Mull may be best known for its wildlife, but there’s plenty to delight the plant lover too, whether keeping your eyes peeled for unusual orchids amid the summer wildflowers, or for rare alpines that grow on remote peaks. And when it comes to Isle of Mull gardens to visit, botanists will be in their element, with not one but several lovely gardens to visit.

Here’s a round-up to leave green-fingered guests feeling inspired, with a special focus on the stunning gardens at Lip na Cloiche, which are no strangers to the pages of many horticultural magazines!

Lip na Cloiche, North West Mull

A celebration of Mull’s microclimate, you’ll be amazed at what you find growing here! Towering echiums more often seen in the Canary Islands pop up throughout this terraced garden, which climbs the steep hillside with borders and banks packed with unusual and beautiful plants, as streams cascade and tumble down to the sea. The likes of agapanthus and hibiscus join the more tropical ranks, which grow surprisingly well in this Hebridean garden.

Throughout the garden, found items are reimagined as plant supports, from bed frames to old forks, while glass fishing floats form a feature beneath the espalier apple trees. In the early summer, Himalayan poppies pop up and adorn the garden in beautiful blues, as well as lemon and pink pastel tones, while the tree echiums send up spires of blooms beloved by the bees as summer continues.

Cottage garden favourites, from geraniums to astrantia and pale blue to deep red hydrangeas, spring up in the borders, with the likes of hellebores, corydalis and euphorbia bringing plenty of early season interest too.

And while flowers have taken centre stage thus far, there’s no forgetting that Lip na Cloiche is also a garden packed with trees. From the paperbark maple to crab apples and ekianthus, trees – often flowering – elegantly punctuate each part of the garden.

Take a peek into the manicured vegetable garden and venture beyond the chicken coops to the hay meadow. Flowing grasses intermix with wildflowers here, offering a lovely spot to sit on a bench and soak up the sea view, surrounded by birds and pollinators.

You can usually find Lucy working in the garden somewhere if you’re keen to learn more about its creation. Entry is by donation and the garden raises funds for local causes each year, often including the RDA. There are stalls of plants for sale to take home with you too if you’ve space in the car!

Other Isle of Mull Gardens to Visit

Torosay Castle Gardens, South East Mull

You’ll need perfect timing to experience this magnificent castle gardens, as it’s only open for the first Sunday of the month during the growing season.

But visit and you’ll be well rewarded, with enchanting Japanese inspired gardens where acers hug the water, magnificent tree ferns line pathways and gorgeous rhododendrons, azaleas, roses and hydrangeas add colour all through the season.

From large landscaped gardens to the ornate terraces with fountains and the walled vegetable garden, there’s plenty to explore.

Ross of Mull Community Garden, South West Mull

A productive community garden project brimming with locally grown fruit and vegetables in season, and also host to community gatherings through the year to seed swap, sell plants and get everyone involved in growing.

Ulva House Garden, Isle of Ulva

Not quite an Isle of Mull garden itself, this one is close by! With towering specimen rhododendrons and azaleas, a walk through this garden traces it back to its roots when it was once the private garden of the big house.

While wild elements have now crept in, the garden remains tended by a team of volunteers and retains plenty of magic. Well worth exploring when you hop across to the Isle of Ulva from Mull’s west coast. A great one to team with a visit to Lip na Cloiche, as Lucy’s garden lies just along the road from the Ulva ferry.

With the Mull Music Festival that kicks off a series of popular events on Mull now behind us (you can catch the next one from the 26^th – 28^th April 2024!), what better time to look ahead to the Isle of Mull events to come this summer.

From sporting fixtures to Highland traditions, there’s plenty for all the family to see and do, so check out these Isle of Mull events to add to your holiday plans.

Ready, set, race

On the 4^th June, Mull will be abuzz with the whirring of wheels as cyclists take to the roads and take on the challenge of the sportive. Covering 87 miles, this is no mean feat and there’s sure to be a celebration on the finish line.

