Two of the most sought-after options when guests book their Isle of Mull cottage with us are cottages by the beach and dog friendly cottages. So we thought we’d bring the best of both together in this blog post for you, to share our pick of dog friendly beach cottages on the Isle of Mull. Sandy paws, sea views and magical memories incoming…

An Taigh Cuil in Fionnphort (sleeps 4, dog friendly)

You can follow a grassy path straight from the cottage garden down to the beach here! But that’s not all that’s in store, because from Fionnphort beach, you can also pick up a track around the coastline to reach idyllic hidden coves at Tormore overlooking the Bull Hole, where the Iona ferry anchors overnight.

The Bothy in Lochbuie (sleeps 2, dog friendly)

Just a short walk from the front door down a peaceful farm track delivers you to the sweeping beach at Laggan Sands, one of Mull’s larger beaches. This stunning beach has a mausoleum at one end that’s well worth exploring, or if you follow the coast in the other direction, you reach the ruins of Moy Castle too.

Carsaig House in Carsaig (sleeps 15, dog friendly)

This spectacular house is perfect for family groups or friends gathering together. Stunning sea views welcome you at every turn, with a purpose-built firepit overlooking the beach for cosy summer evenings and the striking black sand beach only a short walk down from the garden across the field. Remote, spectacular and luxurious, all rolled into one.

Tigh na Failte in Fionnphort (sleeps 6, dog friendly)

Open the garden gate and step straight onto the beach from this charming cottage. Located in the island’s south west, you don’t only have this beach on the doorstep, but more stunning coves to discover just a few miles along the road at Fidden and Knockvologan too, including the tidal sandbar to Erraid.

Aird Ghlas in Carsaig (sleeps 2, dog friendly)

Another chance to stay above the stunning black sand beach at Carsaig, in a remote-feeling setting where woodland, waterfalls and dramatic headlands frame your coastal views.

Which of these stunning dog friendly beach cottages on the Isle of Mull gets your pick?

When you think of a Scottish Highland bothy, chances are a stone-built, single-storey cottage springs to mind. You’ll picture thick stone walls, slates adorning the roof and a simple layout inside, perhaps just a room or two, with the essential fireplace at the end.

Taking inspiration from bothies on Mull and further afield, we bring you our pick of bothy-style cottages on Mull, with a twist. Because while these cottages have humble beginnings, they’ve been lovingly renovated to offer all the creature comforts you’d expect of an Isle of Mull Cottages homestay.

Which would get your pick?

1 Fisherman’s Bothy

The clue is in the name with this one, packing in the charm with its rock-weighted, thatched roof and pink painted stonework, perched on the edge of Kilfinichen Bay.

2 Tigh na Mara

Translating to house of the sea, it’s easy to guess why, as this red tin-roofed cottage sits a stone’s throw from the shore of Loch Spelve, a view perfectly framed through the wee cottage windows.

3 Aird Ghlas

This one’s a modern take on bothy cottages. This cosy hideaway was once actually a garage! Hard to believe now with its panoramic views and pretty brickwork, but the simple layout inside still pays homage to the Highland tradition.

4 Derryguaig Smiddy

Beautiful dark stonework, a wood burning stove and a stunning setting in the foothills of Ben More above Loch na Keal – this cottage ticks all the boxes when it comes to bothy cottages and more!

5 Dobhran Croft

A bothy with a modern makeover, this wee white cottage in Lochbuie has been transformed to offer contemporary luxury and even a wee bedroom upstairs!

6 Shore Croft

Visitors to this beachfront bothy cottage will be delighted to find mid-century furniture and a beautifully appointed kitchen offering a unique contrast to the cottage’s traditional roots.

7 The Bothy

A classic choice, this cosy stone cottage adjoins a traditional farmhouse in a remote setting at Laggan, within walking distance of the beach, a beautiful walk or adventurous drive around the coast from Lochbuie centre.

Discover more cottages perfectly made for two in our our hand-picked range of holiday cottages for two.

With 300 miles of crystal-clear waters lapping the island’s coastline, and lots of sandy coves with sheltered seas to discover, Mull makes a prime destination for cold water and wild swimmers. But where are the best cottages to stay at for wild swimming on Mull?

North of the Island

Our picks for wild swimmers in the north of the island centre around the white shell-sand coves at Calgary and Croig.

