Fishing on Mull has long been a draw for visitors to the island. It’s a traditional way of life that has deep island roots, with many of the oldest buildings in Tobermory linked to fishing and the associated commerce that Tobermory’s sheltered harbour facilitated. Visit the harbourfront today and you’ll still find the fisherman’s pier busy with boats as catches are unloaded.

But of course, fishing on Mull isn’t limited to what you can find at sea. The island has some fine river and loch fishing to enjoy too. Guy Bolton is a local expert, providing a guiding service for keen anglers visiting Mull, and in this article he shares five top tips to enjoy the bounty Mull has to offer.

Expert tips for fishing on Mull

1. Dress for the occasion

Make sure you have the right foot wear and clothing for a days’ fishing on Mull, the weather here is very changeable and making sure you are kitted out for the day helps to ensure that you stay warm and dry and you are far more likely then to enjoy your day out.

2. Movement is key

Once you have chose a loch or river to fish, try not to get stuck in the same spot all the day. Move around, up and down the bank in different directions. Trout can be quite nomadic, moving around the loch looking for their next meal. It can be easy to spook them in these remote hill lochs, so stealth and keeping trying different places can help hugely.

3. Flies and lures

Keep changing them don’t thrash away for hours if the fly or lure isn’t working. Keep trying different things with the hope that you will present the fish with something it simply can’t resist.

4. Safe hands

When handling fish you have caught look after them, especially if you are intending returning them to the water. Try to keep them as wet as possible. If the slimy coating of the fish gets damaged or rubbed off too much, it leaves the fish susceptible to infection and disease.

5. Plan ahead

Let people know where you are thinking of going and give them a vague idea of when you are expecting to return home. This way if anything were to happen to you or someone in your party, for example a fall, then help will never be too far away.

Best cottages for fishing on Mull

Armed with the expert advice of Guy Bolton, you’ll soon be on your way to fishing success. And you can even enjoy it from the luxury of your own cottage, with these three perfect properties for fishing on Mull.

The Steading, Loch Assapol

Venture straight to the loch shore from the front door of The Steading and enjoy some fine freshwater loch fishing on Loch Assapol. Then it’s only a short walk home with your catch to cook up a storm in the beautiful dining kitchen, complete with vaulted ceilings and charming beams. A great choice for all the family, with excellent walking, beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife in the area too.

Craig Ben Lodge, Loch Uisg

Treat yourselves to a true Highland escape with a stay at Craig Ben Lodge, complete with a turret and exceptional loch views. The house affords easy access to the sea at Lochbuie and Loch Spelve, with use of a boat available on Loch Uisg too.

Macquarie House, Loch Ba

A stone’s throw from the dramatic freshwater loch, Loch Ba, which leads into Mull’s mountainous interior, Macquarie House is an angler’s delight, with a boat available to hire, permits available for river fishing on the River Ba, and even the chance to catch brown trout on a hill loch nearby. Throw in the close proximity of Loch na Keal for sea fishing, and a week simply won’t feel long enough.

Discover more inspiration for things to do on Mull and make your holiday truly memorable.

The Isle of Mull is famous for its wildlife, but it’s also well regarded for its livestock too. From the Highland cows who so often cause a traffic jam on the Torloisk hill road, to the sheep spotted on the beach, there’s plenty to encounter. The range of breeds raised here can be seen and celebrated each summer too, at the Salen and Bunessan shows. Perhaps one of the most special of all are the Highland ponies that call Killiechronan home.

Here, on the island’s west coast, you can hop into the saddle of the Scottish Highlands and Islands’ traditional native breed and enjoy a ride on the beach or head up into the hills and along forest trails with Mull Pony Trekking. You might even have a close encounter with the island’s famous white-tailed sea eagles, who are undisturbed by the ponies’ presence.

A gentle amble on the lead rein with marvellous views over Loch na Keal and Ben More, or a fast-paced blast through the surf, pony trekking on the Isle of Mull is tailored to your ability. UK native breeds are the order of the day at Mull Pony Trekking, with Highland ponies, some homebred, joined by Shetlands and even a Fell pony too.

