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Mull Wildlife Archive

5 Luxury Experiences to Discover on Mull

The Hebrides may be a wild and beautiful place, but that needn’t come at a compromise when it comes to luxury too. For those seeking to treat themselves, here are five luxury experiences to enjoy while on Mull, from those that take you into Mull’s remotest corners and waters, to those that bring the magic of Mull to you.

Balach Oir, luxury homestay for six guests on Loch Scridain

Dine with a difference

No guide to luxury experiences on Mull would be complete without covering the foodie scene! Mull punches well above its weight for gastronomic delight, with local chefs serving up the freshest seafood, landed that day by a local fishing boat, amid menus that major on island ingredients, from wildflower-infused desserts to croft-raised Highland beef.

So where to sample the finest of island feasts? Epicureans will be in their element at fine dining restaurant, An Cala Cuin in Tobermory, Ar Bord in Dervaig or Ninth Wave in Fionnphort. It is essential to book well in advance. Or, for the luxury experience to enjoy at your homestay instead, don’t miss Hebridean Lodge, where you can order three delicious courses to take home and warm up when you’re ready.

Bespoke guiding

Whether you’re seeking one-to-one guiding to maximise your chances of wildlife encounters with a target species, a photography expert to help you capture high quality images, or an angling aficionado to help you secure the biggest catch of the day, Mull has a range of high quality guides who offer bespoke services to suit your requirements.

Private charters

Some of Mull’s most popular boat excursions – including the famous Mull Charters sea eagle trip – can be booked for exclusive use. Not forgetting the whisky and gin-tasting experiences offered by Tobermory Bay Tours, too!

There are also several operators catering solely to exclusive-use clients, whether you want to set sail on a traditional sailing boat with Alternative Boat Hire, or hit the waves and discover Mull from the water with Coastal Connection.

Exclusive access

Adventure needn’t come at the cost of a high quality experience, and this is just one great example where Mull delivers in spades! Picture wild swimming in a crystal-clear, deserted sandy bay. In the crisp and cold waters at the foot of a glittering waterfall. Or in a naturally formed plunge pool, miles from the nearest road.

An experienced local guide can open the door to these incredible opportunities well off the beaten track. Walk Mull offers bespoke guided hikes to some incredible wild swimming spots, tailored to your requirements.

And relax…

It would be amiss not to mention the spa facilities on the island when diving into all-things luxury experiences on Mull. Conveniently located in the south east of the island, the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa promises a range of experiences for non-residents, from full day pampering to hot stone massages and more. The perfect treat after a challenging hike, or before embarking on the long journey home.

Luxury pet friendly homestay for eight guests, Mor Aoibhneas

With these luxury experiences on Mull to inspire you, it’s time to book your luxury homestay to match. Delve into our hand-picked range of high quality island properties to find your cottage today. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call and we can create a personal shortlist of cottages to consider, tailored to your unique requirements.

What to Expect from the Isle of Mull Weather

What to expect from Isle of Mull weather when you come to stay? Quite possibly the million dollar question for many visitors to the island, along with the midge forecast! So, just what can you expect from Isle of Mull weather in each season?

Bluebell hillside

Spring

Spring tends to bring a more mixed picture of Isle of Mull weather. Expect a fast-changing array of wind, showers and sunshine and often, a lot of rainbows! As the island wakes up after winter, the changing light and lengthening days sees the natural world spring back to life with spectacular bluebell and early wildflower displays.

Summer

May and June generally see the best of the bright weather on the island, but that’s not to say you won’t find a wet day, nor to say that July and August will be a wash out!

While there are no guarantees, the summer months tend to offer the best chances of drier and more settled conditions, but it’s still best to come prepared for all possibilities. It’s not unusual to hear locals say to expect all four seasons in a single day!

Autumn

Autumn can be a magical season here on the island. The roar of rutting stags carries on the wind and echoes through the glens, as the red deer descend from the higher summer grazing to more sheltered lowlands and the rut begins.

It’s a time of change for the weather too, with the days slowly drawing in and a higher likelihood of some wind and rain. The silver lining is that the waterfalls will often be flowing in full spate, making for some spectacular sights exploring the island as the bracken-covered hillsides turn copper and gold.