The following month, on the 22^nd July, there’s another challenge to sink your feet into – the Mull Half Marathon!

Game on

One of the year’s most popular of all Isle of Mull events are undoubtedly the Tobermory Highland Games. Taking place on the 20^th July, this is your chance to immerse yourself in Scottish culture, with pipes played, cabers tossed and plenty to whet your tastebuds too.

Show time

Of course, no Highland calendar would be complete without the annual summer show, and on the Isle of Mull, we have two of them! Held on consecutive weeks, first comes the Bunessan Show on the Ross of Mull, followed by the Salen Show on the island’s east coast in early August (4^th and 10^th respectively).

From stock judging to show jumping and fun dog shows to prize winning potatoes, these events have all the hallmarks of a country show. Topped off with local food and drink to delight the taste buds and traditional Highland tunes to set the tone. A great day out for all the family and a tribute to Mull’s crofting ties.

Find out more about Isle of Mull events throughout the year in our events guide here.

Not yet booked a cottage? Find your last minute escape by searching by date here, or bag one of our last minute offers here.

Vitamin sea? Check. Powdery white shell-sand? Check. Crystal-clear waters that turn turquoise in the sunshine? Check, check, check! And then add to that dreamy vista the beautiful drifts of machair that flower in season and are almost exclusively found in the Hebrides, as well as the little-known coves you stumble upon that are off the beaten track (and most tourist maps!).

Mull’s 300 miles of coastline offer the ultimate beach adventure for those who know where to look and with our Isle of Mull beach cottages, it’s easier than ever to dose up on vitamin sea.

Shore Croft, Uisken Beach

Sitting above the sheltered white sands of Uisken beach, decorated with rock pools and off-shore skerries, Shore Croft is a charming stone cottage with an unrivalled view. Soak it up over your morning coffee, expertly made thanks to the cottage’s coffee bean grinder, and then pull on your boots for a walk along the sand, or, for the adventurous, a kayak or wild swim.

Sands Cottage and Calgary Bay Cottage, Calgary Beach

Not one, but two cottages beside Calgary beach, arguably the island’s most photographed thanks to the pretty horseshoe-shaped bay of white shell sand. Sands Cottage sleeps 4 and is pet friendly too, while Calgary Bay Cottage sleeps 6 and is a great choice for a pet free property. Both lie just a stone’s throw across the single-track lane from the beach, promising windswept walks to watch the sunset and the salty air carrying on the sea breeze.

The Bothy, near Laggan Beach at Lochbuie

Not quite immediately on the beach, The Bothy is still pretty close to it, with a sweeping stretch of sand at Laggan beach only a few hundred metres from the front door. These pretty grey sands make a great spot to walk the dogs (this cottage is pet friendly too!), with a mausoleum to discover at one end, or venturing back towards Lochbuie village, the ruins of Moy Castle on the way too.

Whether you’re keen to find an Isle of Mull beach cottage or a superb sea view, discover our range of hand-picked holiday cottages and our local’s guide to the best island beaches.

Feeling inspired to visit the Isle of Mull this Easter? You’re in luck, because for 2023 we still have a handful of gorgeous Easter holiday cottages on the Isle of Mull available over the first two weeks in April. Large houses, cosy cottages, pet friendly properties – read on to discover the perfect last minute holiday cottage on Mull for early April this year.

Pet friendly Willowbank (sleeps 6)

The perfect property for all the family, four-legged-friends included. Willowbank combines lovely modern interiors and appliances with ultra-cosy warm timber beams and a beautifully vaulted ceiling in the living room to create a real wow factor. Excellently located for access to quiet beaches, coastal walks and boat trips to Iona, Willowbank is perfect for those who love all-things outdoors.

Studio Apartment (sleeps 2)

A quaint gem close to the sea in the island’s south east, Studio Apartment sits in a pretty courtyard setting not far from Duart Castle and in some of the best wildlife country on the island. The perfect choice for birdwatchers and those who prefer to feel more remote, with the ease of a pub and shop just a few miles away.