Highland ponies have long called the islands home. They were a popular choice with crofters thanks to their stocky build, sure-footedness and great strength. This made them very versatile for tasks on the farm, and even in some cases for logging. The estates also have a long history with the breed, as they make excellent deer ponies to bring animals off the hill after a day’s sporting pursuits. There are still a few working deer ponies on the island to this day.

Whether you are new to horses or a keen rider, an experience with Mull Pony Trekking is not to be missed.

Perhaps best known for our abundant wildlife, white sand beaches and buzzy town of Tobermory, there are also many creatives and artists on Mull. Based throughout the island, many work in home studios and workshops, but there are opportunities to see them under one roof too.

Here’s the lowdown to give you food for thought and inspiration for places to visit and keepsakes to take home from artists on Mull.

Market Treasures

Not limited to locally raised produce, seafood and meat (although these make delicious purchases too), the Tobermory Producer’s Market is also home to a rotation of different artisan makers. Purchase hand-woven tartans here in Tobermory, as well as paintings and artworks, fabrics and gifts and even woodwork from exhibiting makers.

Glorious Galleries

Mull certainly holds its own in the Hebrides when it comes to artists and galleries, and there are a number you can visit during your stay. Find several galleries as you work your way down from Breadalbane Street, calling into An Tobar, and then down to the harbourfront in Tobermory, or hit the road and visit the Tin Shed Gallery on the west coast. There’s even a gallery on Iona!

The Mull and Iona Shop

Another way to get your fix of Hebridean treasures is to pay a virtual visit to the Mull and Iona Shop. Formed in August 2020, the Mull and Iona Shop showcases the unique arts, crafts and local produce out islands have to offer, bringing it all together online and allowing you to shop it all from one website. Most products are handmade by small local artists and are a brilliant way to send a piece of the island to you, wherever you are.

Find more things to do when you visit Mull here.

Winter on a Hebridean island brings many things to mind – dramatic tides rolling onto exposed beaches, cosy nights beside the wood burning stove and wrapping up warm to watch for the Northern Lights. Whether your stay is filled with crisp winter sunshine or atmospheric seasonal storms, here are a few outdoor activities on Mull to enjoy in the quiet winter months.

1 Enjoy Stargazing

The long dark nights that cloak the Hebrides during the winter months offer a superb opportunity for budding astronomers and stargazers alike. Head out on a clear night and see what you can spot.

For the luckiest, cast your gaze northwards and you may even see the dancing colours of the Northern Lights, which are spotted here throughout the winter months when the solar energy is right. Find out more about stargazing on Mull.

2 Fossil Hunting

Not to collect and take home, but certainly to marvel at. On a bright, calm day, there are two paths to pick from.

For the adventurous, the dramatic route from Tiroran to the Fossil Tree (it’s known as the wilderness peninsula for a reason!) at low tide will take your breath away.

For an easier going amble, the circular walk at Ardtun on the Ross of Mull enables you to enjoy the stunning coastal scenery as you scout out fossil leaf beds, which once stood beside a prehistoric lake!

3 Watch for Wildlife

During the winter months, the red deer descend from their home ranges in the hills and are often seen at lower levels, making winter an ideal time to see them up close.

Much of the island’s wildlife remains with us through the winter – the eagles, otters, seals and more call Mull home year-round. And then there are the seasonal visitors, for whom winter signals their season of return – keep an eye out for the rare Great Northern Diver among others.

4 Go Fishing

At this time of year, fisherman’s huts come in especially handy to shelter from the weather if needed. Tackle and Books in Tobermory are the people to ask to secure your permits to fish, with the Mishnish Lochs a pretty spot with shelter if you need it, or the Aros Park lochan, where you can take cover beneath the trees.

5 Bag Castles

Make your first Duart Castle – while it closes its doors to visitors over the winter months, you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the castle as you approach Mull on the Oban to Craignure ferry.

