Tempted to spend Christmas on Mull but not sure where to start? Plan the perfect festive getaway, whether for all the clan or just for two, with our top tips.

Christmas lights along Tobermory harbour

Island fare

One of the most anticipated parts of any Christmas celebration is dinner, whether you enjoy it at lunchtime, teatime or any hour in between. And on Mull, we’ve got some of the most irresistible island-produced ingredients to elevate it to a feast.

Think locally caught shellfish starters or Inverlussa mussels cooked deliciously with garlic and a splash of white wine. Then it’s onto the main course, where local flavours join the traditional roast turkey, with trimmings like venison or game pie and pigs in blankets from croft-produced pork.

For dessert, try a locally made Clootie dumpling or pick up a homemade Christmas cake. Add something savoury with Isle of Mull cheese and oatcakes.

Christmas at The Old Little Theatre

The Christmas spirit

The Scottish islands have a storied history when it comes to making whisky, with a whole host of secret stills and well-known distilleries. It is no different on the Isle of Mull. Explore the Tobermory Distillery with an expert guide, where whisky has been produced since 1798. To experience the other side, walk to the ‘whisky cave’ on the west coast. You can guess how it earned its name!

Then there is the recent taste for gin, which has gone up and up. You’ll find this trendy spirit being distilled and bottled on Mull now too. Call into the Whitetail Distillery at Tiroran to sample a tipple or two in their coffee shop, take a bottle back to your cottage and peek behind the scenes at the copper stills in action.

Holiday cottages for Christmas on Mull

Oakfield House

A grand Victorian house for 10 with some of the best sea views in all of Tobermory, Oakfield House was made for family get-togethers at Christmas.

Preparing Christmas dinner will be a breeze with an Everhot range cooker featuring not one but three ovens, as well as two large fridge freezers. And then there’s the dining room.  With a superb sea view and antique furniture fit for the most special occasions, dinner will be decadent.

Plates emptied and stomachs merry, it’s on to the two living rooms to relax beside the fire and get out the board games.

The Old Little Theatre

A Christmas bolthole for two. The Old Little Theatre oozes luxury and in the winter light, its dramatic interiors really come into their own. Light the fire, poor a dram and help yourself to a mince pie on Christmas Eve, then wake up on Christmas morning in a sumptuous sleigh bed, snuggled in faux fur throws. The stage is set for a magical Christmas.

Witch’s Cottage

Celebrate Christmas on Mull beside the sea at Witch’s Cottage. Escape it all for a week of pure relaxation walking the coastline and watching the wildlife from your window-side perch. Wander past the pier and out to the sandy beaches at Croig and you’ll almost certainly have them to yourselves!

Burn Cottage

Old meets new at Burn Cottage, bringing you an enchanting setting in the depths of winter, with all the convenience (and luxuries) of a contemporary property inside. Think a high-spec chef’s kitchen, perfect for Christmas dinner, as well as toasty underfloor heating to complement the wood-burning stove.

Dobhran Croft

Wake up on Christmas morning at a cosy cottage and perhaps even see deer in the garden! Spend Christmas on Mull at Dobhran Croft and follow stockings with a bracing beach walk from Lochbuie to Laggan Sands. Then return to the cottage to warm yourselves beside the fire and dig into an island-inspired feast!

Book your winter escape on the Isle of Mull today.

Sunrise light on Sgurr Dearg

Often heralded as one of the most challenging walks on Mull, a hike to the Carsaig Arches is undeniably also one of the most spectacular. It’s the uncompromising landscape that makes the route so tricky and yet so stunning. The way is punctuated by steep-sided cliffs and sheer drops, as well as being strewn with rocks. But it’s the same landscape that makes the experience so remarkable, even before you reach the arches themselves. For keen walkers, venturing to the Carsaig Arches is highly recommended.

Along the shoreline route, your gaze leads directly out to the sea south of Mull. On a clear day, it can land on neighbouring islands, or simply soak in the steady, rhythmic swell of the waves as they sweep in. Look out for Colonsay and Jura, unmistakable with its towering Paps, on the horizon.

Follow the shoreline west to reach the Carsaig Arches.

