Oban Hostels

Bag a bunk bed amid the bobbing fishing boats and crying seagulls of Oban, this year, to enjoy the stepping stone to the Hebridean islands at its most affordable. These stays manage to offer plenty of bang for your buck by stripping away the frills of a conventional hotel and focusing on the basics. That means clean rooms that could sleep up to eight or more, shared self-catering kitchens, WiFi and the occasional free breakfast to set you up for all those puffin safaris in the Atlantic Ocean or jaunts to the historic ruined castle of Dunollie. On top of that, hostels in Oban could have just the touch of authentic Scottish flavour you're looking for – think stone-clad walls and a quaint cottage feel.

What's so great about hostels in Oban

Most travellers choose hostels in Oban over other sorts of stay because of the price. It's no secret that you can bag some seriously wallet-friendly bargains by going for a bunk in a multi-bed room. But choosing to lodge with other people can also be a great way to make friends and mingle. Up in this corner of the wild west coast of Scotland, that might mean a new hiking buddy or someone to accompany you on those ferry trips across to the haunted abbeys and grassy peaks of the Isle of Mull. Couples and twosomes often prefer a little extra space, which can be had by seeking out the private doubles or twins in the low-cost lodges of Oban.

Hostels in Oban also draw the eye because of their hearty, down-to-earth character. The low-key vibes of these no-frills sorts of stay mean you might find yourself sharing travel tales with like-minded backpackers in the outdoor beer garden or cooking meals with strangers in communal kitchens. You can rest assured that most hostels in Oban will cover the basics, too. So, washing machines, wireless Internet and a dedicated reception desk are typically part of the package.

Some high-rated picks among hostels in Oban

No list of the top-rated hostels in Oban could possibly be complete without at least a mention of the Oban Youth Hostel. It pops up just metres from the sloshing waves of Oban waterfront, commanding the promenade with its handsome Victorian veneer. Inside, the five-star-rated service heralds ensuite rooms and grand dining halls, not to mention secure bike storage and lockers. Stay there, and you can fill your Scottish holiday with jaunts to the Oban Distillery – to sample potent single malt whiskies in a factory that dates back to the 1700s – or hops to striking McCaig's Tower – one of the most outlandish 19th-century landmarks in town. Along the esplanade, closer to the heart of Oban, the Corran House Guest House & Hostel has quaint bedrooms and sea views. They are located above a classic pub, so you're never too far from a game of darts and a beer. During the day, a trip to the Oban War & Peace Museum is a top pick. It's right next door, with collections that chronicle local Hebridean heritage and the story of Oban as an unexpected RAF base throughout WWII.