North Pier, Oban, Scotland

Race TBC Leg 8 The Atlantic Homecoming Leg

Located in the heart of the magnificent West Coast of Scotland and home to superb sailing in breathtaking scenery, Oban will welcome the Clipper Race fleet following the North Atlantic crossing from the USA. A brand-new destination on the Clipper Race route map, Oban is a dazzling destination set to put on an incredible stopover in one of the UK’s most beautiful settings.

Meaning ‘little bay’ in Gaelic, Oban is a bustling West Highlands holiday town, and dubbed the ‘seafood capital of Scotland.’ Expect panoramic views over the lochs, mountains and islands, as well as award-winning restaurants to sample fresh crab, lobster and scallops. As a traditional highland town, it’s worth exploring the streets to stumble across quirky shops and cosy cafes, as well as plenty of spots to sample some of the local whiskies, notable from the Oban Distillery.

History enthusiasts will find themselves captivated by Oban's historical landmarks. McCaig's Tower, an iconic granite colosseum, offers panoramic views of the town and its surroundings, and Dunollie Castle is also a must visit. Argyll is known as coastline of the gaels in gaelic with a rich maritime heritage dating back thousands of years.

What’s more, Oban is a gateway to the Hebrides, with the islands of Mull & Iona, Lismore and Kererra are a short ferry-ride away so make for an easy day trip. The Isles are truly stunning, with an abundance of wildlife, and many can be explored by foot or bike.