Columba Hotel Oban Exterior photoColumba Hotel Oban Room photoColumba Hotel Oban Beds photo
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From126US$ /night
Check-in
26Apr2026Select date
Check-out
27Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

The Esplanade, Oban, United Kingdom, PA34 5QD
-
Close to Oban Bay
Great
8.3
7.2
/10
3.6
3.6
/5

Rooms

The Columba Hotel offers 50 well-appointed bedrooms with spectacular views of the harbor, sea, and hills. Various room sizes accommodate different group sizes and needs, ensuring comfort throughout the stay. Each room enhances the experience without compromising the unique Victorian architecture of the hotel.

Dining

Bar Rio, the Italian-themed restaurant at the Columba Hotel, serves a variety of dishes from pastas to gourmet burgers. Breakfast is available from Monday to Saturday, providing a robust start to the day, and Sunday breakfast is extended a little longer. Enjoy meals with picturesque views over the bay, allowing each dining experience to merge culinary delight with stunning scenery.

Meetings and Events

The hotel offers versatile meeting rooms designed to accommodate everything from board meetings to workshops. Columba Hotel provides necessary amenities like projectors, flip chart pads, and free internet access. Packages include flexible catering options, allowing organizers to tailor an event perfectly to their requirements.

Nearby Attractions

The hotel's location allows easy access to attractions such as the Isle of Mull and Dunstaffnage Castle, both rich in culture and history. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Scottish SEA LIFE Sanctuary provides unique insights into marine life. Additionally, visitors can explore Oban's local distilleries, well-known for producing high-quality Scotch whisky.

Parking and Accessibility

Free parking is available on-site, with limited spaces accommodating guests arriving by car. The hotel has a lift for easy access to bedrooms, ensuring convenience for all guests. Public areas are on split levels, offering a unique layout while maintaining accessibility.

Highlights

Location: Near the Isle of Mull and Dunstaffnage Castle

Rooms: 50 beautiful rooms with views of the harbour

Dining: Bar Rio offering Italian cuisine

Meetings: Versatile meeting rooms with catering options

“There's a certain charm to a Victorian-era hotel overlooking Oban Bay; it's wonderfully situated near the harbor and Oban Distillery. I think the on-site Italian restaurant, Bar Rio, is a solid choice for dinner. The family-friendly atmosphere and central location are definite advantages for those wanting to explore the town.”
Hotel logo
Olivia SmithEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type

The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
Single Room Sea View
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Heating
Bathtub
Family Room Sea View
2 persons
380 sq. feet 
2 Double beds
Heating
Bathtub
Standard Single Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet 
1 Single bed
Shower
Heating
Standard Double Room
2 persons
240 sq. feet 
1 Double bed
Heating
Bathtub
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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
Facilities: Great
8.1/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • 24-hour reception
  • No pets allowed
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Tours/Ticket assistance
  • Welcome drink

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Packed lunches
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots
  • Board games
  • Children's menu

Room features

  • Free Wi-Fi in rooms
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
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Dining Onsite

At the Columba Hotel, guests will find a delightful array of dining experiences that celebrate local flavors and global cuisines. With stunning views of Oban's picturesque bay, both Bar Rio and the Alba Restaurant promise memorable meals infused with the essence of Scotland and beyond.
Columba Hotel Oban Restaurant photo
Columba Hotel Oban Restaurant photo
Columba Hotel Oban Restaurant photo

Bar Rio at The Columba Hotel

Italian dining
Ambiance
Nestled in the heart of Oban, Bar Rio offers a family-friendly yet modern setting with romantic touches and breathtaking views over the bay.
Key Offerings
Highlights include classic Italian favorites alongside vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring a culinary experience that caters to diverse palates.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM for lunch and dinner.

Alba Restaurant

Scottish cuisine
Ambiance
The Alba Restaurant presents a cozy atmosphere that celebrates the richness of Scottish culinary traditions, perfect for intimate dinners or family gatherings.
Key Offerings
Featuring the finest local produce and Scotland's oldest sources of single malt Scotch whisky, guests can indulge in dishes that showcase the essence of the region.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Hours vary; please check with the hotel for specific meal times.

