9 unmissable things to do on Mull

The Isle of Mull found in the Inner Hebrides, the third largest island in Scotland, is full of rich cultural heritage and has over 300 miles of coastline to explore. There are many things to see and do on the island including many interesting castles and historical sites, an abundance of wildlife and stunningly beautiful beaches to visit. Below is our list of 9 unmissable things to do on Mull.

Mull is located to the west of mainland Scotland not too far from Fort William and the best time to visit is between April and June when the weather tends to be fine and dry compared to other months. The most popular way to reach Mull Is via Ferry from mainland Scotland. The Oban to Craignure route (ideal if travelling from the south) takes around 45 minutes and the Lochaline to Fishnish (if coming from the north) route takes just 15 minutes.

1. Calgary Bay

Meaning ‘Beach of the Meadow’, Calgary Bay is situated in the North West just 12 miles away from the island’s capital city of Tobermory. The bay is home to a wonderful variety of wildlife and birdlife, if you’re lucky you may see dolphins playing in the sea. The bay boasts some of the most spectacular views on the island with surroundings of partly wooded hills, rugged headlands and white sandy beaches. You’ll also see the ruins of stone forts and abandoned villages that contrast with the area’s beautiful country homes and cottages. Kids will love flying kites and building sandcastles on the beach or fishing on the pier, while adults can enjoy relaxing in the nearby tearooms and art gallery.

2. Duart Castle

Duart Castle stands proudly on a cliff top at the end of a peninsular which reaches out into the Sound of Mull at the very eastern point of the island. The castle has been the traditional home of the Macleans clan for 400 years and is strategically placed to guard to the surrounding sea. Visitors can take a walk through the castle’s dungeons and stately rooms before taking in the spectacular views from the top of the keep. You can enjoy the castle, its gift shop and tearooms for just £14.35 for a family ticket. There is also a tour designed for children where they can take part in a range of fun activities, as well as a number of exciting events held throughout the year. Car parking is available and the castle is closed during the winter months. Other castles on the island include Torosay Castle, Glengorm Castle, Moy Castle, Dun Ara Castle and Aros Castle - so you’ll be spoilt for choice!

3. Ben More

Ben More is the highest mountain on the Isle of Mull and is the remnant of volcano. Ben More’s name means ‘Great Mountain’ and is a popular hotspot for walkers. On a clear day at the summit you can see the Sound of Mull, the islands of Staffa, Iona and Ulva and also the Ross of Mull, the largest peninsula of the island. Popular routes up Ben More range from around 4-6.5 hours with varying levels of difficulty but the view from the summit is highly rewarding!

4. Isle of Erraid

The Isle of Erraid is a small tidal island which lies off south west coast of Mull. It measures just 1 square mile and is connected to Mull via a beach when the tide is low. It is known as one of the driest and sunniest places in Scotland and was the base station for the ‘Dhu Heartach’ Lighthouse that is located 5 miles south west of the Ross of Mull. The island’s houses and pier are constructed from Erraid granite. Erraid is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and is surrounded by breath-taking scenery.

5. Fossil Tree

Fossil Tree, located at the western tip of the Ardmeanach Peninsula, is a 50 million-year-old conifer tree standing 12 metres tall which was engulfed in molten lava. The geological wonder was discovered by John MacCulloch in 1819 and the area is now a designated National Scenic Area and Environmentally Sensitive Area. Visitors can take a challenging walk to the site but be aware the location is remote, you can only reach it by foot and it is not for the faint-hearted! It is advised to join a guided walk such as those offered by Mull Magic.

6. Northern Lights

The Northern Lights or ‘Aurora Borealis’ is a spectacular show of light and colours in the sky resulting from interactions between solar particles and the Earth’s atmosphere. On Mull the best time to see the lights is during autumn through to spring. Due to the lack of light pollution on Mull the skies make a perfectly dark backdrop for this visual sensation. Keep an eye out for the lights around midnight when the sky is its darkest and look towards the north for the best chance of seeing them.

7. Eagle Watch

The Mull Eagle Watch tours are popular with visitors to the island. Mull is also known as ‘Eagle Island’ and is home to many white-tailed eagles and golden eagles. The largest bird in the UK, the white-tailed eagle has a wing-span of up to 2.5 metres and weigh up to 15lbs. There are around 10 pairs of the birds nesting around Mull’s lochs, forests and coastline. Magnificent Golden eagles can also be spotted soaring above the open moorland and mountains of the island. You can book your tour at the Craignure Tourist Information Centre and each trip lasts around 2 hours. Tickets cost £6 for adults and £3 for children and binoculars are provided. The tours operate from Monday-Friday Spring until autumn.

8. Lochbuie Stone Circle

The Lochbuie Stone Circle stands within the ground of Lochbuie House and is overlooked by the magnificent Ben Buie Mountain. The circle is set in a ring with a 12 metre diameter and originally consisted of 9 stones, the tallest being 2 metres high. The granite stones have been posited with their flatter faces looking inwards and like many other mysterious stone circles in the UK, the purpose of the circle is unknown. Outside of the circle lie 3 further stones placed at varying distances, adding to the mystery. This place has a magical quality and should not be missed.

9. Mull Magic Otter Tour

The Mull Magic Otter Tour is ideal for twildlife enthusiasts. Otters are in abundance on the Isle of Mill but these highly elusive animals can be extremely difficult to spot. The tours offered are great for families as the walking is fairly easy and knowledgeable guides teach you how to spot otter tracks so you can be sure you are looking in the right places. The tours cost £45 per person and transport, lunch, afternoon tea and a souvenir map are all provided. Each tour is restricted to 4 people so booking early is advised. Adults and children alike will love this unique opportunity to see these lovable creatures amidst beautiful coastal surroundings.

Mull offers something for everyone and is a great place to go if you enjoy the outdoors and would love the opportunity to see a whole host of wildlife including birds of prey, sea life, red deer and mountain hares. For even more fun on the island’s coast, why not visit one of Mull’s many beaches such as Laggan Sands beach or the tranquil white sands of Traigh Ghael beach. With great places for camping, a trip to Mull makes an ideal holiday.