From here, several beautiful castles await, some ornate and privately owned, like Glengorm, which can be seen from a distance on the walk to the Bathing Pools, or Torosay Castle, which peeks through the trees on a coastal walk from Craignure.

Others act as relics of the past, like the 16^th century Aros Castle, where ruins remain statuesque on the hilltop beside Salen Bay and the Aros estuary. Moy Castle, visited by a beautiful coastal path from Lochbuie, is another castle majestic in its age and well worth the walk to.

6 Step Back in Time

Follow coastal paths to ruined villages that serve as a poignant reminder of the Highland Clearances island-wide. From the Ross of Mull, the path to Shiaba is a stunning, windswept coastal walk with pretty beaches to pass by.

Further north, walk the Treshnish Headland for more spectacular sea views, passing the ruined village of Crackaig as you go. From Tobermory, the walk to Ardmore Point is only a few minutes’ drive, where again, ruined cottages pay testament to times past.

Feeling inspired by these winter activities on Mull? Visit the island at its quietest and enjoy an excellent value winter break – choose from one of our cosy cottages available this winter.

Whether you’ve booked a cottage in the island’s wild south west or are planning a day trip from Tobermory, discover 10 reasons to explore the Ross of Mull. From beaches to island hopping, wildlife to rocks, there’s plenty to inspire your next holiday on Mull.

Fidden beach on the Ross of Mull

1 Breath-taking Beaches

From Knockvologan’s sheltered coves, dotted with pink granite outcrops, to the glittering seascapes of Uisken and Ardalanish with views to outlying islands, to little known sandy beaches flanked by hills and reached by the adventurous – the Ross of Mull has it all. There are beaches you can park beside and beaches well off the beaten track. There’s even a beach rumoured to be a favourite among the Royals! Choose your favourites to visit with our guide to beaches on the Ross of Mull.

2 Isle of Iona

No where on Mull is it easier to experience the charming island of Iona, than from a cottage on the Ross of Mull. Whether you pick Pennyghael, Ardtun or even Loch Assapol as your location for the week, the short ferry crossing from Fionnphort to Iona is within easy reach. Iona makes an excellent day trip with a visit to the Abbey, a walk to hear the corncrakes in season, or a stroll to the beautiful Bay at the Back of the Ocean.

Sea eagle dives for fish

3 Wonderful Wildlife

Mull is well known as a wildlife capital and the Ross of Mull is no different. Spend some time exploring loch and land with the chance to encounter otters, white tailed sea eagles, golden eagles, red deer and seals. If you’re particularly lucky, you may even spot dolphins or a porpoise passing through the sea lochs, or escorting a local fishing boat back to shore. There are even cottages where you can watch wildlife from the window, with hen harriers often sighted from Keills Cottage.

4 Locally Landed Seafood

The Ross of Mull forms a narrow peninsula, bordered by sea on both sides. The proximity to the coast means seafood is often top of the menu. Enjoy the locally landed catch in a laid-back setting at the Creel Seafood Bar beside the ferry slipway in Fionnphort, or for fine dining, book a table at Ninth Wave.

Mull’s wilderness peninsula with a waterfall in reverse during high winds

5 Wilderness Peninsula

The beautiful waters of Loch Scridain carve their way along the north side of the Ross. Across the water, the dramatic Ardmeanach peninsula comes into view. This wildly beautiful area is easily reached by taking the road signposted the ‘Scenic Route to Salen’, then bearing off beside Kilfinichen Bay, following singposts for Tiroran and the Burg. From the designated parking area, there are dramatic landscapes to explore, with a day-long hike leading you to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree.

6 Great Geology

This part of Mull has a distinctly different geological makeup to much of the island. Pink granite rocks stand out in the landscape and glow beautifully come sunset. The beaches at Knockvologan and Fidden offer great examples, as does the walk past the disused quarry at Fionnphort. Further along the Ross, you can also explore the shoreline at Ardtun to encounter striking fossil leaf beds.