Canna (sleeps 2)

Now reduced by £350 per week, snap up a bargain when you stay at luxury Tobermory cottage Canna this April. Soak up stunning harbour views over the bay to Calve Island and enjoy the island capital’s eateries, coastal walks and boat trips close by.

Pet friendly Gorsten House (sleeps 8)

Come and stay in the home of an artist, where the stunning sea views beyond the window are met with equally imaginative interiors within. A large homestay, Gorsten House is sure to impress, with acres of grounds to explore too.

Pet friendly Kilfinichen House (sleeps 8)

At once grand and yet cosy and inviting, Kilfinichen House sits at the heart of the Kilfinichen Estate with views over Loch Scridain and the surrounding countryside. A prime corner of the island for eagles, otters and abundant wildlife and with Ben More not far, this is the ultimate homestay for adventurers and wildlife lovers.

Don’t miss your chance to find Easter holiday cottages on the Isle of Mull this year. Check out our last minute offers for the latest cottage deals.

Picnic on the beach

Just beside the fisherman’s pier you’ll find a small sandy beach, perfect for the dogs to have a paddle while you enjoy a picnic lunch on the sand, or a bite of fish and chips.

Enjoy a dram

With guided tours around Tobermory’s own distillery at the end of the harbour, followed by a tasting or two.

Jump aboard

With both Staffa Tours and Sealife Mull operating boat trips from the Tobermory pontoons out to sea, and the brilliant Tobermory Bay Tours offering hour-long scenic cruises, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Tobermory from the water.

Go fish!

At the catch-and-release aquarium, with lots of intriguing native creatures of the deep to encounter and touch pool sessions that younger visitors will love to get stuck into.

On the market

Mondays see the return of Tobermory’s take on a farmer’s market, with fresh produce, island meat and fish often available, as well as yummy treats cooked there and then and all manner of gifts and homewares crafted by local makers.

Step back in time

At the Mull Museum, open daily with just a donation required to come and have a look around. Trace your clan’s past, discover the history of Mull and see Tobermory through the centuries.

Culture fix

Venture up the hill to An Tobar to peruse the gallery and enjoy a coffee and cake, perhaps even returning later on to enjoy one of their regular musical and theatrical events.

Raise a glass

Of Tobermory’s own craft beer, brewed on the Main Street at ToBEERmory.

Walk on the wild side

Start your day bright and early and set out with a local wildlife guide, with tours departing from Tobermory to cover all corners of the island and give you great chances of meeting its famed wildlife.

Retail therapy

From locally made soap and pampering bath products, to artefacts made from antler, pretty pottery and even jewellery too, the Main Street offers a wealth of choice from local, independent purveyors.

You’ll often hear Mull referred to as ‘eagle island’ and with good reason! The island is home to thriving populations of both the white-tailed sea eagle and the majestic golden eagle. So, if you’re hoping to encounter eagles on the Isle of Mull, here are five different ways to do it.

From the water

The ever popular boat trip aboard the Lady Jane with Mull Charters offers you the chance to see white-tailed sea eagles up close. Throwing freshy caught fish from the boat, the lucky passengers may see the eagles swoop in to clasp the fish between their talons from the water.

The sound of their wingbeats and sheer size of the eagles encountered at such close quarters makes this an unmissable way to experience eagles on the Isle of Mull.

On land

For those who prefer to keep their feet on terra firma, a land-based wildlife tour should be your first port of call. Local guides know the routines of these majestic birds well and will give you ample opportunity to encounter them during a day’s exploration of the island, whether perched, on the wing or even grappling another eagle in a dramatic descent! They’ll also give you lots of ideas for where to go to improve your chances of seeing eagles on the Isle of Mull during the rest of your stay.

In breeding season

Each year once the white-tailed eagles begin to nest, Mull Eagle Watch opens its doors with guided walks to find out more about the birds and watch the activity on the nest from a responsible distance.

