. If you come here, please go to McCaig’s Tower- it was definitely a highlight! I hope this guide to visiting helps you on your own visit to Oban!