It’s not a walk for those not physically prepared to put in the best part of a day navigating difficult ground over uneven, rocky shoreline. Take provisions to keep your energy levels up and stay hydrated. Pull on your sturdiest pair of walking boots, because when you reach the Carsaig Arches and take in the naturally eroded features first-hand, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

The walk to Carsaig Arches on Mull

Your journey begins on foot from the small parking area beside the pier at Carsaig. Getting here in itself is a bit of an adventure. Turning off just outside Pennyghael, follow a narrow lane down hill. You will first pass a waterfall and red phone box before reaching the pier and sea.

Keep an eye out for the seals that often claim these rocks for a spot to slumber. They won’t be the only wildlife you can expect to meet. Wild goats roam the cliffs here, and eagles aren’t uncommon sights overhead.

View of Carsaig Bay at the beginning of the walk.

Head west around Carsaig Bay to begin your journey to the Carsaig Arches. Following the coastline makes navigating reasonably straight forward, which is helpful when the terrain demands more of your attention. Following the shore along enables you to appreciate the magnitude of the cliffs above, where you can still discern the different lava flows that formed much of Mull’s landscape 60 million years ago.

The shoreline around Carsaig has interesting geology.

As you walk, you’ll gain a unique insight into Mull’s intriguing geology. If you’re ready for a break, take some time out to pay closer attention to the rocks. You can even locate the KT boundary in the cliffs along the route. This section in the rock dates back to the event that caused the extinction of the dinosaurs.

The route to the Carsaig Arches runs along the shore at the base of these cliffs.

Reaching the Carsaig Arches

When you near Malcolm’s Point, you have almost reached the Carsaig Arches. Just a short distance on from here delivers you an excellent view. Take your time to photograph the arches, eroded by the tides into the rock. They are another example of columnar basalt, which you’ll also see on a voyage to Staffa and Fingal’s Cave.

The spectacular second arch, viewed at a distance.

It is possible to climb up to the second arch, but this comes with significant risks. The way is exposed, the path virtually non-existent and the drops to either side treacherous. For this reason, many prefer to take in the second arch from a safer vantage point, rather than ascending it. Return the way you came with a full camera and an amazing memory from your holiday on Mull. Discover more walks on Mull and check out a map of the route to the Carsaig Arches.

Waves crashing through the arch.

Note: Hill walking has inherent risks and dangers. Conditions change quickly and navigation can be difficult. Always make sure you are well prepared for any conditions and have the correct level of experience for your chosen route.

For the converted, wild swimming offers invigoration akin to the feeling of summiting a mountain for a hiker. The temperatures tend to be bracing, the experience intrinsically in touch with the elements. Depending on where you choose to go wild swimming on Mull, it can be just as physically challenging as cresting a peak too.

Practised with care, wild swimming on Mull opens up an entirely new experience of the island from its waterways. Float in silent bays, cool off in pools filled by gentle waterfalls. Soak up the island views, often from sea level, and connect with nature anew. Here are some places you could try wild swimming on Mull.

Wild swimming in North Mull

Croig

A visit to Croig in itself is a real treat, but it’s also a brilliant spot for wild swimming on Mull. The wee harbour has oodles of charm, with traditional stone walls, a sleepy feel and fishing pots piled by the pier. You can park the car by the roadside before setting out on the path that meanders along this stretch of coast.

You’ll find several sandy coves that are oh-so appealing for a wild swim, with the walk back to the car a good way to warm up after dipping into the water.

Calgary

Perhaps unsurprisingly given its reputation as Mull’s most beautiful beach, the clear waters of Calgary Bay are another hotspot for wild swimming on Mull. You’ll find plenty of visitors donning a wetsuit and taking a dip, while the hardiest head straight in in costumes. The horseshoe-shaped bay and headlands to either side mean the waters are fairly sheltered here.

And as with the best of wild swimming on Mull, you won’t be the only one out for a paddle. Calgary Bay’s waters are incredibly clear, giving you excellent views of the fish that flit about beside you.

Making a splash on the West Coast

Ben More Pools

Ben More may be best known as a munro to bag, but explore its slopes and foothills and you’ll find some enchanting wild swimming spots too. This crystal-clear pool is filled by the waterfall, creating an ultra atmospheric experience. You’ll almost certainly have the pool to yourselves.

Traigh na Cille

You’ll often hear this beach referred to as the ‘Black Beach’ thanks to its grey sands. Like many of Mull’s beaches, you’ll need to walk a short distance to reach the water at Traigh na Cille, rather than stepping from the roadside onto the sand. That makes it essential to bring your towels and warm clothes with you.

