Things to Know Before You Visit Mull
If you’re thinking of visiting Mull for the very first time, here are five useful things to know before you visit the island to make the most of your stay in the Hebrides.
There’s more than one way to get here
The CalMac Oban (mainland) to Craignure (Mull) route may prove the most popular, but the island is actually serviced by two further ferries. Continue north on the mainland through beautiful Glen Coe, hop on the quick Corran ferry and then enjoy the scenic drive to Lochaline, where you’ll find another ferry service ready to deliver you to Fishnish on Mull. Further north yet still, on the rugged Ardnamurchan peninsula, is the third ferry service to the island, connecting Kilchoan to Tobermory on Mull.
Wildlife season never ends
While the most popular time to visit Mull is between April and October, Mull’s most dreamed of wildlife can be found here all year round. In the winter months, the young white-tailed eagles will often have left their parent’s territories and can sometimes be seen gathered in large numbers on the shore or skerries. Golden eagles, otters and red deer are here year-round too, with the latter often more easily seen as they descend the hills in favour of lower ground as winter arrives.
Taking the scenic route
There’s only two stretches of double track road on Mull, with the vast majority of drives spent exploring the island’s single track roads sitting quietly within dramatic landscapes. The road trips will be breath taking and you’ll soon get used to this style of driving, pulling into passing places to let traffic past and remembering to let vehicles behind you by to overtake if you want to slow down and enjoy the views.
There’s loads of local produce to try
With wonderfully fresh and local produce, from seafood and shellfish to seasonal veg and sensational cakes. We’ve included a guide to help you eat your way around the island’s local growers, producers and restaurants here. The Mull and Iona Food Trail will offer plenty to add to the menu, too.
Mull is closer than you think
The image of a Hebridean island can feel miles away from mainland living. And the character of the island is certainly unique, but it’s more accessible than you might think. In fact, you can see the Morvern hills on the mainland from Mull’s east coast, the Nevis range on a clear day from the south east, and the most westerly Ardnamurchan peninsula from the north. The ferry can be as quick as 20 minutes travelling from Lochaline, but even from Oban it’s just a short 50-minute crossing.