Visit Mull in autumn and you can feel change start to creep over the island. It begins on the fringes of September, with each day drawing just a few minutes shorter, and a scattering of bronzed leaves promising the copper carpet to follow.

But then the unmistakable bellows begin; the stags get stuck into their annual rut. Clearings fill with clashing antlers and the glens echo with roars – it’s an undeniable highlight of autumn on Mull.

As the rut gathers pace, so does the onward rush of the season. The air gains a crispness. The villages fill with the faint scent of log smoke rising from chimney pots. Life slows to an altogether gentler pace.

It’s a beautiful time to experience the island. There are many more bright days than you might expect, and some fantastic wildlife to see. Discover the magic of a visit to Mull in autumn.

See the seal pups on the Treshnish Isles

Best known for their population of puffins in summer, the Treshnish Isles are also home to a loveable seal colony. These mammals pup in early September, so autumn offers an excellent time to take a boat trip out to see the pups for yourself.

Experience the red deer rut

Book a holiday cottage close to a red deer habitat and you could find yourself waking up to a front row seat for the rut. Based on the island, we know Mull’s wild landscapes well. Give us a call and we can suggest great places to stay when you visit Mull in autumn.

Walk in the woods

Tucked away on the edge of Tobermory, Aros Park is a hidden gem you’ll be thrilled to discover. A meandering network of paths lead you through deciduous and coniferous woodland, up and down waterfalls and around the glassy lochan. This pool of water reflects the autumn leaves from the boughs that bend over it beautifully. A must for any keen nature photographer if you visit Mull in autumn.

Beach-comb along the bay

As the winds pick up, so do the waves, leaving Mull’s beaches decorated in sea-tossed treasures. Driftwood, shells and all manner of unusual finds are swept up onto the island’s shores, making for excellent beachcombing walks. Ardalanish Bay on the Ross of Mull is a particularly good place to start.

Warm up with a wee dram

Scotland is a land famed for its whisky and Tobermory is home to one of the country’s most charming distilleries, located a stone’s throw from the harbour. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and discover how the whisky is made, before tasting a dram or two.

For those who have a taste for gin, there’s also the Whitetail Distillery at Tiroran. Enjoy a gin and tonic in the café and discover a whole host of gin-related goodies to take home with you.

Feeling inspired to visit Mull in autumn? Take advantage of the more affordable autumn rates and book your holiday cottage today.

Scotland is a land decorated with castles and on the Hebridean Isle of Mull, it’s no different. Defensive structures have long held their place here, from fortified castles keeping watch on headlands to historic, Iron Age brochs. Whether you like castles in full regalia or prefer crumbling ruins, find Isle of Mull castles that fit the bill in our guide.

Step inside Duart Castle

The most famous of Isle of Mull castles, Duart Castle is the only castle on Mull that enables you to step back in time and experience historic castle rooms. Well known as the seat of Clan Maclean, the castle dates back over 700 years. It is often photographed from the ferry, standing proud on the headland at Duart on the approach to Craignure.

The castle is open from April to October. Wander through the Great Hall, complete with beams steeped in history and antique furnishings, then peer inside the State Bedroom and Dressing Room. You’ll see period dress, family portraits and a striking four-poster bed. The Clan Exhibition completes the picture inside, with a 14th-century keep awaiting your discovery in the grounds.

Don’t forget to call into the tea room for a treat while you’re there, or head down to the beach. This is a great idea for things to do on Mull for every generation.

Explore the gardens at Torosay Castle

Torosay Castle is no longer open to the public, but you can visit the gardens on selected Sundays through the summer months. Keep an eye out as you pass Torosay, heading west from Craignure. A roadside sign lets you know when the gardens will be open the following Sunday.

On these days, explore the water, woodland and formal gardens. Enchanting terraces lead you through the more formal sections and there are many iconic plants of Scottish gardens to spot, as well as some more unexpected tropical varieties that enjoy Mull’s mild climate. When the gardens are closed, you can still enjoy the surrounds of Torosay by taking the walk from Craignure.