Taking a dip on the Ross of Mull

Knockvologan

Unless you’re staying locally, reaching Knockvologan beach demands a fair drive, albeit through lovely scenery if you head down the west coast, or through the dramatic mountains of Glen More. It’s a journey that more than pays off though, as this beach is filled with secluded coves, white shell-sand and crystal clear waters. Depending on the tide, there are good areas of shallows, which warm up much more quickly than the deep end in the summer months.

Uisken

In contrast to the bays at Croig and Traigh na Cille, Uisken couldn’t be easier to reach. A short drive from Bunessan brings you to a beachside carpark, which fills quickly in summer as it’s only small. Bag your spot and the sand will be between your toes in seconds! This is another sheltered bay, where you can swim while gazing out to the Paps of Jura.

Dun a’Gheird

If you’re set on having the beach to your group alone, pull on walking boots before your wet suits. A small amount of exploration delivers you to seriously stunning white sand coves, like this one. Named after the fort beside the beach, the dazzling waters won’t disappoint…

Book a holiday cottage in South West Mull and enjoy wild swims like these close by.

Note: Wild swimming has inherent risks and dangers and is undertaken at your own risk.  Conditions change quickly.  Always make sure you are well prepared for any conditions and have the correct level of experience for your chosen swim.  Make sure someone knows where you are swimming and always take someone with you.  Please note that inclusion of locations on this list does not guarantee their safety or suitability for wild swimming.  Check the tides, depth and ensure there is no blue-green algae present before swimming.

Ever wondered what Ben More is like from the summit, or what remote peninsulas look like up close? Scree-covered slopes. Snow-topped peaks. Rocky, remote headlands. A hiker’s paradise, Mull has them all. In this blog post, we head off the beaten track to get a fresh perspective of Isle of Mull mountains with some stunning visitor photos shared on our Facebook page, plus some insider tips to help you enjoy them. Do you have a photo we should be including too?

Photo taken by Matthew Hull

Ben More, Mull’s only munro

Undoubtedly the most famous of Isle of Mull mountains, the summit of Ben More towers a dizzying 966m above the sea. Two of the most popular routes up begin from the scenic shores of Loch na Keal. One of these routes takes on a more challenging ascent first up Beinn Fada and then along the A’Chioch ridge pictured here behind Meg, the collie. Derryguiag Smiddy makes the perfect cottage base camp.

On a clear day, the views from the top are outstanding, but always come prepared. The weather changes rapidly on Mull and you’ll often find Ben More’s head in the clouds. Find out more about climbing Ben More.

Photo taken by David Goodwin in June 2019

Bluebell-strewn hills

The bluebell display is one of Mull’s most magical natural treasures and makes it well worth booking a cottage in May or June. They’re best seen before the bracken gets too high and shields them from view. And to the surprise of some, while you’ll find enchanting pockets of woodland blanketed in bluebells at Gruline, you’ll also see them decorating much more exposed hillsides.

Photo taken by Ian Butler

Photo taken by Jane Traynor

Low-level vantage points

Isle of Mull mountains don’t always demand that you climb to their summit to be blown away by the views. In fact, you can take in panoramic vistas of Mull’s hills and peaks from sea level. These dramatic pictures were taken looking across Loch na Keal. Stay at Kellan Mill Lodge and you could enjoy views like these without even leaving home!

Photo taken by Carol Franklyn

For a similar easy access experience but with a distinctly different feel, plan a drive through Glen More. Pictured here by Carol Franklyn in September this year, the glen is bathed in sunshine – proof that the shoulder season is well worth experiencing too.

Photo taken by Linda Graham

Remote and rugged peninsulas

Spend any length of time exploring Mull’s 300 miles of coastline and you’ll encounter cliffs, coves and stretches of land that unfurl into dramatic headlands. In fact, you can even stay at a cottage on your own small peninsula over Loch Scridain – Ardchrishnish is the one to book.

But perhaps the most breath-taking peninsula of all is found at Ardmeanach. Located in the remote south west of Mull, you can walk the Burg or even descend down the ladder to the Fossil Tree.

Discover more about the fantastic opportunities to head outdoors with our Mull walking guide.

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.