High in the hills

Adventurous souls will often have little trouble encountering eagles on the Isle of Mull. As you climb Mull’s quieter hills and peaks, you’ll often be passing through the large habitats of the more elusive golden eagles, so remember to cast your eyes to the skies for the chance of a sighting. You can find lots of ideas for walking routes on the island (complete with OS maps) in our guide here.

Close to sea level

It will come as little surprise that the white-tailed sea eagles often appear around Mull’s sea lochs. Whether you hunker down in the wildlife hide at Fishnish or spend the day scouting the shores of the island’s west coast, you’re likely to encounter a sea eagle. In the winter, as juveniles have fledged, you may also be lucky enough to see a number gathered together – a spectacular sight for those enjoying a winter break on Mull.

Find out more about the fantastic wildlife and eagles on the Isle of Mull and plan your holiday this year.

Where better to whisk family and friends for a truly magical Christmas one year than one of Tobermory’s finest homes? Oakfield House towers above the town with far reaching views across the Sound of Mull to Calve Island and the Ardnamurchan peninsula, the most westerly part of the Scottish mainland, beyond. And yet, Tobermory’s charming harbour, illuminated each night with reams of festive lights and the glow from the windows of the pubs and restaurants, lies only a short walk down the hill.

Oakfield House wows guests all year round with its spectacular interiors, which preserve the magic of this home’s impressive history, built in 1889 for Tobermory’s Lord Provost, while also providing for all the modern luxuries and conveniences a guest might wish for, with five spacious bedrooms, each served by a private bathroom, not one but two sitting rooms, a magnificent sea view dining room and an impeccably-appointed kitchen in which even the most indulgent of Christmas dinners can be catered for with ease.

Tastefully decorated to offer a wealth of festive cheer, Oakfield House promises a true home from home experience for your loved ones this Christmas. Make it yours this Christmas.

If you’re visiting Mull in our quieter winter months, then you’ve got lots to look forward to. The island’s wildlife highlights will wow year-round, there’ll be snow topping the hills, and, if luck is on your side, you might even be treated to a display of the Northern Lights.

But the island doesn’t simply go to sleep in our quiet season. There’s still plenty to see and do and in this blog, we’ll bring together some of the fabulous festive events you could look forward to on your visit.

Christmas Lights

There are two big switch-on events on the island when the local area is first lit up in twinkling festive lights, one in the north and one in the south.

If you’re staying near Tobermory, then head down to the harbourfront on Saturday 26^th November to see the lights switched on by the clock tower at 7pm. The shops will be open late, serving festive fayre and mulled wine as you browse for Christmas gifts.

For guests in the south of the island, Saturday 3^rd December is the night to remember. Visit the village of Bunessan on Loch na Lathaich and see the Christmas lights illuminated, browse festive stalls, listen to the pipers and carol singers and then soak up the fireworks display!

Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets are a hallmark of the run-up to Christmas on Mull, with fairs taking place in all corners of the island, packed with creative crafts, local produce and fabulously festive food and drink. Take your pick from the Christmas Fayre Extraordinaire in Tobermory, Dervaig Does Christmas and the Salen Christmas Fayre. Find the full details on our events page.

Hogmanay

Usually seen in with fireworks from the harbourfront in Tobermory, Hogmanay is one of Scotland’s most celebrated traditions as we welcome in the New Year. There’ll be plenty of venues to eat, drink and be merry on the island, with many restaurants and hotels offering a special menu for the occasion.

Burns Night

A date to look forward to for guests visiting this January, Burns Night celebrates Scottish poet Robert Burns on the 25^th January each year. The traditional menu features haggis, neeps and tatties, accompanied by a wee dram or two, and entertainment in the form of a toast to the haggis, a toast to the lads and a toast to the lassies. Keep an eye out for Burns Night-inspired menus in the local pubs and restaurants.

