Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Adam Robertson

Isle of Mull guide – how to get there, where to eat and things to do

MULL is an island in the Inner Hebrides and is a popular spot for many of the tourists who flock to Scotland every year.

People will often visit the charming town of Tobermory while there’s also a range of other activities to do on the island from cycling to wildlife watching.

We’ve put together everything you need to know, including how to get to the island and a look at some of the best attractions available. 


How to get to Mull

Mull is the second-largest island in the Inner Hebrides after Skye and the best way to reach the island is by ferry.

According to the VisitScotland website, CalMac operates three car ferry services to the island with the most popular route connecting Oban to Craignure – the island’s main port.

However, you can also travel from Lochaline or take the Isle of Mull ferry from Kilchoan to Tobermory – the island’s largest settlement.

Anyone wishing to find out more about specific ferry times can do so by visiting the CalMac website HERE.


Things to do in Mull

There’s plenty of attractions worth visiting for anyone taking a trip to Mull. History lovers will find themselves right at home with the island’s six castles.

Among the most popular is Duart Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in Mull which is home to the 28th chief of Clan Maclean.

The island also has 300 miles of coastline for people to enjoy whether it’s the white sands of Calgary or the silver sands of Ardalanish beach.

If you want something slightly more off the beaten path, Mull has plenty of walks for people to enjoy with VisitScotland naming a trail past the southern end of Tobermory Harbour into Aros Park as a particular highlight.

Tobermory itself is known for its distinctive coloured houses as well as a number of local, independent businesses for shopping, including the Isle of Mull Soap Company and Tobermory Chocolate or you can sample some whisky at the Tobermory Distillery.

Many will also recognise Tobermory as being the main filming location for the popular children’s series Balamory.


Places to eat in Mull

There’s plenty of places to enjoy a good meal in Mull, which is well known for its seafood.

Based on TripAdvisor reviews, the family-run Galleon Bistro is rated as one of the best places to eat.

Ranked in second place by TripAdvisor is the award-winning Café Fish restaurant while in third place there is the Hebridean Lodge, which one reviewer said had “fantastic mussels”.

VisitScotland also points out that The Creel is well worth a visit. This is located by the ferry terminal at Fionnphort, where you can also catch the ferry to Iona.

The Creel features a varied menu with people able to savour a bit of everything including, crab, scallops, fish tacos and lobster.


Where to stay in Mull

Mull has a variety of accommodation to choose from, whether you want to stay in a coastal cottage, a caravan or bed and breakfast.

There’s also luxurious glamping pods available or you can even choose to stay in the historic Glengorm Castle.

A more extensive list of accommodation available in Mull can be found HERE.


Best time to visit Mull

According to Scottish travel blog The Chaotic Scot, one of the best times to visit Mull is during the autumn.

Although the blog says that many people choose to flock to the island during the school holidays and summer months, visiting in the autumn means there are generally less tourists around.

It says: “There’s a refreshing bite in the air, you’re more likely to catch a beautiful sunrise and the autumn-coloured landscapes are something special.”


Highest point in Mull

Ben More is the highest point on the island, sitting at an elevation of around 3000 feet (around 914 metres).

It is the only munro in Mull and is the highest peak in the Scottish isles. It is the only munro which can be found on a Scottish island apart from those on Skye.


Weather in Mull

According to annual averages, temperatures reach around 16C on average in Mull in July and August.

However, things turn colder in December and January with the highest temperatures only ever reaching around 8C on average.


Wildlife in Mull

The Isle of Mull is has previously been labelled “eagle island” because it is home to a number of both white-tailed sea eagles and golden eagles.

Golden eagles can be spotted in MullGolden eagles can be spotted in Mull (Image: John Wright)

It is also home to otters and seals can also be spotted in the waters around the island while Mull has also become a spot to look for whales, dolphins and basking sharks.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.