Delve into the history of Moy Castle

One of the lesser known Isle of Mull castles, Moy Castle is tucked away on the picturesque coastline at Lochbuie. Park at the shore and head left, following the signs that mark the path towards Laggan Sands as you skirt the shoreline. You’ll reach the castle before the beach, so you can bear off to visit the ruins before continuing the walk.

Moy Castle stands in the trees on a small hill right beside the sea, with a burn passing close by. The dappled light through the woodland canopy combined with the sound of the water and waves creates a brilliant atmosphere. The castle itself is now in ruins, although useful information signs guide you through the history of the building and its interior.

Hike to the ruins of Aros Castle

Just as you spot Duart Castle from the ferry, you’ll see Aros Castle from the car. Now reduced to towering ruins, the castle occupies a hilltop overlooking the Aros estuary and sea just north of Salen. We recommend parking safely nearby and enjoying a circular walk around the castle ruins.

Not only will you get up close to this once highly important castle, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot wildlife and wildflowers in the surrounding grass and woodland. This makes the walk around Aros Castle great for historians and naturalists alike.

Watch wildlife around Glengorm Castle

Glengorm Castle arguably takes the crown as the most romantic of all Isle of Mull castles. So much so, in fact, that you can get married there. But it’s the turrets, towers and north coast sea views that really give this castle curb appeal.

Take in the stunning exterior of the castle, then pay a visit to the Glengorm Coffee Shop, housed in what were originally the stables. You could also join a ranger-led walk to explore the estate. Located a scenic, 15-minute drive from Tobermory, this is a great castle to visit when staying in the north of the island for lunch and leisure activities.

Discover more historical attractions on the Isle of Mull.

Which Isle of Mull castles would you like to visit?

Earlier this summer, we asked you to share your very best photos of island beaches on Mull with us over on our Facebook page. What a response we had! It seems we count some talented photographers among our guests, as well as some willing judges – thank you!

We asked you to vote for your favourites and chose a few of our own too. Today, we’re thrilled to share the best photos of island beaches on Mull with you. Sit back, relax and enjoy a dose of vitamin sea…

Photographed by Rob Hague

This picture blew us away with the soft palette of blues and creams on the beach, contrasting the dark, dramatic rocky hills beyond. But don’t be fooled by the boat that you can only reach this beauty by sea. It actually lies just beyond the disused quarry near Fionnphort and its secluded location means you’ll often have the sand to yourselves.

Photographed by Mark Allardice

You won’t be surprised to see Calgary Bay featuring in our top island beaches. This beach is so beautiful it could be lifted from a postcard (it certainly features on many!). In fact, the area as a whole made such a great impression on one visitor, that they took the name home to Canada and the city of Calgary in Alberta gained its name.

Photographed by Nat Buckley

While we may be famed for our white sandy island beaches, we’ve got some cracking grey beaches too. Carsaig is among the most dramatic, with waves unfurling onto a grey beach surrounded by lush and epically steep sloping cliffs.

Photographed by Peter MacInnes

When you visit Mull, make the most of any opportunity to chat to locals (including us!) about their favourite beaches. It can be a brilliant way to uncover quiet spots that are easy to miss but utterly magical, like this cove between Knockvologan and Port nan Ron.

Photographed by Gail Cannon

The sandy coves at Croig in north west Mull are one of the island’s best kept secrets. Discover them first-hand by following the track around the coast from the charming fishing harbour, then dropping down to these tiny coves with water that is temptingly clear.

Photographed by Elspeth Valentine

Knockvologan is arguably one of the most beautiful of all island beaches on Mull. With its white shell sand, dazzlingly clear water and striking pink granite boulders, this is a great spot for a picnic and a paddle. But don’t stop here, because if you follow the coast round you’ll find even more enchanting secret coves. You may even have them all to yourself!

Photographed by Stephen Docherty

The silver sands of Ardalanish Bay really do sparkle in this sweeping panorama. Sheltered by rocky headlands, this is a great beach for dog walking or taking a dip, as well as beach-combing or rock-pooling. Visit in summer for a sensational display of wildflowers in the surrounding machair too – a real jewel of the Hebrides.

