Jayne Whyte's Portfolio

Hey loves! So, last weekend was my birthday, and you already know I had to celebrate in true “treat yourself” fashion. Since my first solo trip to the Isle of Mull last week was pure magic, I decided to do a repeat—but this time, with an extra sprinkle of adventure: Tobermory!

I hopped on the early train from Glasgow, with a Greggs in hand looking forward to have a beautiful experience at Oban. The views? Chef’s kiss. Rolling hills, lochs glistening under the Scottish sun (yes, sun! A birthday miracle), and sheep casually judging my existence. By the time I reached Oban, I was buzzing with joy.

Why Oban again?

There’s something magical about returning to a place you once loved—seeing it with bolder eyes, a freer spirit, and a heart ready for new memories. That’s exactly what I did for my 42nd birthday. Instead of a big party, I gifted myself a solo trip back to Oban, the charming “Seafood Capital of Scotland,” and this time, I added a day in Tobermory, the colorful jewel of the Isle of Mull.

I arrived on a crisp morning, the kind where the sky is a soft blue and the breeze carries the promise of adventure. My first stop? Sitting by the Pier, I watched fishermen unload their catch and felt a deep sense of peace. Traveling alone means you notice these little things—the rhythm of a place, the way light dances on the water.

Then, it was time to catch the ferry to Tobermory.

I took the ferry to the Isle of Mull, my heart set on seeing Tobermory. Years back, when the children were a lot smaller, we used to watch the BBC CBEEBIES Balamory- a children’s programme which was filmed in Tobermory. I still remember the theme song like it was yesterday. Also, I had heard about its rainbow-colored houses lining the harbor, but nothing prepared me for how cheerful it felt in person. Truly picturesque! It was like stepping into a postcard.

The ferry to the Isle of Mull was not any different to the one I took the last week. It was breathtaking and better experienced. The sun was all out and the fresh salty air made it all worth it. Arrived the Isle of Mull and took the bus to Tobermory.

It took about 40 minutes to get to Tobermory from the Isle of Mull. Tobermory was just as I had seen in Balmory and the photos on the internet. If you’ve never seen this place, imagine a postcard come to life—rows of brightly painted buildings, a harbor dotted with boats, and the kind of small-town charm that makes you want to quit your job and open a bakery.

I wandered the waterfront, popped into little shops selling handmade crafts and freshly baked shortbread. At a small seafood shack, I tried a haddock and some chips —simple, but so delicious and for a moment, I felt at home in this tiny Scottish town. I wandered, took way too many photos, and even got myself a fridge magnet.

The sun was scorching and I thought I wouldn’t mind an ice-cream. I opted for a whisky and vanilla flavoured ice cream and it was a perfect way to end my stay in Tobermory. Back to the Isle of Mull by bus and then the ferry to Oban.

On arrival at Oban, I checked into the Columba Hotel. Receptionist was quite warm and the room was warmer. Freshened up and was looking ahead to a lovely seafood dinner and to watch the sunset.

For the seafood dinner at The EE USK, I devoured langoustines like I was in a seafood-eating competition, and no, I have no regrets. I had a good laugh when the waiter brought some wipes and an equipment which after I had googled found it to be a lobster cracker. I should add lobster cracking to my resume because I had a fun time cracking. I wondered- too many shells and little meat.

After my adventure with the lobster cracker thingy, I walked around the bay taking more photos, watching the tides and the sun set. It was perfectly beautiful and couldn’t ask for more.

At the end of the day, I felt whole, fulfilled but exhausted.

As I sat on the train back to Glasgow the next morning, I thought about how much this trip had given me. Traveling alone for my birthday wasn’t lonely—it was empowering. I made my own choices, followed my curiosity, and met people I wouldn’t have if I’d been in a group.

Oban and Tobermory had been beautiful before, but this time, they felt like mine. The cliffs, the sea, the colorful houses—they were part of my story now. And as 42 begins, I know this won’t be my last solo adventure.

Here’s to more journeys, more discoveries, and more birthdays spent exactly how I want them.

Final Thoughts

In one month, three trips, two solo trips, and zero regrets. There’s something special about exploring places alone—no compromises, no rush, just you and the adventure.

So, here’s to another year of bold moves, spontaneous trips, and definitely more seafood.

P.S. If you’ve been to Oban, Isle of Mull or Tobermory, drop your fave spots below!