Winter on the Isle of Mull with snow-covered mountains, blue skies and the moon above

Winter

Winter is the season to coorie up in a cosy cottage and immerse yourself in Highland hospitality. A wee dram of the local malt by the fire to warm the wilder nights, and in clear skies, excellent opportunities to stargaze and – if you’re lucky – spot the Northern Lights.

There’s a good chance of some wild weather this season. But, the earlier arrival of sunset and later return of sunrise offer some brilliant photography opportunities amid rapidly changing skies, light and weather conditions.

Looking along Mishnish Lochs at sunset

What about the midges on Mull?

If you’re keen to avoid the midges altogether, then a winter break or visit early in the season (April or early May) will give you the best chances. Midges become more present on the island through the summer and autumn, although generally not in the big clouds you’ll find in the Highlands!

As so much of the island is coastal, there’s usually a breeze that keeps the midges at bay. You’ll notice them more in very still conditions and particularly in land, in woodland or by bodies of water, so plan your activities accordingly. A bottle of Smidge and a net if you’re worried should keep you right.

Whatever your choice of season, find your cottage and start planning your next adventure on Mull.

Isle of Mull River Walks

Inspired by questions we’ve had from guests so far this season, this month we want to bring you a round-up of some of the prettiest Isle of Mull river walks. 

Mull may have lochs and coastline aplenty, but it’s home to some stunning rivers and watercourses too, through open glen, dappled woodland and some peppered with cascading falls and pools too. 

So, we hope you enjoy our pick of five Isle of Mull river walks and perhaps feel inspired to try one when you next come to stay. Off we go!

View of River Luisa and surrounding oak woodland with hills beyond

1 River Lussa, Ardura

This one would be our pick among the prettiest Isle of Mull river walks that are also very straight forward too. Parking at the signed carpark just past the Lochbuie junction, pick up the easy gravel trail and you’ll soon find yourself wandering along the pretty river bank amid the oak woodland.

This walk is especially pretty in spring with wildflowers aplenty and gives a pleasing glimpse into regenerative tree planting of native species in the area too. Keep an eye out for the memorial for John Jones beside naturally formed-pedlar’s pool. 

This walk is a there-and-back route so you can venture as far as you fancy. Pressing on to the deer fence opens up fantastic views over the glen to the surrounding mountains, including Ben Talaidh.

Aros River and riverbank with woodland behind

2 Aros River, near Salen

Parking at the carpark just beyond the Aros Forestry Commission office just north of Salen Bay, this easy river walk begins. 

A straightforward gravel track leads you through a couple of gates with views across grassy hillside and forestry uphill, with the river flowing downhill to the other side of the track, coming in and out of view as the track meanders. 

Follow the track all the way to the wooden bridge for a lovely vista over the river looking both up and downstream.

Scallastle River waterfall with hills beyond in autumn/winter

3 Scallastle River, near Craignure

This one’s for the more adventurous walkers, with some hills involved. But the fantastic river and waterfalls more than make up for the effort required! Beginning from the signposted parking area just north of Craignure, begin uphill along a gravel track until you meet the Scallastle River, crossing a bridge here.

From here, the path narrows and climbs more steeply, following the river uphill and taking in some stunning waterfalls. The loop descends to rejoin the larger gravel track, where you then retrace your steps downhill, with lovely sea views over Loch Linnhe and the Sound of Mull.

River Forsa flowing through Glen Forsa with Ben Talaidh beyond

4 River Forsa, Glenforsa

Just off the main road up the island’s east coast, there’s a designated parking area for walkers keen to set off into Glen Forsa, roamed by resident Highland cattle. A gravel forestry track leads you into the glen, offering spectacular mountain views and a good chance of spotting some of Mull’s big five wildlife.

A couple of kilometres into the glen, you can peel off the track to join the riverside. The return then follows the riverbank for the majority of the way, offering very peaceful views. Lovely at any time of the year, but particularly spectacular in a very cold spell when the river has been known to freeze, sometimes creating amazing ice formations.

Aros Park waterfall

5 Aros Park Upper and Lower Falls, Tobermory

This Isle of Mull river walk is easily reached from the island’s harbour town of Tobermory, either on foot following the scenic coastal path that leads to the foot of the Lower Falls, or by car, turning off the main road to Aros Park.