Photographed by Chloe Cartwright

We’ll let you guess which of the island beaches this photo was taken on. The flush of pink sea thrift flowers are a sign of summer’s arrival on Mull. See if you can spot them blooming on the rocks next time you’re here.

Photographed by Carl Gee

For our final island beaches photo we venture down to the Ross of Mull, where Carl Gee captured this stunning sunset over Fidden Beach.

Craving the feeling of sand beneath your toes and the scent of salt in the air? Book one of our coastal cottages and stay right beside the sea.

Which of these island beaches is your favourite?

Visitors to Mull are spoiled for choice for coastal and beach walks. From the dramatic and challenging route to the Carsaig Arches, to the tidal crossing to the Isle of Erraid, there’s a seaside stroll to suit even the most adventurous. Here, we’re sharing seven easy Isle of Mull beach walks, perfect for spending an afternoon by the sea.

Calgary, North West Mull

Arguably Mull’s most popular beach, Calgary Bay lies on the north-west coast, sheltered by dramatic headlands that slope down steeply towards the sea. The white shell-sand glistens in the sun while the crystal clear waters lap on shore. One of the gentlest beach walks, simply follow the curve of the horseshoe bay to the far side, where a burn runs into the sea. Keep an eye out for sailing boats passing on the horizon.

Langamull, North West Mull

You’ll need to put in a 20-minute walk through woodland to reach this secluded beach, but Langamull is well worth it when you do. Look out for living treasures in the rock pools or enjoy a swim in the clear waters. Quieter than Calgary, but still with plenty of charm, Langamull makes a lovely afternoon excursion in the north of the island.

Port an Tobire, East Mull

A wee gem on the mainly rocky east coast, this beach is tucked beneath the ruins of Aros Castle, just outside Salen. Part sand, part shingle, you can enjoy a stroll with views that stretch down the Sound of Mull.

Laggan Sands, South East Mull

Park beside the glittering waves at Loch Buie and pop into The Old Post Office for drinks and nibbles to take to the beach. The route to Laggan Sands stretches along the shore, before you reach the grey sand bay.

Throw out a rug, unpack the picnic and enjoy the coastal breeze as you gaze out over the Atlantic ocean. It’s a lovely reward for the scenic beach walk to get there.

Ardalanish, South West Mull

While the nearby beaches at Uisken and Fidden are very popular, if you’re staying on the Ross, Ardalanish is another must-visit for beach walks. This is one of the island’s larger bays, with white sands that sweep round, making for lovely coastal walks. In the summer months, the machair comes into bloom, giving you even more to discover.

Market Bay, South West Mull

Unlike many of Mull’s beaches that enable you to park close to the sand, Market Bay demands a fair walk to get there. But what a reward when you do! This white sand bay is snuggled within rocky outcrops, creating a real sense of privacy. Azure waters lap the shore with fantastic views out to sea. Little wonder this beach is rumoured to be popular with the Royals, too!

Traigh na Cille, West Mull

One of Mull’s more dramatic beaches, Traigh na Cille features striking grey and black sand. Facing west, this beach is brilliant for short walks at sunset. Keep an eye on the weather. Sunsets here are particularly special when the fading light dances through a lightly cloud-dappled sky.

Want to wake to views of the water and breathe in the fresh sea air every morning of your holiday? Check out these stunning Mull holiday cottages by the sea.

With wild scenery, pristine beaches and food and drink that promises a taste of the Hebrides, Mull makes the perfect choice for a special occasion getaway. To help you plan the perfect trip, we’re sharing some of our most stunning Isle of Mull holiday houses with you.

Little or large, in quaint villages or set on the shore, discover the best cottage for you here. And with pet-friendly properties included, you can even bring your four-legged friends too!

Oakfield House

Where better to celebrate a special occasion than in the finest house in Tobermory? That’s the title Oakfield House has earned and one look beyond the door is all it takes to confirm it.

