This month, we’ve got inspiration for the adventurous, as we bring you some of the best Isle of Mull hill walks to take on. Mull may only be home to one munro, the mighty Ben More, but it offers plenty of rugged and often pathless peaks for the adventurous hill walker to sink their boots into. Read on to discover the summits you could be ascending when you stay.

1 Ben More

It only makes sense to start with the island’s only munro, which is often bagged as the first or final munro by those keen to bag them all. Standing at 966m, it may not be the tallest of munros, but it is one of very few that you climb from sea level to summit, making it no small challenge. It’s also the only munro in Scotland accessible by boat!

The majority of hikers will begin their ascent from Dhiseig on the south shore of Loch na Keal, where a fairly well-trodden route ascends the mountainside, largely following the course of the Abhainn Dhiseig river as it flows down to the sea and cascades through pretty pools.

For a substantially more challenging, and exhilerating ascent, suitably competent climbers may ascend the remote and rugged nearby Beinn Fhada (702m) first, before scrambling at times across the A’Chioch Ridge to reach Ben More.

However you bag this munro, there’s a sheltered cairn at the top as you rest and refuel, while taking in outstanding views across to Mull’s outlying islands and inland to Mull’s mountainous interior and the mainland beyond, too.

2 Beinn Talaidh

Standing at 762m, Beinn Talaidh’s shape makes it a very visually appealing summit to tackle. Your route begins with a fairly long but straightforward hike through Glen Forsa, before the real ascent begins. There’s plenty of interest in the meantime, with the remains of the 1945 Dakota plane crash on the hillside, Highland cows roaming the grasslands and plenty of wildlife activity too. If you want to break the hike, the MBA’s Tomsleibhe Bothy offers a base to overnight in the glen.

3 Ben Buie

Another eye-catching peak, Ben Buie stands at 714m, but don’t let it’s less-than-munro status fool you into thinking this will be an easy climb! There are two popular ways to ascend – the first, beginning to the north at the Three Lochs in Glen More.

The second, arguably more challenging, but vastly more beautiful, route is a climb up from sea level at Lochbuie, trailing burns, crossing scree and navigating crags to reach the summit. The views are simply spectacular on a clear day.

4 Beinn na Drise

This Isle of Mull hill walk offers an easier climb, but still a really lovely view to reward you. Beginning from the island’s north west coast just north of Laggan Farm, follow a track initially, before following the course of the Laggan Burn most of the way to the summit at 424m. The trig point at the top offers excellent views over Loch Tuath and Loch na Keal.

5 Dun da Ghaoithe

Your initial ascent of Dun da Ghaoithe won’t feel terribly adventurous as you trace the route of a gravel track uphill to the series of masts, after which the path ends, but you only have about a third of the way left to go from here.

Continue pressing on uphill to the summit at 766m, where the reward for your efforts are spectacular views both across Loch Linnhe to the Grampian mountains on the mainland, and inwards on Mull across the mountainous central glens to Ben More too.

Discover plenty more epic hikes, from hill climbs to coastal routes, with our guide and OS map printables to walks on the Isle of Mull.

Undoubtedly Mull’s most famous beach, Calgary Bay glistens with turquoise waters lapping gently ashore against a horseshoe of white shell-sand. Backed by machair, which puts on a stunning floral show in season, and cocooned between towering headlands to either side, it’s easy to see how Calgary Bay earned its popularity.

So, if you’re keen to visit and soak in the sights first-hand, here are seven things to do at Calgary Bay.

1 Explore Calgary Art in Nature Trail

If you start up the hill at Calgary gallery and café, there’s a fantastic trail that meanders all the way down to the beach. En route, you’ll discover all manner of unique art installations and sculptural creations lining the path down to the beach.

2 Enjoy an ice cream from the Boat Shed

A must for any beach trip, with a dash of Mull charm thrown in as you won’t be served from just any ice cream van, but from the boat shed – a quirky building beside the carpark, with drinks on offer too.

3 Beach-comb for tide-tossed treasures

The waves at Calgary Bay are generally fairly gentle, as the bay is nicely sheltered, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find some gems! Shells decorate the white sand, along with interesting seaweeds, driftwood and more. What will you find?