7 Carsaig Arches

The amazing geology doesn’t stop there, because at Carsaig, arguably one of Mull’s most magnificent natural features awaits – the Carsaig Arches. Reached by a dramatic and nerve-tingling walk along challenging coastline, the route will test your bravery at times, but the reward when you reach the arches is spectacular. Find out more about getting there with our guide to visiting the Carsaig Arches.

8 Crofting Culture

The Ross of Mull has a strong history of crofting. You can still feel the tradition as you explore the local area to this day. Call into the Crofter’s Kitchen at Kintra to stock up on local produce, or take part in a craft workshop at Ardtun’s local willow croft. There’s also the Ross of Mull Historical Centre to explore.

Dramatic basalt columns on Staffa

9 Sailings to Staffa

As well as affording easy access to Iona, you can also sail for Staffa from Fionnphort on the Ross. In early summer, visit to meet the characterful puffins, who will be busy in their burrows raising this year’s young. All year round, boat trips to Staffa promise the magic and drama of experiencing Fingal’s Cave and the dramatic basalt columns the island is famous for.

10 Island Hopping

If visiting Iona and Staffa haven’t quite completed your island-hopping fix, then you can also visit one of Mull’s least explored outlying islands from the Ross of Mull – the Isle of Erraid. At low tide, you can walk across the tidal sandbar on Knockvologan beach to reach Erraid. But do make sure you consult the tide times! Make sure you’re back on Mull before high tide cuts Erraid off. Walk to the island’s disused lighthouse observatory or visit the sandy beach on the island’s south coast.

Inspired to visit the Ross of Mull? Book one of our cottages today and hone in on your perfect spot with our cottage map.

We’ve all had a little more time than usual to explore the local landscapes lately. It’s been no different here on the Isle of Mull, with many of us heading out to enjoy the coastline, woodlands and glens on our doorsteps. Here, we hope to inspire you to explore the island on foot with some of the best walks on the Isle of Mull.

Choose from these five of our favourites to get you started, from hill walks to wildflower meadows and geological wonders.

1 Summit Ben More

Of course, no guide to the best walks on the Isle of Mull would be complete without a nod to the island’s only munro. Ben More makes a fantastic peak to climb starting from the shore of Loch na Keal at Dhiseig.

In fine weather, enjoy clear skies and fantastic views over Mull’s mountainous interior from the top, as well as excellent panoramas across to Iona, Staffa and the Treshnish Isles as you descend. For a more challenging climb, ascend via Beinn Fada.

2 Marvel at the Carsaig Arches

One of Mull’s most photographed features by intrepid walkers, the path to the Carsaig Arches is not for the faint hearted, but promises a breath-taking natural spectacle at the end.

It’s best done in fine weather as you hug the exposed, rocky coastline on the there and back route. You may find sure-footed wild goats and red deer keep you company!

3 Walk among the wildflowers

If you’re staying in a cottage in the north of the island, make a point of planning the Treshnish Point circular walk during your stay. Parking on the west coast of the island, this track leads you around the coastline past pebble beaches, the whisky cave and ruined village of Craickag.

There’s a chance to spot cetaceans off the coast, but what makes this walk most remarkable is the stunning display of wildflowers in early summer.

4 Trek to the Fossil Tree

Keen walkers will relish the opportunity to explore the remote and wild Burg peninsula in the south west of the island.

Parking in the designated area at Tiroran, head out for an all-day hike and experience some of Mull’s most remarkable coastal landscapes and wildlife, as well as the remains of a historic dun.

Consider the tides before setting out to ensure you’ll be able to descend to the Fossil Tree, before retracing your steps.

5 Venture beyond the Three Lochs

The Three Lochs are a regular pausing point for those enjoying the stunning drive through Glen More, but few venture further than the viewpoint. However, the surrounds of this chain of lochs offer excellent walking opportunities.

Enjoy a low level amble around the lochs themselves, keeping your eye out for hen harriers and short eared owls quartering the grassland. For hill walkers, the climb up Ben Fhada, with the optional addition of Creach Beinn, will offer plenty of interest. Although not always a path well trodden, this is undoubtedly one of the best walks on the Isle of Mull with stunning scenery on both routes.