This majestic house is filled with period features and antique furnishings, complemented by modern touches like the Everhot, Aga-style cooker and five beautifully finished bathrooms. But perhaps the most special feature of this holiday home are the superb sea views…

Cherrybank

Cherrybank combines the charm of a traditional stone cottage with the luxuries of a modern conversion, made even more magical by the expansive sea views. Perched on the shore in the scenic south west of Mull, hidden coves, intriguing geology and a wealth of wildlife are all close by, with the brilliant Ninth Wave restaurant just a short drive for a special tasting menu dinner.

Discover five more cottages by the sea.

Tilliepestle

Tilliepestle is one of our most sought-after Isle of Mull holiday houses and it’s easy to see why! Stunning stonework and timber beams give this house oodles of old-island charm, enhanced by its setting in the quaint village of Dervaig, across the road from the island’s oldest inn.

The sheltered balcony fast becomes a favourite spot for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine, while your dogs play in the garden below.

Gorsten House

One of the most striking Isle of Mull holiday houses, Gorsten House occupies a prime position close to the water. The picture windows invite you to soak up the setting and spot wildlife from the house come rain or shine.

Inside, guests will be delighted by the modern and playful interiors, crafted by owner and world-renowned artist Charles Avery. The views are equally phenomenal, reaching round to Duart Castle and the lighthouse on Lismore Island.

Auchnacraig Lodge

A beautifully presented wooden lodge, Auchnacraig Lodge nestles effortlessly into its rural surroundings at Grasspoint. The open-plan kitchen is beautifully appointed, as is the living area with a character stone chimney and fire.

But while the interiors are luxurious, it’s what lies beyond the door that makes this cottage so special. Set above the shore at Grasspoint, the area is home to birds of prey and lots of wildlife. There are also excellent coastal walks and views to the Nevis mountain range in the distance.

The Potting Shed

Fancy staying in a traditional island village but want to check into a cottage that is quirky and unique? The Potting Shed could be just the place for you.

This luxurious bolthole for two includes a clawfoot bath atmospherically framed by tin-clad walls, as well as a master bed with an ornately carved headboard. Every part of the property has been finished to the highest – and richest – detail, promising a luxurious and memorable stay.

Craig Ben Lodge

Another of our pet-friendly Isle of Mull holiday houses, Craig Ben Lodge offers a taste of the country house lifestyle in a loch shore location. Roaring fires, wood panelling and even a turret make this baronial house feel truly special.

With room for 10 plus three of your four-legged friends, it’s a place for the entire family to gather. Picnic on the shore, row a boat over the loch or enjoy a banquet by the fire… This house really does have it all.

Browse more large Isle of Mull holiday houses.

Columba Apartment

Experience the charms of Mull’s colourful harbour town, indulge in the local restaurants and set sail on exciting boat trips. In an elevated position above the colourful Main Street, Columba Apartment will wow guests with its fantastic sea views over Tobermory Bay and out towards Calve Island.

Set in a Victorian house, a free-standing bath tub, king-sized bed and collection of antique furniture add a luxury finish to the apartment. Patio doors open into the garden, where chairs beckon for you to take in the view.

The Old Little Theatre

Often applauded for its luxurious finish, The Old Little Theatre is the perfect choice for two. Packed with drama, this red-roofed cottage was once recorded as the world’s smallest professional theatre.

Today, the cottage delights guests with luxurious and theatrical touches, from the wallpaper to the soft furnishings and the sitting area on the stage, to the theatre seats in the entrance hall.

Book your Isle of Mull holiday houses today!

When you arrive in Oban, ready to make the ferry crossing to Mull, you’re bound to hear the west coast town referred to as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’. But Oban isn’t the only place from which you can explore the surrounding Scottish islands. It’s possible to visit several from Mull too. Here’s how to do it.

The view from the nearby island of Ulva looking back across to Mull

Iona

Perhaps the most famous of Scottish islands surrounding Mull, Iona has attracted visitors for centuries. In fact, over a thousand years ago in 563AD, St Columba arrived, bringing with him Christian teachings that are still felt on the island to this day.

Iona Abbey dates from the Middle Ages. It is one of the most popular attractions to visit, alongside the 13^th-century nunnery and St Oran’s Chapel.

