May Madness

May Events Diary
What a busy month May has been so far. As I write this Cologin is enjoying yet another sunny day away from the madness of Oban town center. With two bank holiday weekends in May and several local festivals Oban has been jumping. Events really get going in May and in the last few weeks we’ve witnessed the Oban Sportive cycling event, Three Peaks yacht race, several cruise ships, the Oban and Lorn Drama Festival, Highland and Islands Music and Dance Festival, the Rib Rendezvous, a Viking re-enactment at Dunstaffnage Castle and the return of the ever-popular Ceilidh Nights at The View in Oban.

Several private gardens are now open for charity under the Scotland’s Gardens scheme and the National Trust Garden at Arduaine is looking at its best with fabulous displays of rhododendrons and azaleas. Further south the newly re-opened Kilmartin Museum is wowing visitors and across the water on the Isle of Mull the island’s infamous music festival attracted record crowds. Despite the challenges of travelling on Calmac’s ageing ferry fleet (which means frequent cancellations and timetable changes) the Mull Rugby Sevens event took place this weekend and staying on the sporting theme, Bob MacIntyre managed a top 10 finish for the US PGA tournament at Valhalla putting Oban firmly on the professional golf map! And tonight the last ocean going paddle steamer in Scotland – The PS Waverley – makes her annual return to Oban offering the chance to cruise from Oban on this beautiful and historic vessel.

So, if you’ve not booked a stay at Cologin yet this month then what are you waiting for? May is traditionally one of the best months of the year to visit the west highlands so I hope I haven’t jinxed it for you! Here is the What’s On guide for you to check out upcoming events and festivals.