Itinerary #7: Mull

Mull

Less than an hour from Oban lies the Isle of Mull - home of the dramatic Duart Castle, which sits high on a cliff-top, proudly guarding the Firth of Lorne. On Mull, you'll also find the fishing port of Tobermory, famous for its pastel-coloured houses, which line the harbour.  

There's around 300 miles of coastline to explore on Mull - with beautiful bays of turquoise water. On that coastline lies one of Mull's most famous spots - Calgary Bay. Around its edges you'll find traces of previous settlements including Iron Age forts, and most recently, those dating from the Clearances.  

For the foodies ... 

In the North of the island 

If you have a passion for great quality food and drink, the Isle of Mull will not leave you disappointed, as it's home to some of the most exceptional food and drink in Scotland. 

For a memorable dinner, book a table at The Galleon , recently awarded the 'Taste Our Best' accreditation by Visit Scotland, and enjoy delicious dishes of seasonal local produce.  

If you like seafood, Café Fish  is an award-winning restaurant housed in an iconic Art Deco building overlooking Tobermory bay. The fish is brought in from their own boats and the extensive menu is available for both lunch and dinner. 

Visit Isle of Mull Ice Cream  in the centre of Tobermory's main street - you can't miss the pretty pink building. Home to delicious handmade ice creams in unique flavours such as Scottish tablet and Tobermory whisky, all made from dairy from a farm just a few miles away. 

In the South and West of the island 

ar bòrd  (our table) is a small family run restaurant in Dervaig. The set menu regularly changes, and features the best local produce from shellfish, wild venison, Isle of Gigha halibut and meat from neighbouring farms. ar bòrd is unlicenced, but you can pick up some wine from Dugie's shop in the village or at the Bellachroy hotel on the way! (Booking is essential as places are limited). 

The Keel Row  is a welcoming island pub serving lunches and evening meals. Enjoy a drink in the beer garden overlooking the beach and keep an eye out for the furry locals - the Highland Cows! Located in Fionnphort, it's a great place for dinner after a day out on the Isle of Iona or the Ross of Mull. 

For history and heritage enthusiasts ... 

Mull is the gateway to the Isle of  Iona, only a 5-minute ferry crossing from Fionnphort, making it the perfect day trip. Visit where Saint Columba settled in 563AD to build Iona Abbey and spread Christianity to the Celts. Iona Abbey - one of Scotland's most sacred sites, is the burial place of ancient Scottish Kings, including Macbeth. If you need a clearer view of the place, walk up Dùn Ì - the highest point on the island - for panoramic views of Mull, Tiree and Coll. Close by, you'll find white sandy beaches, the last land before North America. Whilst on the island, why not indulge in an outstanding meal of fresh and homegrown produce at The Argyll Hotel  nestled in the village with views over the Sound of Iona. Iona is known for being tiny in size but huge in terms of special charm, wildlife, beauty and fascinating history. 

For the wildlife lovers... 

If you are keen to discover the amazing wildlife on Mull, Nature Scotland  offers award-winning wildlife tours from a team of dedicated naturalists. Search for iconic species such as Golden Eagle, White-Tailed Eagle, Otter, Hen Harrier, Red Deer and many more. 

Or why not take a boat tour to The Isle of Staffa , famous for its hexagonal pillars and Fingal's Cave. Keep an eye out for dolphins, porpoises and minke whales which are often seen during the warmer months.  

A large colony of puffins breed on Staffa every summer and are always a firm favourite with visitors who can see them congregate on the cliffs - it's often possible to get very close to them, making for some great photo opportunities. 

For those looking to relax and unwind ... 

Where luxury and wellness meets adventure, the The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa  is a retreat to relax and renew. The Driftwood Spa offers revitalising Ishga treatments, a thermal experience and a sea-view swimming pool. 

The hotel's bistro Òran na Mara, offers fresh seafood from the waters around Mull, with coastal views where you can watch the sunset over the islands from the Balcony Lounge.