But that’s not all there is to explore on Iona. Three miles long, this wee island is a natural treasure trove waiting for you to discover it. Wildlife enthusiasts flock to hear the elusive corncrakes, while walkers make their way to the island’s highest point, Dun I, or to the beautiful white sand beaches, like the Bay at the Back of the Ocean.

You’ll find Iona just off the south-western tip of Mull. The passenger ferry from Fionnphort takes as little as 15 minutes.

Discover the quaint cottages and charming coastline of Iona

Ulva

Ulva is one of the most accessible of the Scottish islands surrounding Mull. A boat will take you across from the aptly named Ulva Ferry on Mull’s west coast on weekdays, and Sundays between June and August too.

Ulva is a nature-lover’s paradise, with no end of waymarked trails that allow you to explore the island’s diverse scenery. There are rocky shorelines, picturesque woodlands and open countryside to discover. With this range of habitats comes an amazing array of species, with unusual wildflowers to spot, as well as birdlife and mammals.

Much like Iona, Ulva has its own interesting history. Visiting Sheila’s Cottage is a great way to experience what island life was like in the 20^th century, before walking to ruined buildings or Livingstone’s Cave.

Hop across to Ulva and enjoy woodland walks

Staffa

Many visitors to Mull embark on one of the many boat trips to Staffa for the day. Staffa’s claim to fame is for inspiring the musician Mendelssohn with the acoustics in Fingal’s Cave.

But Staffa is iconic in its own right, with towering basalt columns lapped by foaming blue waters. In the summer months, the puffins arrive, attracting many visitors to the island. But whatever time you choose to visit, you’ll have the chance to spot sea birds. You can also look out for marine species, like dolphins and porpoises, from the boat.

There are a variety of boat trips available to visit Staffa, departing from both Tobermory in the north and Fionnphort in the south. Find out more about boat trips on Mull.

Marvel at the magnificent basalt columns on Staffa

Treshnish Isles

From a vantage point on the north-west of Mull,you’ll spot the silhouette of the Treshnish Isles.

Much like Staffa, several boat trips enable visitors to access this archipelago of Scottish islands, with the opportunity to make landing. Tours typically depart from Tobermory because the islands lie off Mull’s north-western coast.

The Treshnish Isles are a haven for wildlife. Puffins nest here during the summer, before the grey seals have their pups in autumn.

Boat trips tend to land on the largest of the islands, Lunga. Once off the boat, you can cross the rocky beach to explore the island and see the puffins, taking care not to disturb any nests.

Meet puffins on the Treshnish Isles during the summer months

Erraid

Erraid lies just off the south-west coast of Mull and while it’s not well known, it is easy to reach if you time it right. Boats can anchor in Tinker’s Hole while visitors can cross over the tidal sandbar on foot when the tide allows.

Small but beautifully formed, visitors will be blown away by the views, from white sand beaches and pink granite outcrops, to the panorama back across to the Ross of Mull.

There are many walking trails that make exploring the island relatively simple. Just remember to check the tides and cross back before the waves cut you off!

The tidal Isle of Erraid lies off Mull’s south west coast

Gometra

One of the lesser known Scottish islands on Mull’s west coast is Gometra, perhaps because it is one of the trickiest to reach. But if you fancy an adventure, a few days on Gometra could make a unique extension to a week on Mull.

You reach Gometra by first taking the boat from Mull to Ulva, then walking a challenging eight miles over hills to reach the bridge to Gometra. The route is as rugged as the landscape and is best tackled only by experienced walkers.

This isolated isle is home to just a handful of islanders and runs off the electricity grid. It’s a true wilderness, with both the challenges and beauties that come with it. Few will discover Gometra first hand, making it a hidden gem for those who do tackle the journey.

The view to Gometra from Mull

Find out more about visiting Mull’s outlying islands and plan your next holiday with our helpful island guide.

As the bright colours of the island capital, Tobermory, would suggest, the Isle of Mull has a vibrant arts and crafts scene. Some preserve traditions that date back centuries, like spinning wool from native flocks and weaving tweeds and blankets. Others make use of modern and unusual materials to delight and surprise.