4 Brave a wild swim

Brace yourselves for a dip in the cool, clear waters and enjoy a wild swim at Calgary Bay – often with teeny tiny fish darting around with you!

5 Go rock pooling

Nets at the ready! At the ends of the beach, there are some great rocky areas that flood with the tide to form pools. Well worth a peek to see what critters you might find, or simply to enjoy a splash about!

6 Hike to Caliach Point

To the north side of the bay, a path leads along the top of the beach and out to an old granite pier, before steeply ascending to the headland above. From here, you can hike out along the tops, soaking up sensational coastal views, all the way to Cailach Point, passing abandoned villages, rugged cliffs and spotting the islands of Coll and Tiree in the distance.

7 Enjoy coffee at the café

After a day of fun at Calgary Bay, warm up with a cup of coffee, piece of cake or light lunch at the lovely Calgary Café, just up the hill. Sit inside or out and with plenty of parking, this is the perfect spot to refuel!

Calgary Bay isn’t Mull’s only island beach though. Along our 300 miles of coastline, there are many more to discover. We bring you a local’s guide to some of the most spectacular in our guide to Isle of Mull beaches.

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?

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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 16^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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!

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.

There’s no better way to soak up the island’s scenery than on foot, surrounded by the dramatic landscapes that cocoon you and at one with the sound of the birdsong and breeze. And there’s no better way to enjoy the experience than with Isle of Mull walks with cafes at the end. The perfect way to warm up and reward your efforts, whether after a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike. Here are five to inspire you.

Lochbuie

Follow the meandering single-track road past Loch Spelve, Loch Uisg and the dramatic hills of Creach Beinn and Ben Buie to arrive at the shore of Loch Buie. You can leave your car in the parking spot by the sea and then the adventure begins.

Follow the coast east along the well-marked footpath that hugs the shoreline, passing the ruins of Moy Castle and rounding the corner to reach the long sweeping beach at Laggan Sands. At the far end, you can look around the interesting mausoleum, too.

Then, retrace your steps initially, before taking a right turn just before Moy Castle and following the track to join the road. Turn left here and walk along the road, taking care if there’s passing traffic, to the bridge, where the standing stones are signposted. From here, follow the markers across sometimes boggy land to reach the Lochbuie stone circle – a dramatic sight with the towering hills beyond.

Retrace your steps to re-join the road, which delivers you back to where you began at the shoreside parking area and the door of the Old Post Office, Lochbuie’s charming cafe serving excellent light lunches, coffee and cakes in season.

Glengorm

In the north of the island, around 15 minutes drive from Tobermory lies the beautiful Glengorm estate, complete with a stunning, privately owned castle. Head through the white gates as you approach the estate and then turn right for the walker’s carpark (signposted). Leaving your car, return to the lane and turn right, following the lane to a bridge, where a few walk choices are signposted.

Dun Ara and the Bathing Pools makes a lovely there-and-back route, with a very small detour to see the Glengorm standing stones visible from the usual grassy path. There are some stunning wildflowers to spot through the season as you go, as well as plenty of sheep and sometimes Highland cows too, which are farmed on the estate.

As you return to the bridge on your way back, you’ll arrive at a beautiful stone steading building with a courtyard seating area. Here you’ll find the superb cafe at Glengorm – home to excellent cakes for mid-morning or late afternoon and a superb lunch menu, featuring lots of produce from the estate.

Calgary

After securing your spot in the wee carpark just beside Calgary beach, the adventure around the headland begins! To the right-hand side of the beach, follow the grassy footpath that takes off around the headland, passing the old granite pier before the path climbs further up the hillside.

As you make your way westwards around the headland, you’ll have far-reaching views out to sea and towards the islands of Coll and Tiree. The walk also passes several ruined settlements that were victims of the Highland Clearances, before reaching Caliach Point.

After scanning the seas for marine life and watching waves break below, retrace your steps to return to Calgary beach. Here, you can either grab a drink and ice cream from the Boatshed or venture up the hill through the Art in Nature path to reach the tea room (both seasonal).