Cnoc Deaghuinn is a charming cottage for six a short walk from the coast at Croig, where you can follow tracks to reach glorious hidden beaches at Port na Ba. Especially lovely for a sunset swim, thanks to the westerly aspect!

At Calgary, we bring you three properties all in one convenient location, where the sculpture Art in Nature trail leads you almost from the door, down through woodland, to the horseshoe-shaped beach at Calgary Bay. The Cart Studio, East Loft and West Loft each sleep two, with the lofts welcoming dogs too.

South of the Island

The Ross of Mull may only be a few miles wide at its narrowest point, but it’s home to more beaches than you could squeeze into a week! In this part of the island, turquoise waters and white sand mix with pink granite outcrops for truly stunning beaches.

Tigh na Failte, a dog friendly cottage for six in Fionnphort, takes top spot for wild swimmers here, with the beach quite literally at the bottom of the garden!

Shore Croft, a cosy stone cottage for two, comes hot on its heels, perched just above the sheltered bay of Uisken beach.

Meanwhile, adventurous spirits will be delighted by the opportunities for wild swimming on Mull when staying at Ploughman’s Cottage and The Pod at Scoor, with multiple hidden sandy bays to discover within a short hike from the house, including Kilvickeon beach.

The Sea Shanty will also appeal, with a short walk over the hill delivering guests directly to the beach at Tor Mor.

Wherever you base yourself, wild swimming on Mull offers endless adventurous, from cool coastal swims to enchanting waterfall plunges. Read our guide to some wild swim spots on the Isle of Mull to dip your toes and book your cottage today.

There’s a brilliant chance of seeing Mull’s majestic wildlife wherever you are on the island. From popular areas for wildlife watching, like the Scenic Route along Loch na Keal, to more unexpected and even ‘urban’ locations – white-tailed sea eagles have soared over the bustling Tobermory harbourfront on more than one occasion before!

But for the keen wildlife photographer, some of our cottages will stand out in particular. Here’s our hand-picked selection of Isle of Mull cottages, perfect for wildlife photographers, based on local knowledge and what guests who’ve stayed tell us too. We hope it inspires you.

Auchnacraig Lodge

Red deer will virtually come to you at the gorgeous Auchnacraig Lodge, where the red deer often graze the surrounding fields, giving you superb views. It’s an amazing place to base yourself during the rut in the autumn, too! Being not far from the coast and Grasspoint pier, you’ve also got excellent chances to spot Mull’s creatures of the deep and otters too.

Old School House

A perennially popular cottage, not only with wildlife photographers but anyone keen to experience Mull’s wild side from a stunning sea view cottage. The Old School House at Croggan delivers at every turn, with mountain, sea and woodland views, a beach in walking distance, and a habitat for just about all of Mull’s big five – from eagles to otters and more.

Coorie Doon

A luxe hideaway near Gruline, Coorie Doon is the perfect spot to see fallow deer, which often come to graze the surrounding pastures as they pop out of nearby woodland. You’re close to Loch Ba and Loch na Keal too, offering yet more opportunity to experience Mull’s wildlife highlights.

Achnacraig

Nestled in Glen Bellart with river, woodland, moorland and open hill country as far as the eye can see, and the tidal sea loch only 10 minutes distant, Achnacraig offers all manner of wildlife habitats on the doorstep. Venture out for a walk at dusk and keep your eyes and ears peeled for owls and scan the hillsides for quartering birds of prey.

The Old Church

With the loch shore at the bottom of the garden, you could say The Old Church brings the wildlife to you! Watch the shoreline for otters that may be working the tides and passing seals that are often as curious about you as you are of them. On a very lucky day, you might even spot a pod of dolphins exploring the loch. With views to Ben More on the opposite shore, you’ll have plenty to inspire when picking up the camera.

If you’ve got a particular habitat in mind, you can search by map here to find an ideally located cottage. Wherever you venture and whatever wildlife you hope to see, please remember to do so responsibly, from a distance, and avoiding disturbance. Have a wonderful time discovering the wilds of Mull. Book your cottage today.

Planning your Hebridean adventure with your other half and four-legged-friends in tow? We’ve hand-picked the perfect collection of dog friendly cottages on the Isle of Mull for couples just like you!

So, whether you fancy beachside or harbourfront, quirky and characterful or contemporary and sleek, read on to find the perfect pet friendly cottage for two.