Winter Breaks on Mull

Fancy visiting Mull this winter? It’s not too late to book a cottage and take advantage of our great value winter breaks with short stays available too.

Gone are the days when eco friendly holiday cottages meant compromising on comfort and luxury. Quite the opposite, in fact, with modern day technology promising a five-star experience without the carbon footprint. So, if you’re keen to visit the island and do your bit for the planet too, which eco friendly holiday cottages could you choose? Read on and find the perfect bolthole for you.

1 Torr na Locha, Ardtun

Located on a working croft in the rural south west of the island, Torr na Locha is arguably one of the most eco friendly holiday cottages you’ll find on Mull. This characterful stone building uses local timber that would be unsuitable for structural use to fuel the wood burning stove and back boiler, sources its electricity through a supplier that specialises in renewables and tops it up with a solar array that generated 3,650KW in 2022.

Venturing outside the cottage, there’s yet more to appreciate. Tree planting on the croft to support and sustain the temperate ancient Atlantic rainforest of oak, birch, aspen and willow contributes to carbon capture, while the active peatlands to the front of the house have the potential to store 500 times more carbon each year than using the cottage demands.

2 Dragonsfly Rest, Bunessan

Perched above the bay of Loch na Lathaich in the Ross of Mull village of Bunessan, Dragonsfly Rest combines welcoming interiors with eco-conscious additions, like the heating. Warmed by the sun through solar panels in tandem with the wood burning stove that together heat the radiators, guests will feel cosy year-round.

3 Mor Aoibhneas, Bunessan

Making the most of mix-and-match technologies, Mor Aoibhneas uses an air source heat pump to warm its dramatic double-height ground floor living area with cosy underfloor heating. And outside, there’s an electric vehicle charging point to enable you to explore the island with ease, with plans for this to be fully solar powered by summer 2023 too.

Book your holiday cottage on Mull.

Mor Aoibhneas, Bunessan

The most recent addition to the Isle of Mull Cottages range is Mor Aoibhneas (pronounced More Eve-ness). And if you’re wondering what the name of this seriously special homestay for eight means, it translates from Gaelic as ‘Great Joy’. When you turn the key, step inside and relax into this gorgeously designed home for the week, we guarantee that’s exactly what you’ll feel…

Maple Cottage, Kintra

This one’s for those seeking that magical, picture-postcard spot that hasn’t yet been discovered by many. Kintra, tucked away a few miles from Fionnphort on the far south westerly peninsula of Mull, is where you’ll find Maple Cottage, standing sleepily a stone’s throw from the sea, with gorgeous tiny islands in view. Welcoming up to five guests, you’ll soon find yourselves relaxing beside the wood burning stove as you sift through the day’s beachcombed treasures.

Shore Croft, Uisken Beach

This is a cottage that has oodles of atmosphere, whether the skies are clear and the sea is twinkling an irresistible turquoise tone, or the clouds hug the headlands and white horses sweep in up the beach. Cocooned within centuries-old stone walls, you’ll feel truly rested and totally snug at Shore Croft whatever the Hebridean weather brings, with the beach on the doorstep for a lazy stroll in the sunshine or a bracing dash in the showers.

The Whisky Rooms, Tobermory

A chic and contemporary harbourside pad in the island’s vibrant town of Tobermory. Perfect for couple’s wishing to tick off adventure-seeking boat trips to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, bucket list walks to Rubh nan Gall lighthouse and the freshest seafood from pier to plate, perhaps even a sunset gin cruise around Calve Island. It’s all on your doorstep at The Whisky Rooms.

Mucmara Lodge, Dervaig

Luxury on the edge of the wild, Mucmara Lodge beckons with sumptuously modern interiors and a second-to-none location above Loch Cuin, beside the Quinish Estate and with its own private loch in the grounds! The perfect base for outdoorsy friends or families keen to take on the island’s hiking trails, biking routes and wildlife spotting opportunities, plus you can bring your pets too!

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