Columba Hotel Location

The Esplanade, Oban, United Kingdom, PA34 5QD
Map view
The Esplanade, Oban, United Kingdom, PA34 5QD
Nearby
Stafford St
Oban Distillery
400 ft
Restaurants
Little Bay Cafe
400 ft
On the front at Oban next to sea wall
The Pokey Hat
400 ft
13 Stafford Street
Nories
6.7 mi
86 George Street
Kronks deli
400 ft
7 Stafford Street
Abbie's Cafe
6.5 mi
9 Argyll Street
Oban Seafood Hut.
6.2 mi
Railway Pier
Corryvreckan
6.2 mi
The Waterfront Centre
MacGillivray's Seafood
6.3 mi
57 Shore Street
Local Shellfish
6.2 mi
Calmac Pier
Subway
1200 ft
4 Airds Crescent
Explore Oban
Explore Oban
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Oban Distillery
Oban Distillery
2 minutes' walk
An iconic local distillery offering guided tours and tastings. Sample award-winning whiskies crafted on-site.
Sound of Kerrera
10 minutes' walk
Stunning views of the water and mountains await at this scenic spot. A perfect place for photography enthusiasts.
Hutcheson's Monument
20 minutes' walk
A captivating monument honoring local history with panoramic views over Oban and the surrounding islands.
Ganavan Sands
Ganavan Sands
30 minutes' walk
Beautiful sandy beach ideal for families. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, or a peaceful walk along the shore.
Puffin Dive Centre
Puffin Dive Centre
40 minutes' walk
Thrilling scuba diving experiences await at this nearby center. Rentals and guided tours are available for all levels.
Glencruitten Golf Club
Glencruitten Golf Club
15 minutes' walk
A picturesque 18-hole golf course surrounded by nature. Perfect for avid golfers looking to enjoy a round.
Wellness at Wildwood
10 minutes' walk
Relaxing yoga and wellness sessions offered at this serene studio, ideal for rejuvenation during your stay.
Little Bay Cafe
Little Bay Cafe
2 minutes' walk
Charming spot with a cozy atmosphere serving fresh local seafood and hearty breakfasts. Great for all dietary needs.
The Pokey Hat
The Pokey Hat
2 minutes' walk
Casual eatery known for its delicious seafood dishes and friendly service. Perfect for a relaxing lunch or dinner.
Kronks Deli
2 minutes' walk
A deli featuring homemade sandwiches and local delicacies. Ideal for a quick bite or picnic supplies.
Oban Phoenix Cinema
Oban Phoenix Cinema
135 minutes' walk
Local cinema showcasing a variety of films including new releases and classics. Family-friendly with comfortable seating.
The Jetty Gallery
The Jetty Gallery
130 minutes' walk
Art gallery featuring local artists. A great spot for culture lovers looking to appreciate regional creativity.
Getting around town
City Centre
Oban8 min  ·  2000 ft
Airports
Oban (OBN)14 min  ·  5.8 mi
Colonsay (CSA)99 min  ·  40.9 mi
Train
Oban Train Station4 min  ·  1000 ft
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:00
Check-out
from 07:00-11:00
Guest Parking
No parking available.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the hotel rooms for free.
Breakfast
The hotel offers a full breakfast at the price of GBP12.95 per person per day. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Languages
English, Romanian, Polish, Hindi, Lithuanian
Number of rooms:
43

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Columba Hotel enjoys a superb central location in the heart of Oban, within walking distance of the ferry terminal and shops, and offers spacious rooms, some boasting great views of the harbour. Many guests appreciated the generous room sizes and comfortable beds. The breakfast gets positive mentions for its tasty and filling selection. A few guests have noted that some aspects of the decor appear a little dated.
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Review score
Based on 1520 verified reviews
8.2/10
Great
87%
Recommend
Location
9.6/10
Staff
9.1/10
Breakfast
7.5/10
Facilities
8.1/10
Pros
Helpful staff
Comfortable accommodation
Excellent location
Big room
Cons
Uncomfortable bed
Dated decor
Guest reviews
based on 1520 reviews
8.2/10
based on 1445 reviews
3.5/5
based on 3041 reviews
8.3/10
Catherine from United Kingdom
Couple
Standard Double Room
3 nights in August 2025
|
Reviewed:September 20, 2025
7/10
central locationupdated bathroomcomfortable bedsthin wallsbad coffeeclosed restaurant
The hotel is centrally located near many restaurants. My room was clean. The bathroom seemed updated, especially the shower. Beds and pillows were very comfortable.
The walls seemed thin, and there was little sound proofing. The coffee was not good. I asked to buy Italian coffee from the restaurant, but it was closed.
0 Helpful
Samuel from United Kingdom
Couple
standard double room
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:August 22, 2025
7/10
central locationample parkinglow pressureold bed
the central location provided easy access to local restaurants. parking was directly outside the hotel (it was very convenient).
the shower had very low water pressure so washing hair was difficult. the bed was old and caused discomfort (it sunk in the middle).
0 Helpful
Ethan from United States
Single
Double Room Sea View
3 nights in June 2025
|
Reviewed:July 25, 2025
9/10

Satisfied stay near the harbour

great locationspacious roomnice breakfast
The LOCATION was GREAT. The room was quite spacious with a nice view of the harbour. The breakfast provided a great selection. It was tasty and filling.
0 Helpful
FAQs
About Columba Hotel
What are the check-in and check-out times at Columba Hotel?
Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
How far is Columba Hotel from the Oban Distillery?
Columba Hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Oban Distillery.
What dining options are available at Columba Hotel?
Columba Hotel features an Italian themed restaurant and the Bar Rio, which serves coffee and cocktails.
Is parking available at Columba Hotel?
Complimentary parking is available after 18:00.
What are the room amenities at Columba Hotel?
Rooms include a flat-screen TV, electric kettle, and en suite bathroom with hairdryer.
What nearby restaurants can guests find around Columba Hotel?
Nearby restaurants include Kronks Deli and Dolce Vita, both located 0.5 km away.
What recreational activities are available at Columba Hotel?
Guests can enjoy live sports events at the bar.
How many rooms does Columba Hotel have?
Columba Hotel has 50 well-appointed bedrooms.
What attractions are close to Columba Hotel?
Columba Hotel is located near Dunstaffnage Castle and scenic coastal gardens.
Is breakfast available at Columba Hotel?
Breakfast is available for an additional charge of 12 GBP.
Does Columba Hotel offer free Wi-Fi?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

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Check-in
26Apr2026Select date
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27Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room