Balach Oir lies just across the single track road from the beautiful shore of Loch Scridain, making it the perfect base for wildlife enthusiasts and keen walkers. Otters are regularly spotted in the local area, as well as dolphins, seals and even eagles overhead. Across the water towers Ben More, the island's highest mountain and only munro, with the most popular starting point to climb it only a scenic 15-minute drive away.
Nearest village: Bunessan (8 miles)
Drive to ferry terminal at Craignure: 30 minutes
Map and Directions
We send out a property information document with directions to the house, and other useful information, to all guests who book with us.
Things to Do
Balach Oir promises a real taste of the island's wild side from its charming position in the sought after village of Pennyghael on the Ross of Mull. Fantastic walking opportunities await into the hills behind the cottage, where you can find waterfalls and woodland as you make your way towards the island's southern coast. The dramatic coastal scenery of Carsaig is only a short distance away and offers yet another vision of the island, with rugged cliffs, a stunning beach and true wilderness more often frequented by eagles, red deer and wild goats than people! The local village hall serves up a hearty cooked breakfast on occasional weekends and takeaway teas and coffees can be purchased from Pennyghael Stores, then it's full steam ahead for a hike.
A gentle stroll along the shoreline to the front of the cottage will turn up all kind of wildlife treasures, from oyster catchers to curlew. Quiet and patience may even deliver a view of the local otters - the key is to give them time and when you see them, keep down wind. Seals are often visitors to this shoreline too, and often seem to be as interested in you as you are in them. A wildlife tour with a local expert to guide you will help to maximise your chances and fortunately for guests at Balach Oir, Wild About Mull are based in the same village.
The Ross of Mull is renowned for its idyllic white sand beaches, many of which can be enjoyed without another soul to be seen. The beautiful rocks at Knockvologan, the sheltered waters at Uisken and the silver sands of Ardalanish are all popular choices. The ferry from Fionnphort to the Isle of Iona, where yet more beaches await, as well as the dancing machair in season and the historic Iona Abbey, lies only 25 minutes' drive away, with boat tours also departing to see the basalt columns of Fingal's Cave on Staffa, and the puffins in season too.