If you’d like to discover some Isle of Mull artists and crafters and perhaps even buy a piece of local artwork to take home with you, make a start with this guide.

Tobermory plays host to many Isle of Mull artists and craftspeople

Painters

With huge open vistas and a varied landscape of mountains, glens, lochs and forest, the island provides inspiration for many Isle of Mull artists. Several are based here, including Graham & Sally Bruce-Richards and Ronnie Leckie, who has a gallery you can visit on Tobermory’s Main Street. Artist Angus Stewart also has a gallery you can visit on Breadalbane Street, just up the hill from the harbour.

Potters

Pay Mull Pottery a visit in their shop on the Main Street to find beautiful, handmade pottery pieces. Their pottery spans all kinds of homewares and each piece has a character of its own. Often decorated in island-inspired hues, each piece makes an excellent keepsake or gift.

Mull Willow run workshops from a charming croft

Willow weavers

Based on a croft beside Loch Scridain at Ardtun, Mull Willow cultivates and crafts this natural product. Learn the craft on your holiday to Mull with one of their willow-weaving workshops. You can make baskets, bird boxes and stools in a workshop warmed by a log burner.

Beachcombers

Nestled into a hill on the island’s west coast is Lip na Cloiche. Best known as an open garden that is beautifully planted and filled with time-worn treasures, gardener Lucy also creates wonderful crafts with beach-combed finds. Mirrors adorned with shells and crafts created from rope and driftwood offer plenty of island charm.

Ardalanish Weavers in the island’s south west

Wool weavers

Not far from Mull Willow is Ardalanish, located on a farm just outside Bunessan. They work with wool from native flocks and use plant dyes to add colour to garments and blankets. You can take a tour of the mill to see the weaving process in action and pick up some warm and cosy woollens from the shop.

Pyrographers

One of the more unusual crafts is pyrography, where wood is burned to create different designs. Chronicle Crafts & Cakes are masters of the art on Mull. They create all kinds of intricate designs, from coasters to cheese boards and even house signs! You’ll often find Chronicle Crafts & Cakes at the producer’s market in Craignure if you’d like to see these first-hand.

Leather workers

Isle of Mull Leather stands just back from Tobermory’s Main Street – spot their wares displayed in the window when you pass by. Practitioners of the craft of leather working, they create belts, wallets and other leather goods from their workshop using traditional techniques.

Calgary Art in Nature

Galleries to visit on Mull

You’ll find lots of inspiration for things to do on Mull here, but if it’s arts and crafts that take your fancy, we recommend starting here.

An Tobar, Tobermory

Tucked up the hill from Tobermory’s Main Street, you can follow a fairly steep path up to reach An Tobar. The reward for the walk is an interesting gallery with inspiring exhibitions, as well as a cosy coffee shop and cafe.

Calgary Arts, Calgary

You may have heard of the Calgary Art in Nature trail. Often crafted from unexpected materials, sculptures line this wonderful woodland path. But Calgary is also home to an excellent Gallery that showcases the talents of Isle of Mull artists, as well as a workshop that is one of the island’s creative hubs.

South West Mull Makers, Fionnphort

At the other end of the island in the village where the ferry departs for Iona, you’ll find South West Mull Makers. This gallery brings together all kinds of arts, crafts and items created by local islanders. Much of it is available to buy.

Skylarks dancing to the heavens. Meadow Pipits parachuting ground wards. Golden-ringed Dragonflies patrolling the burns. Hen Harriers quartering the hillside…

We all stood in amazement as Mull’s moorland teemed with life! My guests and I were immersing ourselves in spectacular upland ecology on a recent Mull Nature Expedition, undertaking a short leisurely walk to delve deeper into the habitat and experience some of the wilder parts of Mull.

Explore Mull’s upland ecosystems

50% of Scotland’s landmass is an upland ecosystem and these habitats are heavily under recorded in terms of species abundance and trends. I am the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) North Argyll Regional Co-ordinator and Nature Scotland is working with the BTO to record all of our avifauna sightings during expeditions on the moors of Mull. On a recent tour, we managed to input data that included 12 male Meadow Pipits on territory, 8 Skylarks in song, 2 occupied Whinchat and Stonechat sites, 8 singing Wrens and 3 separate Hen Harriers.