A series of pretty trails meander the hillside, looping from the main car park round to the Lower Falls before following their cascading path upstream. Here, the trail meets the entrance road and bridge, before crossing to continue steeply uphill to take in the dramatic Upper Falls too.

Find more walking routes to explore on Mull with our local’s guide including route maps.

5 of the Best Isle of Mull Cottages for Wildlife Photographers

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.

Direct access to the shore from the garden at The Old Church

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.

5 Scenic Tobermory Walks to Explore from Mull’s Harbour Town

Visitors to Mull often have Tobermory, the island’s harbour capital, high on the list for places to visit. But once you’ve combed the Main Street and enjoyed a coffee, what to do next? 

We’ve put together a guide to 5 stunning Tobermory walks, from coastal paths to waterfall trails, hill climbs to lochside ambles, to guide you.

Aros Park Lochan and Waterfalls

Aros Park makes a great destination whether you’ve got time for a quick leg stretch or a longer amble. 

The easy-going trail around the lochan takes only 30 minutes to complete, with lovely views over the lily pads and plenty of birdlife to see. Extend the trail by climbing the steep steps up by the abandoned power house and waterfall, which once generated power for the now long-gone Aros House. 

Extend your adventure yet further by also exploring the trails that lead along the lower falls, offering beautiful views at one end of the bay and back to Tobermory, and at the other to the dramatic upper falls as they thunder down the hillside.

Coastal Path from Tobermory Harbour to Aros Park

Starting from the Ledaig carpark at one end of Tobermory’s harbourfront, the path sets off along the coastline. Narrow in places and with steep drops down to the sea, the route hugs the coast and brings you all the way round to the beautiful Aros Park. 

You’ll enjoy lovely views across the water to Tobermory’s brightly painted harbourfront. There are some very impressive old cedar trees along the way too, as well as gently cascading streams and bridges, before delivering you to the foot of the lower Aros falls. From here, you can easily extend the walk by picking up one of the many trails around Aros Park.

Tobermory Harbour to Rubh nan Gall Lighthouse

Rubh nan Gall Lighthouse is on most visitors’ to Tobermory’s to-visit list and for good reason. Fortunately, from the CalMac pier end of the harbourfront, a path leads you all the way there and back again. With woodland to either side, the path traces the edge of a steep hillside with views to the water below.

Keep an eye out for otters and seals along the coastline. For the botanists among us, this pathway is laden with wildflowers during the season too, from wild garlic and bluebells in early spring to water avens and more later in the year. 

There are several benches from which to pause and soak up the views and, as you near the lighthouse, superb views over to the Ardnamurchan peninsula too.

Ardmore Point

Venturing a few minutes out of Tobermory on the road to Glengorm by car, you’ll reach the first of two parking areas signposted for Ardmore. Park at the first and then follow the main track as it leads seawards and gradually downhill.

As you descend, you’ll reach a signposted junction indicating footpaths to the shore, to Ardmore Point and onwards round to Glengorm. 

You’ll arrive at the ruins of Penalbanach village, where you can follow the path to visit the point, the most north-easterly part of Mull, or continue down to loop around the shore of Ardmore Bay instead.

Crater Loch

Although not technically in the town, this route had to make it into our round-up of Tobermory walks and is very popular with locals and visitors alike. 

Parking in the bays just off the road along the Mishnish Lochs, follow the signs to the gate that marks the start of the trodden path up to the Crater Loch, officially known as Lochan S’Airde Beinn. 

This is a short, steep walk over often soggy ground, so bring your waterproofs and good boots. The reward for your efforts though are superb views across North Mull’s hills and out to sea. Not forgetting the ‘crater loch’ itself, which only comes into view as you reach the top.

The descent of this walk makes for beautiful viewing too, with views over the three Mishnish Lochs and on to Speinne Mor, North Mull’s highest point. There’s a great chance of seeing some fantastic wildlife in these parts too.

If you’re feeling inspired by these Tobermory walks, find plenty more inspiration in all corners of the island in our guide to walks on the Isle of Mull.