Seabank

Within its character shell, you can feel the love and care that has been poured into every design choice at Seabank, from the oh-so dreamy kitchen, to the cosy living area with doors thrown up to showcase the unrivalled sea views. Modern luxury meets remote seashore setting here.

The Bothy

This one’s for the wild at heart couples with a keen sense of adventure! After leaving the metalled road behind, navigate a track that hugs the rock formations along the coast at Lochbuie and sweeps past Laggan Sands beach, before arriving at your escape at the Bothy, nestled into a remote working estate in the island’s south east corner.

Tigh na Failte

Although technically big enough for more than two, Tigh na Failte simply had to have a mention. One of the few dog friendly cottages on the Isle of Mull with a garden that leads straight onto the beach, this is the perfect retreat to relax, reconnect and dose up on vitamin sea by the bucket load.

14 Victoria Street

Quirky vintage-inspired finds meet modern conveniences in this reimagined former fisherman’s cottage in the heart of the island’s harbour town. The perfect choice for couples keen to sample the delights of the sea, from the buzzy harbourfront restaurants, to boat trips sailing from the pontoons and coastal walks to the lighthouse and more.

Kilbeg Cottage

A great choice for couples keen to explore the entire island thanks to its central location, with Instagram-worthy dog walks from the door along the River Forsa and deeper into the glen, approaching Ben Talaidh.

Dobhran Croft

Nestled into the wee hamlet of cottages at Lochbuie a stone’s throw from the sea, Dobhran Croft delivers on every level, from jaw-dropping hikes to nearby summits, stunning coastal trails to little-known beaches and a great brunch spot just down the lane at the Old Post Office.

Old School House

This one’s for the wildlife lovers, with Mull’s big five making their appearance in the local area. Gorgeous sea views will mesmerise from the window, while the cottage’s quirky character features and layout add oodles of charm. Plus, there’s a quiet beach a short walk along the coast, too!

Taigh Cian

Tucked beneath a rocky bluff beside a freshwater loch, this cottage feels oh-so private. Enjoy lazy coffees on the deck as you gaze across the water, before hiking to nearby beaches or making longer treks out to ruined townships too.

Wood Cottage

A retreat tucked between the trees in Aros Park, Wood Cottage feels a world away from civilisation. And yet, you’re just a scenic walk along the coastal path (or a few miles by road) into Tobermory, the island’s harbour capital. The perfect choice for hikes from the door with waterfalls, lochs and woodland aplenty, without compromising on everyday conveniences too.

Lorne Cottage

This pretty pink cottage stands out amid the terrace of fisherman’s cottages overlooking the sea in Tobermory Bay, high above the harbourfront. And the warm welcome outside continues within, with character stone walls, a roaring open fire and all the luxury touches for a perfect romantic retreat.

Find your perfect dog friendly Isle of Mull cottage for a romantic getaway today.

Escape for a winter break

Between November and March, we offer the lowest weekly rental fees you’ll find our cottages advertised at all year, often hundreds of pounds less than they would be in high summer. On top of that, many of our cottages also offer short breaks, with stays from just two nights and flexible arrival and departure days.

You can tailor-make your winter escape to suit your timings and budget. Remember we are just at the end of the phone if you have any specific queries or requests. We’re here to find the perfect Isle of Mull cottage for you.

Plain sailing

One of the biggest questions asked by guests choosing an Isle of Mull cottage for winter surrounds the ferries. What happens if your sailing is disrupted due to bad weather? Will the ferries be running?

The good news is that CalMac operate a year-round ferry service to Mull, with the exceptions of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Even during the winter, we have multiple ferry sailings a day to choose from and three different routes on and off the island (from Oban to Craignure, or from Lochaline to Fishnish and Kilchoan to Tobermory).

Should the bigger ferries be disrupted due to weather, then CalMac often suggest you divert and come via Lochaline to Fishnish instead. This ferry operates to a timetable but doesn’t need to be booked in advance and often sails in poorer weather than the bigger counterparts. The port staff are very helpful and will do their best to help with your travel plans.

Season’s change

Mull is an island with a thriving population of almost 3,000 residents who live here year-round. So while there is of course a seasonal element to the island with some businesses and attractions just open from April to October, not everything grinds to a halt.

Our village shops remain open year-round for groceries and some of the restaurants and cafes operate over the winter months too. What a winter visit to an Isle of Mull cottage does require though is planning ahead.

