Things to Do in Oban

Famous for its distinctive flavored whiskies and high alcohol content (often bottled at above the minimum 40%), the Ardberg Distillery has been producing whisky since 1815. Despite closing down temporarily in 1981, the distillery reopened in 1997 and has rebuilt its reputation as an innovator in the Scotch whisky scene. Ardberg even hit the headlines in 2011, when it sent a cask of whisky to the International Space Station – an experiment to monitor the effects of zero gravity on whisky maturation.

Today, the Ardberg Distillery is open for guided tours, and visitors can explore the 19th­-century distillery, view the natural water source and sample whiskies in the Chairman’s Study. Also onsite is a holiday cottage, Visitor Centre and the Old Kiln Café.

With a history dating back to 1881 and a reputation for producing some of Scotland’s finest smoky malt whiskies, the Bruichladdich Distillery has long been a popular destination for whiskey lovers. As one of several distilleries on the Isle of Islay, Bruichladdich distinguishes itself by producing gin as well as whiskey, and still using its traditional Victorian­era machinery for milling and mashing.

Regular tours of the Bruichladdich Distillery allow visitors to learn about the historic art of whiskey production, watch the unique process in action and see the giant fermentation vats, before sampling some of the legendary whiskey.

With a history dating back to the early 1800s and a reputation for producing some of Scotland’s most famous malt whiskies, the Laphroaig distillery is a top choice for whisky lovers and one of several renowned distilleries on the Isle of Islay. Laphroaig’s biggest claim to fame is its distinctive single malt whisky, the only one in Scotland to bear the Royal Warrant of the Prince of Wales, and allegedly His Royal Highness’ favorite whisky.

Today, the Laphroaig distillery is open to visitors for tours and tastings, and whisky enthusiasts can learn about the traditional methods, visit the malting floors, mash house and stills, and sample a dram of whisky. There’s also a visitor center and shop, where visitors can learn the history of Laphroaig and purchase whiskies and souvenirs.