5 Beautiful Coastal Walks on the Isle of Mull

Join us as we navigate the north, south, east and west corners of the island with these five fantastic coastal walks on the Isle of Mull. With options for all abilities, from gentle strolls to sand bar crossings, find a route to add to your holiday itinerary this year.

Rubh nan Gall Lighthouse at sunset

1 Rubh nan Gall Lighthouse from Tobermory

One of Tobermory’s most popular walks, and it’s easy to see why! Commonly referred to as the ‘Tobermory lighthouse’, it’s name is actually Rubh nan Gall and this there-and-back walk makes a perfect addition to a day in the island capital. 

Starting from the CalMac pier end of the Main Street, pass through the small gate and pick up the narrow path heading to the lighthouse. The path leads through steep-sided woodland with lovely views to the water below and there are a couple of benches along the way to pause and take in the view.

As you near the end of the path, the lighthouse will appear in front of you. Take your time enjoying the view and watching for seals that are often spotted in the area, before retracing your steps to the harbour.

The ruins of Moy Castle standing on the forested hill overlooking the Aros Estuary and out to Salen Bay on the Isle of Mull
Ruins of 16th-century Aros Castle on the headland

2 Aros Castle and river estuary

This lovely walk lies along the island’s east coast and, being shorter in length, is easily squeezed into an action-packed day. Starting by the old stone bridge over the River Aros, follow the gravel track around past the traditional stone cottages and around the headland. There are superb views to enjoy at every tidal range and lots of visiting birdlife. 

As you round the corner of the headland, look up to the towering remains of the 16th century ruin of Aros Castle. This area is covered in bluebells in the springtime. 

You can either enjoy this as a short there-and-back stroll to the castle, or make it circular returning along the single-track road with care. To do so, as the track continues on, take a left turning into the woodland to climb uphill, passing a few more houses and follow the lane to rejoin the main road, turning left to return to your start at Aros bridge.

The ruins of Moy Castle poking out above the trees with a boulder strewn beach in front
Ruins of Moy Castle on the way to Laggan Sands

3 Lochbuie to Laggan Sands

Parking on the seafront in Lochbuie, pick up a coffee from the Lochbuie Larder and a piece of cake to enjoy on the beach. Then follow the track that leads east past the church and onwards along the coast. 

You’ll pass rocky coastline, pockets of sandy beaches at different tides and the dramatic ruins of Moy Castle as you go. The track then hugs dramatic rockfaces as it rounds the final few bends to deliver you to the beach at Laggan Sands below.

There are often fallow deer to spot en route and Highland coos roaming the beach. At the far end, there is also an interesting mausoleum to visit too.

Discover six Scottish islands you can visit from Mull, with boat trips, walks and historical attractions to see, as well as abundant wildlife.
The tidal Isle of Erraid lies off Mull’s south west coast

4 Knockvologan to Erraid

This walk is located in the island’s south west, just about as far as you can venture by car! Parking by the beach at Knockvologan – a beautiful shell-sand beach interspersed by pink granite outcrops – at a low tide a sandbar is exposed, connecting the beach to the tidal Isle of Erraid. 

Adventurous souls will enjoy the walk across to explore this tiny island, with the old lighthouse keepers’ cottages still occupied today. Once on Erraid, a variety of tracks traverse the island, with points of interest including the old lighthouse observatory, which is no longer in use, and the beautiful Traigh Gheal sandy beach. 

Just remember to pay attention to the tides and check tide times before you cross over, to ensure you have ample time to also make the crossing back before the high tide once again cuts Erraid off from Mull.

Often named Mull's most beautiful beach, Calgary Bay is a stunning sweep of white sands in a horseshoe shape, with lovely walks along the coastline nearby.
Looking across Calgary beach

5 Calgary to Caliach Point

No guide to coastal walks on the Isle of Mull would be complete without a mention of Mull’s most popular beach – the beautiful horseshoe-shaped white sand of Calgary Bay. Aptly, this walk begins from this very beach, giving you the chance to enjoy the shell-sand from many vantage points en route.