The invertebrate life that underpins the diverse fauna is also recorded to help provide a greater understanding of the biodiversity on the island. Dragonfly and butterfly sightings along with their co-ordinates are logged manually out in the field. The information is then entered to the online database once I am back in the office. Guests have the option to get involved in the citizen science projects by helping to spot wildlife, write down sightings and take co-ordinate readings using a device provided.

After a lovely morning observing and exploring the moors we travelled to a nearby viewpoint to scan the habitat and have our packed lunch. Whilst enjoying our hot drinks, a distant Golden Eagle was seen in the spotting scope cresting a mountainous skyline. The emblematic species inhabits the wildest parts of the country from high altitude montane to inaccessible coastlines.

From sea to summit: diverse habitats on Mull

One of the most exciting things about Mull is the large mixture of landscapes and habitats to explore. There are over 60 wildlife habitats recognised in the UK and the fabric of Mull possesses over 30 of those! On our Nature Expeditions we aim to cover a mixture of habitats by vehicle and on foot throughout the tour.

After our lunch break we made for the coast to search for water-based wildlife. The Eurasian Otter is a real draw-card species and a very popular predator so we make sure to cover Otter habitat on every expedition. Another easy-going walk was undertaken to enable almost constant pauses to scan the surrounding shoreline for movement.

An adult White-tailed Eagle flew right overhead with Harbour Seals visibly hauled out on nearby skerries. Whilst the otters remained elusive this time, we instead encountered a pod of Bottlenose Dolphins. They were working the coastline, surfacing in small groups and also showing sporadic breaching behaviour! We input any cetacean records into the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust’s ‘Whaletrack’ app.

Nature conservation and education

The fourth national seabird census is being undertaken during 2018/19. We have been given the task of co-ordinating all survey coverage efforts on the Isle of Mull. Some of these efforts will be taken on Nature Scotland expeditions during the next two breeding seasons. During our afternoon excursion along the coast we managed to complete some census counts on breeding Razorbills, Kittiwakes and Fulmar.

Education is at the heart of every Nature Scotland experience. I will aim to provide fascinating information on species ecology and anatomy, along with examples of how an ecosystem functions healthily when in a completed state. I will also raise any current conservation issues and threats to UK species. This helps to increase awareness and encourage direct involvement and engagement.

Words and Images: Ewan Miles

Ewan runs the Mull based, award-winning eco-tourism operator Nature Scotland (www.naturescotland.com) and offers a variety of tours and experiences that can help you unlock some of the wildlife highlights of the Isle of Mull.

Learn more about Mull’s wildlife ‘big five’ here.

The car is packed, picnic lunches are planned and you’re ready to set off on a family holiday on Mull. But just how do you make sure everyone has a great time? We talk you through our top tips…

Find a house for your family holiday

Whether your family is big or small, having plenty of space counts. Book a larger holiday home and you’ll have room to store toys, boots and outdoor kit galore, without any clutter.

If you’re a family of wildlife lovers or who adore sea views, then The Old Ferry House could be just the place for you.

For those who prefer privacy and seclusion, Craig Ben Lodge is an excellent choice. There’s a walled garden for the kids to run about and play and you look out over a loch – great for a swim on a warm day. For larger groups, you can also book Craig Ben Cottage, which is just next door.

If your heart is set on colourful Tobermory, the location where children’s TV show Balamory was filmed, make Carnanamish your base. This spacious holiday home has all the attractions a family could want within easy reach. Even better is the contemporary design that grown-ups will love too.

Plan an action-packed island itinerary

Whether it’s days out at the beach or exciting boat trips, there’s so much to do on a family holiday on Mull.

In Tobermory alone, you can take the family to explore the exhibits at Mull Museum, meet the island’s marine neighbours at the Mull Aquarium or simply build sandcastles on the beach. Should wet weather strike and you prefer to stay inside, the Rainydays play area will fast become a favourite. Discover more things to do on a rainy day.