Tobermory

One of the most popular Isle of Mull walks with cafes at the end is the there-and-back footpath from Tobermory harbourfront to Rubha-nan-Gall lighthouse. Starting from the far end of the Main Street by the CalMac ferry pier, pass through the signposted gate and begin your adventure along the lighthouse path.

Tucked between a steep hillside and the sea, the narrow path feels very dramatic. It’s especially beautiful in the spring, when the steep hillsides are blanketed in the white blooms of wild garlic and the soft tones of bluebells. You’ll enjoy lovely vistas to the Ardnamurchan peninsula as you walk. There are several benches dotted along the path to enable you to pause and take in the view.

The lighthouse itself is a beautiful building, surrounded by rock pools at low tide. When you’ve had your fill of vitamin sea and perhaps spotted a passing seal or two, retrace your steps to Tobermory’s harbourfront. Here, a fantastic choice of cafes await, from the Tobermory Bakery to the chocolate shop.

Craignure

An easy-going there-and-back walk that affords spectacular views, this is one of the best Isle of Mull walks with cafes at the end when you arrive on the ferry in Craignure. Parking in the car park in the village, follow the road south west and you’ll soon reach a left-turn at North Lodge that marks the beginning of the walk to the Torosay Estate.

Offering a wonderful combination of views, the track passes through farmland with far-reaching vistas to the Scottish mainland and even Ben Nevis in the distance. Further along, the walk takes on a new character as you plunge into beautiful woodland, spectacular in spring and autumn, with lots of notable and unusual tree varieties.

Enjoy a beautiful view of Torosay Castle, which lies ahead, although the castle itself is closed to the public (the gardens are open the first Sunday of the month in season). Returning the way you came, arrive back into Craignure and enjoy a choice of great cafes: Arlene’s, Blether’s or the new chocolate factory.

We hope these Isle of Mull walks with cafes at the end have inspired you. Find more walking guides with route maps here, and book your cottage today!

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.

In the past 12 months, we’ve become better than ever at exploring the great outdoors that lies on our doorstep. As part of that, many of us have found new passions for outdoor pursuits, whether taking on testing hills or taking to the water for a bracing wild swim. With that in mind, we’ve compiled our pick of the best Mull cottages for adventure seekers, whatever pursuit most appeals to you…

Cottages for wild swimming

Calgary’s sheltered horseshoe bay and glistening clear waters make a tempting case for braving the bracing temperatures and taking a wild swim. Where better to base yourselves, then, than Sands Cottage and Calgary Bay Cottage, where you can dash back up the beach and straight in the door to warm beside the fire afterwards. Bliss!

Cottages for hill walking

Tucked into the foothills of Ben More, Derryguaig Smiddy offers a prime position for those hoping to summit Mull’s only munro during their stay. There are plenty more interesting hills to tackle in the area too, from the challenging Ben Fhada to the difficult alternative ascent of Ben More via the A’Chioch Ridge.

Venturing south, Dobhran Croft promises some excellent hills close by too at Lochbuie. Ben Buie is, of course, a must. But with the remote and dramatic coastline towards both Laggan and Carsaig, and the hills of Craig Ben to discover, there’s plenty to entertain those who like to head off the beaten track.

Cottages for kayaking

With Loch Scridain at the bottom of the garden, The Old Church has long been popular with guests hoping to enjoy Mull from the water during their stay. Launch your kayak from the rocky shoreline and get a new perspective of the beauties of the Ross of Mull coastline.

Cottages for paddle boarding

With the tranquil waters of Salen Bay (and, conveniently, paddle board hire available in the village too), Scots Cottage is the perfect choice for those who wish to dip their toes in the adventurous side of Mull, all with a welcoming and modern homestay to return to.

Cottages for biking

Some of Mull’s most dramatic scenery and terrain lies deep in the heart of the island in a little-visited area called Glen Cannel. To get here, one must venture along the length of Loch Ba and then deep into the glen, surrounded by Mull’s mountain country on all sides. A fantastic cycle in wild surrounds, with a good chance of being joined by a soaring eagle or quartering hen harrier as you go. Macquarie House affords easy access to this wonderful part of Mull.