Pick up the track that leads from the carpark end of the beach along the headland, which soon delivers you to an old stone pier. From here, the track cuts steeply uphill, climbing up onto the headland that you then follow round the coast. There are superb views back across Calgary Bay and for the adventurous, you can continue right out to the headland at Cailach Point.

Discover more route maps and walk ideas in our guide to walks on the island and book your cottage today.

Exploring 9 Isle of Mull Lochs

Scotland is a country renowned for its lochs and Mull is no different. With both freshwater and sea lochs to discover during your stay, embark on a whistle stop tour of nine Isle of Mull lochs to plan your adventures.

Freshwater Isle of Mull Lochs

Loch Ba and reflections of mountains

Loch Ba

Loch Ba is a freshwater loch on the island’s west coast by the Knock, with hills and mountains separating it from the sea at Loch na Keal on the westward side. A good gravel track runs along the loch, leading deeper into the glen, at which point you can venture further into Glen Cannel, or peel off to summit a peak. A wonderful walk leading into some remote country, with excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.

Loch Torr and forestry

Loch Torr

There are some great circular walks to discover here, as well as the popular wildlife hide. The paths leave the loch fairly swiftly, but if you take the loop that ventures out towards Glengorm and back along the road, there’s plenty of wildlife and Highland coo interest to enjoy en route.

Looking along Mishnish Lochs at sunset

Mishnish Lochs

This chain of three smaller lochs, collectively known as the Mishnish lochs, lies just west of Tobermory on the single track road leading towards Dervaig. A popular spot for permit fishing, there’s a small pathway along the lochs’ end that offers a gentle stroll and lovely views.

Aerial view of Loch Frisa and Speinne More beyond

Loch Frisa

This long, deep loch stretches across the centre of the island with a well-trodden forestry track running its northern length. You can begin from the east coast just north of Aros, or from the north of the island where the track reaches the Dervaig-Tobermory road. Starting from the Aros end, there’s also the possibility to create attractive circular walks through farmland, woodland and along the river too.

River feeding chain of three lochs in Glen More

The Three Lochs

An unmistakable landmark as you travel through the south of the island’s mountainous Glen More. The Three Lochs appear as you pass over the hills shortly before the descent towards Loch Scridain, with a parking area conveniently located above them. A lovely spot for coffee with a view and an eye on the wildlife. The adventurous will also enjoy the challenging hike that passes all three of these lochs, before summiting the hill and descending towards Lochbuie on the south coast.

Isle of Mull Sea Lochs

Coastal view of Loch Buie with mountains behind the sea shore

Loch Buie

A charming discovery at the end of a single-track road cocooned by rhododendrons, Loch Buie is the sealoch from which the wee settlement here takes its name. This is one of the best Isle of Mull lochs for walks, with good trails leading west towards Glen Byre and beyond to Carsaig, or east past the ruins of Moy Castle and round to Laggan Sands and the mausoleum. There’s a cracking little café, the Old Post Office, to warm up with coffee and cake on your return in season.

Loch Scridain

This sea loch carves its way inland from the Ross of Mull’s southern tip, reaching up between the settlements at Pennyghael and Kilfinichen. There are several opportunities to park near the head of the loch and wander along the shore and pebble beaches exposed by the tides. Often a quieter sea loch to explore with a good chance of seeing otters, eagles and more.

Loch na Keal

Of all Isle of Mull lochs, Loch na Keal is perhaps the best known. This sea loch is a designated National Scenic Area and flows up to the dramatic Gribun cliffs and north side of the remote Ardmeanach peninsula too. A wildlife hotspot, you have the chance to see all of Mull’s big five here, with views to the island’s only munro, Ben More, too!

aerial view of west coast and Loch Tuath

Loch Tuath

This sea loch surrounds the north west corner of Mull’s coastline and it’s arguably one of the best Isle of Mull lochs for access to outlying isles. Boat trips depart across this loch from Ulva Ferry to reach Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, and the shorter journey across to the island of Ulva, and beyond to access to the island of Gometra too by foot. As with all of the island’s west coast, it’s an excellent location for spotting Mull’s spectacular wildlife.

We hope this guide to Isle of Mull lochs inspires you for your next visit. Just get in touch if we can help with local ideas, walks and advice. Being based here on the island, we’re happy to put our local knowledge to work to help you get the most from your stay.

