I think of Oban as one of the great undiscovered gems of Scotland. A small town on the coast of Argyll, it/s known as *the gateway to the isles* because it/s the ferry terminal for trips to many Scottish islands. It/s best reached by train from Glasgow; you will oohh and aahh your way for four hours! Last September I spent several days in Oban and took several ferry rides (Caledonian McBrayne ferries are one of the better deals going in Scotland). The most memorable was a trip to the islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa. One word of advice: Learn to love the weather, and don/t let it stop you. Rainy mornings can give way to exquisitely beautiful afternoons, and if it rains in the afternoon...well, you have the sunsets to look forward to!