Discover more fantastic walks on Mull in our extensive guide.

An island with mountains, lochs and undulating coastline, Mull is a must-visit for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and beach goers. If you want to do your bit to have a more eco-friendly holiday on Mull and preserve the island’s special landscapes, traditions and culture, try these simple tips.

Greener travel

Mull has miles and miles of walking tracks, from challenging hill climbs to more leisurely forestry tracks and beach walks. Exploring by foot or bike instantly cuts your carbon footprint, with the bonus of having more time to watch for wildlife and take in the views. Find more inspiration for walking routes on Mull.

For longer journeys, why not make use of the island’s well-connected bus service? Even one journey here or there can help achieve a more eco-friendly holiday on Mull.

You could also book a holiday cottage within walking distance of your must-see attractions. Try Canna overlooking the harbour in Tobermory, Calgary Bay Cottage right beside the beach or Ploughman’s Cottage for epic walks to Shiaba and Kilvickeon Beach.

Eco-friendly holiday cottages

We’ve got lots of eco-friendly holiday cottages on Mull, but that doesn’t mean going back to basics for a week.

Pet friendly Carnanamish in Tobermory is a contemporary holiday home for eight with stunning sea views. The sustainable measures here are built in to the fabric of the building. For example, the large windows make the most of solar gain, while the air exchange heat pump offers eco-friendly heating.

Likewise, pet friendly Dragonsfly Rest on the Ross of Mull combines a wood burning stove with solar panels to keep the cottage cosy, with temperature controls on each radiator providing all the modern conveniences too.

Local produce

Guests often ask us about the best places to do your food shopping on Mull. This can be a great way to plan a more eco-friendly holiday on Mull too. We are fortunate to have a wide range of local producers and purveyors to choose from, ranging from the Tobermory Fish Company to Tobermory Bakery, Inverlussa Shellfish to Isle of Mull Cheese.

There’s also the opportunity to stock up from local growers and producers at the regular Producer’s Markets. These take place in Tobermory, Craignure, Pennyghael and Dervaig. Many also sell direct from the farm, so you can indulge in fresh vegetables from Glengorm Gardens, Hebridean hogget and Highland beef from Ardalanish and pork from the Greenleaves Croft in Ardtun.

The Crofter’s Kitchen and Garden at Kintra is also well worth a visit for local produce and eggs in season. And for those who wish to enjoy the local bounty without cooking themselves, place an order with the Lochbuie Larder. Creators of homemade ready meals, many featuring ingredients from the Lochbuie estate, these are a favourite among our guests.

Book your holiday cottage and start planning your visit to Mull today.

The Isle of Mull is one of the easiest islands to reach in the Hebrides, with regular ferries arriving on the island from Oban, Kilchoan and Lochaline on the Scottish mainland. It’s also one of the most exciting to explore, with mountain glens, shell-sand beaches and the vibrant town of Tobermory all to be enjoyed. We’re here to help get you started with 50 of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull. Off we go!

Wildlife

1. Encounter the white-tailed sea eagles
   Explore the coastline for a lucky glimpse as eagles visit their feeding grounds, or book a guided tour with a ranger at Mull Eagle Watch.
2. Scan the shoreline for otters
   These often-elusive creatures could test your patience, but when it pays off, the chance to see otters in the wild is well worth the wait.
3. Watch golden eagles soar over the hills
   The more mountainous parts of the island, like dramatic Glen More, are a good place to look.
4. Look out for deer
   A regular sight, red deer outnumber people on the Isle of Mull by three to one! Fallow deer can also be found in a few parts of the island.
5. Take a wildlife tour 
   A brilliant way to begin the week, giving you plenty of tips and places to visit during the rest of your holiday.
6. Meet the puffins on the Treshnish Isles
   From April to July, land on Lunga to experience these ground-nesting birds close up. Boat trips depart from Tobermory and Ulva Ferry.
7. Go whale watching off Mull’s north coast
   With the chance to see minke whales in the waters around Mull, this boat trip is a must. You could also spot basking sharks and harbour porpoise, too.
8. Spot dolphins from a boat trip to Staffa
   It’s not uncommon for a playful pod of dolphins to accompany your boat as it sails towards Staffa and Fingal’s Cave.
9. Look for the corncake on Iona
   There are around 40 pairs of nesting corncrake on the Isle of Iona, reached via passenger ferry from Fionnphort on Mull.
10. Visit the aquarium
    Pay a visit to Tobermory’s catch-and-release aquarium located in the harbour building at the end of the colourful Main Street.