Multi-Coloured Mull: Wild Autumn on the Island

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

10 Things to Do in Tobermory

The harbourfront seen from above

Picnic on the beach

Just beside the fisherman’s pier you’ll find a small sandy beach, perfect for the dogs to have a paddle while you enjoy a picnic lunch on the sand, or a bite of fish and chips.

Enjoy a dram

With guided tours around Tobermory’s own distillery at the end of the harbour, followed by a tasting or two.

Tobermory Distillery

Jump aboard

With both Staffa Tours and Sealife Mull operating boat trips from the Tobermory pontoons out to sea, and the brilliant Tobermory Bay Tours offering hour-long scenic cruises, there are plenty of opportunities to experience Tobermory from the water.

Go fish!

At the catch-and-release aquarium, with lots of intriguing native creatures of the deep to encounter and touch pool sessions that younger visitors will love to get stuck into.

Sea anemones Mull Aquarium
The Isle of Mull Aquarium in Tobermory

On the market

Mondays see the return of Tobermory’s take on a farmer’s market, with fresh produce, island meat and fish often available, as well as yummy treats cooked there and then and all manner of gifts and homewares crafted by local makers.

Step back in time

At the Mull Museum, open daily with just a donation required to come and have a look around. Trace your clan’s past, discover the history of Mull and see Tobermory through the centuries.

The Mull Museum is one of many attractions along the pretty Main Street in Tobermory

Culture fix

Venture up the hill to An Tobar to peruse the gallery and enjoy a coffee and cake, perhaps even returning later on to enjoy one of their regular musical and theatrical events.

Raise a glass

Of Tobermory’s own craft beer, brewed on the Main Street at ToBEERmory.

Walk on the wild side

Start your day bright and early and set out with a local wildlife guide, with tours departing from Tobermory to cover all corners of the island and give you great chances of meeting its famed wildlife.

Retail therapy

From locally made soap and pampering bath products, to artefacts made from antler, pretty pottery and even jewellery too, the Main Street offers a wealth of choice from local, independent purveyors.

5 Ways to Experience Eagles on the Isle of Mull

You’ll often hear Mull referred to as ‘eagle island’ and with good reason! The island is home to thriving populations of both the white-tailed sea eagle and the majestic golden eagle. So, if you’re hoping to encounter eagles on the Isle of Mull, here are five different ways to do it.

From the water

The ever popular boat trip aboard the Lady Jane with Mull Charters offers you the chance to see white-tailed sea eagles up close. Throwing freshy caught fish from the boat, the lucky passengers may see the eagles swoop in to clasp the fish between their talons from the water.

The sound of their wingbeats and sheer size of the eagles encountered at such close quarters makes this an unmissable way to experience eagles on the Isle of Mull.

On land

For those who prefer to keep their feet on terra firma, a land-based wildlife tour should be your first port of call. Local guides know the routines of these majestic birds well and will give you ample opportunity to encounter them during a day’s exploration of the island, whether perched, on the wing or even grappling another eagle in a dramatic descent! They’ll also give you lots of ideas for where to go to improve your chances of seeing eagles on the Isle of Mull during the rest of your stay.

In breeding season

Each year once the white-tailed eagles begin to nest, Mull Eagle Watch opens its doors with guided walks to find out more about the birds and watch the activity on the nest from a responsible distance.

High in the hills

Adventurous souls will often have little trouble encountering eagles on the Isle of Mull. As you climb Mull’s quieter hills and peaks, you’ll often be passing through the large habitats of the more elusive golden eagles, so remember to cast your eyes to the skies for the chance of a sighting. You can find lots of ideas for walking routes on the island (complete with OS maps) in our guide here.

Close to sea level

It will come as little surprise that the white-tailed sea eagles often appear around Mull’s sea lochs. Whether you hunker down in the wildlife hide at Fishnish or spend the day scouting the shores of the island’s west coast, you’re likely to encounter a sea eagle. In the winter, as juveniles have fledged, you may also be lucky enough to see a number gathered together – a spectacular sight for those enjoying a winter break on Mull.

Find out more about the fantastic wildlife and eagles on the Isle of Mull and plan your holiday this year.