For adventurous families, there’s the opportunity for wild swimming, rugged country walks and even scenic pony trekking. Find more ideas for your family holiday on Mull in our guide to things to do.

Make meal times memorable

One of the greatest benefits of booking a self-catering cottage for your family holiday on Mull is that you can dine in or out. Eating out every day with the whole family can become expensive and doesn’t always suit your different needs and routines.

Our holiday homes are maintained to beautiful standards, with well-equipped kitchens that make preparing food a pleasure. And if you want to eat at home but don’t fancy cooking, there’s the excellent Lochbuie Larder. Offering home-cooked ready meals delivered on Mull, they’re well worth treating yourselves to.

Celebrate Christmas on Mull

One of the most popular times to get together with family is the festive period. Many of our properties offer a magical base for your Christmas celebrations, complete with spectacular views, luxurious furnishings and some memorable island traditions.

If you can’t get away for Christmas itself, you could visit to see the Tobermory Christmas lights turned on. It’s a feel-good family event that usually takes place in November.

Start planning your family holiday on Mull today and browse our hand-picked holiday homes, perfect for families.

In this blog post, you’ll follow the entire 300-mile island perimeter to discover the very best cottages for wildlife on Mull.

Grasspoint Cottage, Grasspoint

Located in the south-east corner of Mull, not far from the ferry terminal at Craignure, Grasspoint Cottage has an idyllic location. Your chances of seeing marine wildlife greatly increase here, thanks to the sea wrapping around three sides of the old crofter’s cottage for two. Porpoises and dolphins are highlights on the water, while deer, eagles and otters are stars on shore.

Discover more holiday cottages a stone’s throw from the sea here.

Tigh na Mara, Croggan

Tucked away on the shore of Loch Spelve, Croggan is a haven for wildlife. Wait patiently and you may even be rewarded with a view of an otter crunching up a crab for lunch! There are lovely rural walks from the doorstep of Tigh na Mara, which sleeps two, as well as a quiet beach a scenic walk away at Portfield.

Craig Ben Lodge, Lochbuie

Presiding over the quiet shores of Loch Uisg, a freshwater loch between lochs Spelve and Buie, Craig Ben Lodge is ideal for group getaways, sleeping 10 people. The walled garden is a tranquil spot from which to watch the local wild and birdlife.

Torr na Locha, Ardtun

Moving round to the Ross of Mull in the south west, Torr na Locha, which sleeps eight, has a stunning location by Loch Scridain. This house is another must-stay for marine wildlife on Mull. The chance to spot dolphins while enjoying an afternoon in the garden is not one to be missed!

Macquarie House, Gruline

Set just inland of the island’s west coast by the side of the water on Loch Ba, Macquarie House is a tranquil hideaway loved by guests and wildlife on Mull alike!

In the spring, a sea of bluebells decorate the lawn, while the deciduous woodland also returns to leaf. The varied habitats and proximity to Loch na Keal make this an excellent wildlife-watching base for groups of up to 10.

Snipe Cottage, Torloisk

Further north up Mull’s west coast, you’ll find Snipe Cottage. This contemporary house benefits from huge windows, which reveal excellent views over Loch Tuath. Beaches, mountains and lochs are all within easy reach of this house, giving guests ample opportunity to spot the ‘big five’ wildlife on Mull.

Witch’s Cottage, Croig

In the north-west corner of the island lies Witch’s Cottage, which sleeps four. Croig is a charming spot, with a small harbour and some beautiful beaches to explore. The surrounding woodland and coast makes Witch’s Cottage a great location for watching wildlife on Mull. Scan the skies for soaring eagles or shelter by the rocky shore to wait for otters.

Discover some of Mull’s most magical remote holiday cottages here.

Daisy Cottage, Fishnish

Sleeping six, Daisy Cottage is perfect for a family holiday. It’s also perfect for making the most of the wildlife on Mull, with an observatory, microscope and binoculars provided. White-tailed eagles are regular visitors to the area. The garden and pond also attracts varied wildlife, with cameras set up on site to help you spot it.

Find out more about Mull’s resident wildlife and the tours available.