Walking

1. Walk to Carsaig Arches
   One of the most ambitious walks on the island, cross challenging terrain to reach one of Mull’s greatest natural spectacles.
2. Hike to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree
   A brilliant walk through true wilderness with excellent sea views to accompany you. The Tiroran holiday cottages make an excellent base for this hike.
3. Trek from coast to coast
   Start from the old fishing boats at Salen and traverse the narrowest part of the island to reach the coast of Loch na Keal at Killiechronan.
4. Climb Ben More
   Take the popular path from Dhiseig or tackle the more challenging A’Chioch ridge ascent.
5. Walk to the tidal isle of Erraid
   Low tide exposes a tidal sandbar you can cross to Erraid from Knockvologan beach. Be sure to check tide times for your return journey to ensure you’re not cut off!
6. Explore the ruined village at Shiaba
   Starting from Scoor in south west Mull, navigate the island’s coastal hilltops to reach Shiaba, with superb views out to sea.
7. Take a guided wildlife walk
   Taking things at a slower pace can make it easier to spot Mull’s more elusive wildlife, with experienced guides to help.
8. Climb Dun da Gaoithe
   A dramatic mountain to climb with views that stretch over the sea to the mountains of mainland Scotland.
9. Stretch your legs at Aros Park
   Follow the crashing course of the dramatic waterfalls, take a tranquil walk around the lochan or follow the coastal path back to Tobermory.
10. Walk to a hidden beach
    Head off the beaten track and discover the Isle of Mull’s many remarkable beaches that you can’t see from the roadside.

History & Geology

1. Explore the Mull Museum in Tobermory
   From the island’s volcanic origins to its crofting roots, step back in time at the Mull Museum.
2. Visit the Abbey on Iona
   A short passenger ferry crossing carries you from Fionnphort in south west Mull to the idyllic Isle of Iona.
3. Explore the disused pink granite quarry at Fionnphort
   The pink granite rock is a distinctive feature on the Ross of Mull, with a lovely circular walk offering a glimpse at how the rock was once mined.
4. Visit the Ross of Mull Historical Centre
   Discover the crofting traditions and challenging times of life on the Ross with exhibits, and pick up a guide book for the rest of your stay.
5. Walk around the fossil beds at Ardtun
   A coastal walk with the chance to see columnar basalt and leaf fossils, revealing trees that once stood beside a prehistoric lake.
6. Visit the Macquarie Mausoleum
   Take this gentle walk from Gruline to the Macquarie Mausoleum, which commemorates Sir Lachlan Macquarie who came from Ulva and became Governor of New South Wales.
7. Walk to ruined castles at Aros and Lochbuie
   Visit the ruins on the headland at Aros, just north of Salen Bay, or follow the south coast from Lochbuie to discover Moy Castle.
   
8. Visit the Iron Age fort at Aros
   While you’re in the area, head uphill to the top of Cnoc na Sroine to see the remains of the Iron Age fort.
9. Climb up to crater loch
   Experience Mull’s volcanic past feet first with a climb to the top of the crater loch, Lochan S’Airde Beinn.
10. Step back in time at Duart Castle
    Spot the impressive seat of Clan Maclean from the ferry into Craignure, then pay the castle a visit for a tour.
    