Not everywhere will be open, so call ahead to check availability and make dinner reservations. Tobermory, the island’s harbour capital, has several pubs and restaurants that keep their doors open year-round, and several are dog friendly too.

Likewise, most boat trips are weather dependent, which means the arrival of winter and its more unpredictable weather means those wrap up until the following spring. Plan ahead to be sure you can do the activities you want to enjoy during your visit with the help to our guide to local boat trip operators and seasonal wildlife highlights.

If you’re not sure, just ask us. Being based here on the island means we have the local knowledge to help you get the most out of your holiday.

Starry eyed

One of the biggest appeals of an Isle of Mull cottage in the winter is the chance to curl up beside the fire after an evening of stargazing. With very little light pollution, we have amazingly dark skies. On a clear night, you’ll see countless constellations and stars. And for the luckiest winter visitors, you might even see the Northern Lights.

This spectacle relies on solar energy and clear skies coming together so you can soak up nature’s dance show. The winter is undoubtedly the best time to try your luck at spotting the Northern Lights, and it all starts with a place to stay.

Start planning your winter break on the Isle of Mull.

Nature Scotland‘s Ewan Miles joins us to share five ways to embrace ‘Wild Autumn’ on the Isle of Mull this year.

Nature’s Colour Palette

Walk though multi-coloured landscapes with lochs nestled against a backdrop of red, gold and amber. As mother nature takes off her summer wear and transitions into her autumnal coat, the colour palette on display is breath-taking around the island. From the rustic tones on the open moors, the many shades of greens and oranges in the surrounding woodlands and the glistening blue and green turquoise seas. Whatever the weather, get out and connect with nature, from the sights, smells and sounds.

Roaring Red Deer

One of the UK’s greatest natural events takes place on Mull during autumn. When the female red deer (hinds) come into season, this triggers off the incredible spectacle of the red deer rut. For months leading up to this time of the year, sexually mature red deer stags have been preparing for the most important contest of their lives – access to a harem of fertile females. The fight starts vocally, and if this is not enough to ward off a competitor, rivals parallel-walk before locking antlers.

Rut activity peaks during the three hours after dawn and before dusk, so arrive early and be prepared to stay late. Approach downwind, use vegetation as cover, tread softly and avoid sudden movements. And always keep your distance and do not intrude on their natural behaviour.

Raptor Island

Autumn is great time to enjoy watching bird of prey on the Isle of Mull. After the breeding season, the abundance of raptors on the island actually increases due to the fledged juveniles present along with new arrivals appealed by the milder oceanic conditions with less snow and ice throughout the winter months. Species like hen harrier, kestrel, sparrowhawk and merlin may visit Mull during the autumn months and they may have arrived from mainland Britain or even continental areas.

There is also a great movement with young and non territorial eagles who are seeking out vacant openings on the island. Satellite tagging has shown that young birds also revisit their natal areas and parent birds are more tolerant of their presence within the territory.

Painting with Light

Mull’s dynamic weather systems and changing light provides endless admiration and beauty, making it a photographer’s paradise. The ‘golden hour’ is more accessible in the autumn and often can last for longer than an hour, or even most of the day!

This is the period of the day where the sun is low on the horizon and creates a soft ‘golden’ light which is excellent for photo opportunities. The cooler temperatures will also increase the clarity in the air and create a better quality of photograph, helping you get those sharper images.

Otters also provide a fantastic photo subject at this time of the year as they increase their time feeding in coastal areas. Also spring and summer reared cubs will be hopefully water-based, providing some exciting opportunities to watch family groups learning and playing.

The Dark Side

Mull is located below some of the darkest skies in the whole of Europe. A clear autumnal night on the island can provide breath-taking views of the wondrous night sky. A satellite image of our continent at night will display the value of the west coast of Scotland and its unpolluted skies. 

The island’s high latitude location provides an increased chance of observing the northern lights throughout the darker autumnal months. For reasons not fully understood by scientists, the auroral displays are stronger around the equinox periods, so this increases displays of the ‘merry dancers’ during September and October.

The milder temperatures during autumn also means that you can spend a longer time out under the stars.

Ewan and the Nature Scotland team will be providing a range of land-based wildlife tours during the autumn on Mull with Isle of Mull Cottages’ guests entitled to a 10% discount on any day tour booked during 28th August – 1st November 2023. On booking enter the discount code ‘IOMC_Autumn2023’

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.

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.