Outdoor & Adventure

1. Go kayaking along the coast
   You can even launch your kayak from the cottage when you stay at Seaview or The Old Church.
2. Wild swim in Calgary Bay
   Discover more wild swimming spots around the island with our guide.
3. Visit Eas Fors waterfall
   This multi-tiered waterfall tumbles down the hillside and into the sea on the island’s west coast.
4. Drive through the Glen More mountains
   Pull in at the Three Lochs viewpoint for an incredibly scenic picnic spot.
5. Walk to the most north easterly point on Mull
   This less-travelled walk takes you to Ardmore Point.
6. Visit MacKinnon’s Cave
   Remember to check the tide times and pack a torch – the cave is bigger than you think!
7. Witness the Dakota memorial
   Walk deep into the heart of Glen Forsa and you’ll pass the memorial to the 1945 Dakota plane crash.
8. Go mountain biking
   There’s no shortage of biking trails on the island, passing through woodland, mountain and coast.
9. Play golf beside the sea
   There is not one but two golf courses on the Isle of Mull – a nine-hole course with views to Ardnamurchan in Tobermory, and a course in Craignure with sea views across to the Morvern hills.
10. Go sea or river fishing
    Pick up a permit for river fishing from Tackle and Books and make your own catch of the day.
    

Family

1. Visit Rainydays soft play in Tobermory
   A great way to entertain the little ones if the weather is wild outside.
2. Walk the Calgary Art in Nature trail
   Think of it like an artistic treasure hunt that leads down to the white sand beach.
3. Visit the gardens at Lip na Cloiche
   Discover driftwood creations, wander through lush, jungle-like planting and enjoy the sea views from this magical garden.
4. See a play at Mull Theatre
   Conveniently located just outside Tobermory, this makes a great addition to your holiday.
5. Go pony trekking along the beach
   Ride through the waves and canter across the beach on surefooted Highland ponies.
6. Make a splash in the pool
   The swimming pool at the Isle of Mull Hotel in Craignure is great for a swim whatever the weather.
7. Experience the Tobermory Highland Games
   A day of bagpipes and competition, this traditional Highland fixture held each July is not one to be missed!
8. Build sandcastles on Knockvologan beach
   One of the most beautiful beaches on the Isle of Mull with gorgeous sandy bays. This one is well worth a visit!
9. Attend a country show at Salen or Bunessan
   See the Isle of Mull’s farmers and crofters turn out in their droves as their livestock compete in the show ring. Find out what’s on.
10. Visit the shipwrecks at Salen
    One of the most iconic locations on Mull, don’t miss a visit to Salen’s old fishing boats as you venture up the east coast.
    

Feeling inspired to visit the Isle of Mull? Book a holiday cottage and get your holiday plans underway!

It’s easy to see how the headland dubbed Mull’s wilderness peninsula earned its name. Venture out on the tidal walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree and you’ll experience the wilds first hand, for while the route is for much of the way straight forward, the views are ruggedly magnificent.

Then, upon reaching the final leg of the outwards journey, the lower level scramble over rocks along the shore and the descent of the metal ladder to get there certainly add to the challenge. One made well worth it by the spectacular waterfalls and 55 million year old fossil tree.

Reaching the start

The walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree begins just beyond Tiroran in south west Mull, so Gardener’s Cottage, Woodland Cottage and The Old Byre make excellent bases from which to begin the hike.

Coming from the Ross of Mull, turn left onto the ‘Scenic Route to Salen’, then a few miles on, take another left signposted to Tiroran and Burg. Continue along the lane until you reach the parking area. Coming from the north, follow the coast road along Loch na Keal heading south. Pass the Gribun cliffs and later, the Tiroran Community Forest before turning right at the signpost for Tiroran and Burg.

The walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree

The walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree follows the southern coastline of the Ardmeanach peninsula for much of the way, before rounding the headland as you approach the tree. Cast your gaze in the direction of loch Scridain, which sits at your side all the way out, and take in the beautiful Ross of Mull scenery beyond. There are eagles to watch, wildlife to spot and – if you’re very lucky – perhaps even a passing pod of dolphins.

The route is easy going to start with, both for the navigator and for the feet. Simply follow the track towards the farm at Burg and then onwards through the woodland and the memorial to Daisy Cheape.

Bearing north to follow the coast round the peninsula, you enter the final stage of the walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree. It’s here that the journey begins to feel more like a hike. Waterfalls punctuate the sea and wilderness views, being all the more atmospheric after a period of rain. When you reach the metal ladder, descend carefully to the rock-strewn shoreline below before reaching the fossil tree.

As you’ll be on the shore, this walk is best planned carefully with the tides to ensure you can actually reach the rocky beach below to explore. Turn away from the sea to face the cliff you just descended and take in the majesty of the fossil tree remnants, dramatically displayed within their basalt lava cast, before returning the way you came.

The walk to MacCulloch’s Fossil Tree will take the best part of the day. Prepare to enjoy some of the most staggering Isle of Mull scenery as you venture there and back.

If you plan to enjoy some of Mull’s best walks, don’t miss our guide to the hike to Carsaig Arches too.

Often heralded as one of the most challenging walks on Mull, a hike to the Carsaig Arches is undeniably also one of the most spectacular. It’s the uncompromising landscape that makes the route so tricky and yet so stunning. The way is punctuated by steep-sided cliffs and sheer drops, as well as being strewn with rocks. But it’s the same landscape that makes the experience so remarkable, even before you reach the arches themselves. For keen walkers, venturing to the Carsaig Arches is highly recommended.

Along the shoreline route, your gaze leads directly out to the sea south of Mull. On a clear day, it can land on neighbouring islands, or simply soak in the steady, rhythmic swell of the waves as they sweep in. Look out for Colonsay and Jura, unmistakable with its towering Paps, on the horizon.

Follow the shoreline west to reach the Carsaig Arches.

It’s not a walk for those not physically prepared to put in the best part of a day navigating difficult ground over uneven, rocky shoreline. Take provisions to keep your energy levels up and stay hydrated. Pull on your sturdiest pair of walking boots, because when you reach the Carsaig Arches and take in the naturally eroded features first-hand, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

The walk to Carsaig Arches on Mull

Your journey begins on foot from the small parking area beside the pier at Carsaig. Getting here in itself is a bit of an adventure. Turning off just outside Pennyghael, follow a narrow lane down hill. You will first pass a waterfall and red phone box before reaching the pier and sea.

Keep an eye out for the seals that often claim these rocks for a spot to slumber. They won’t be the only wildlife you can expect to meet. Wild goats roam the cliffs here, and eagles aren’t uncommon sights overhead.

View of Carsaig Bay at the beginning of the walk.

Head west around Carsaig Bay to begin your journey to the Carsaig Arches. Following the coastline makes navigating reasonably straight forward, which is helpful when the terrain demands more of your attention. Following the shore along enables you to appreciate the magnitude of the cliffs above, where you can still discern the different lava flows that formed much of Mull’s landscape 60 million years ago.

The shoreline around Carsaig has interesting geology.

As you walk, you’ll gain a unique insight into Mull’s intriguing geology. If you’re ready for a break, take some time out to pay closer attention to the rocks. You can even locate the KT boundary in the cliffs along the route. This section in the rock dates back to the event that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.

The route to the Carsaig Arches runs along the shore at the base of these cliffs.

Reaching the Carsaig Arches

When you near Malcolm’s Point, you have almost reached the Carsaig Arches. Just a short distance on from here delivers you an excellent view. Take your time to photograph the arches, eroded by the tides into the rock. They are another example of columnar basalt, which you’ll also see on a voyage to Staffa and Fingal’s Cave.

The spectacular second arch, viewed at a distance.

It is possible to climb up to the second arch, but this comes with significant risks. The way is exposed, the path virtually non-existent and the drops to either side treacherous. For this reason, many prefer to take in the second arch from a safer vantage point, rather than ascending it. Return the way you came with a full camera and an amazing memory from your holiday on Mull. Discover more walks on Mull and check out a map of the route to the Carsaig Arches.

Waves crashing through the arch.

Note: Hill walking has inherent risks and dangers. Conditions change quickly and navigation can be difficult. Always make sure you are well prepared for any conditions and have the correct level of experience for your chosen route.