30 Things To Do On The Isle Of Mull

The Isle of Mull is an Inner Hebridean island off the west coast of Scotland. This guide will list the best places to visit and things to do on the Isle of Mull. 

Mull is an ideal place to go for a day trip, a weekend away or if you wish you can stay a fortnight. Tobermory is the main town on the Isle of Mull, and this is where you will find charming colourful houses perched over the harbour.

Also, you can explore miles of stunning coastline with amazing wildlife. The wildlife you can catch a glimpse of includes Golden and White-tailed Eagles, otters, corncrakes and other birds and mammals.

Off the coast of Mull, there are feeding areas for whales, dolphins and basking sharks. After you have read this guide there will be no need to ‘mull over’ the decision on whether you should visit the Isle of Mull.

The island is home to fewer than 3,000 people, therefore it is a great place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of normal life. 

Tobermory

Tobermory was built as a fishing port in the late 18th century and is now the main town on Mull.

There are some excellent shops, hotels and restaurants in the centre of the town. Also, Tobermory was the famous setting for the children’s TV programme – Balamory. 

There is a Spanish galleon shipwreck located in the bay of Tobermory. It is believed that millions of gold coins were on board the ship and no one has been able to locate the gold since the drowning in the 16th century. 

Nearby Accommodation: Park Lodge Hotel, Buzzard Apartment & Raraig House West Wing B&B

Mull Museum 

One of the things to do on the Isle of Mull is to learn about its history. Inside the Mull Museum, you can learn about the history of the mighty Mull.

The museum is located on the main street of Tobermory and is run by volunteers. From fossils to shipwreck stories to the role of Mull in World War II, there is so much interesting information. 

Mull Museum is open from Easter until the end of October. Admission to the museum is free.

Tobermory Distillery

Tobermory Distillery is located on the Isle of Mull’s capital, Tobermory.

The distillery was established in 1798 and is the only distillery on the island and one of the oldest commercial distilleries in Scotland. Tobermory makes great Scottish whisky and gin.

One of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull is to visit one of the distilleries. Tobermory Distillery produces two alluring single malts – Tobermory and Ledaig. You can go to the Tobermory Distillery website for more information.

Mull and Iona Food Trail

Mull and Iona Food Trail is designed to showcase the delicious island produce which is available locally on the nearby Inner Hebridean islands including Ulva, Gometra and Erraid.

The aim of the food trail is to enjoy food which is grown, caught and produced on the Isle of Mull. The Mull and Iona Food Trail will take you back in time to before large supermarkets were in existence.

Here, you enjoy fresh fish, lamb from the croft, or delicious home baking. There are lovely scenic gardens which grow a wide range of wonderful fresh vegetables and fruits. 

Comar Arts

Comar is an arts organisation that produces, presents and develops creative work. Through the organisation artists and audiences are connected across Mull, Iona and beyond to share creativity and culture. 

In 2013, An Tobar and Mull Theatre merged together to create Comar. Interestingly, comar is Gaelic for ‘confluence’. Over 100 creative events occur a year on the Isle of Mull thanks to Comar. 

Aros Park 

Exploring the outdoors is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull. Aros Park is a beautiful area of woodland which is managed by the Forestry Commission and it is located on the outskirts of Tobermory.

Previously, the park was part of the Aros Estate. Walking trails are available which showcase the picturesque coastline.

Also, you can view the park’s Main Drive up to the Allain look-out tower.

Moreover, this route follows along the banks of Aros Burn up to a stunning waterfall with amazing views across to Tobermory, the Sound of Mull and Ardnamurchan peninsula.

Here, you will get a stunning view of the colourful buildings in Tobermory. You can follow the scenic coastal trail back to Tobermory by following the green way markers for 1 ¼ miles (2km) to reach Aros Park. 

Aros Castle

In the 13th century the MacDougall Lords of Lorn built this major stronghold to guard the shores of the Sound of Mull.

The castle which is also known as Dounarwyse Castle is now a ruin, with a small chapel beside it. Also, it is possible to walk around the ruins of the castle at your own risk. 

Exploring castles is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull. There is a car park beside the A848 road south of Aros Bridge, there is space near the post box and phone box. 

Shipwreck at Salen Beach

The shipwreck at Salen beach is a hidden gem on the Isle of Mull. The shipwreck is located in Salen Bay near Tobermory.

There are no signposts and there is a small layby where a couple of cars can park. The shipwrecks are perfect for a photo opportunity. 

Craignure Golf Club

A mile and a half north of the ferry port at Craignure, you will find Craignure Golf Club. The golf club surrounds the stunning Scallastle Bay.

Also, the course is one of the scenic places to play. Visitors are welcome to play golf on the green for £15.

Green fees can also be paid at the tourist office opposite the ferry pier. There is a limited number of clubs for hire. 

Duart Castle 

On the sea cliff on the Isle of Mull, you will find the 13th-century Duart Castle. The castle is in an extremely unique and stunning location on the west coast of Scotland.

Back in 1911, the castle was saved from ruin. Previously, the castle was one of the last surviving privately owned Clan Castles in Scotland.

For over 800 years the castle was home to the Macleans, one of Scotland’s oldest surviving clans. At the castle, you can explore the turbulent past of the clan, including the famous battles.

Also, you can stand under the blossoming Rowan Tree in the Castle Courtyard and admire the stone Clan Crest. Moreover, the castle has creepy dungeons with a ghostly history, banqueting hall and Edwardian State Rooms. 

Moy Castle

Moy Castle is a 15th-century castle which was built by Hector MacLean. The islands of Scotland have some of the most historically significant castles in the whole country.

The three-storey stronghold overlooks the tranquil Loch Buie and is surrounded by some beautiful scenery. Nearby you can visit the Lochbuie Standing Stones then relax by Loch Buie. 

Carsaig Arches

Carsaig Arches are an impressive set of sea arches which are one of the walking highlights on the Isle of Mull.

To get to Carsaig just take the signed road just west of Pennyghael and follow signs for Carsaig Pier. There is car parking with four or five car parking spaces near the pier. Also, this area is great to watch seals. 

From the car park follow the track along the no through road. Then head towards the beach.

Continue around the coast until Nun’s Cave makes an appearance on the pale cliff at the far end. Take care as you reach the arches, as the path gets extremely narrow and the cliffs are high. 

Outside the castle, you can enjoy the gorgeous views over the Sound of Mull. Also, there is breath taking scenery to take in at the castle grounds, nearby Millennium Wood and Duart Point.

There is car parking available. Tickets for entry to the castle cost £8.50 per adult.

Once you have enjoyed your visit you can enjoy some homemade food in the Duart Tearoom to buy a souvenir at the Macleans of Duart gift shop. 

Kilvickeon Beach

This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The beach is very remote, there are no amenities, the road is a bit rough, and the car park is only a small lay-by.

However, the views once you get to the beach are incredible with stunning white sand. The views on the Isle of Mull are some of the most wonderful green spaces in the Highlands.

When the tide is out you can reach the tidal island called Garbh Eilean. Also, there are great views out to Jura and Islay.

The backdrop includes rolling sand dunes with wildflowers and there is an Iron Age Fort towards the west of the beach. 

Uisken Beach

Uisken Beach is a stunning unspoilt sandy beach with rocky outcrops, offshore islands and the ‘last look back’ cairn. From this beach, the views out to the Colonsay and the Islands of Jura are stunning.

Relaxing on one of the calming beaches is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull. Scotland is so lucky to have so many beautiful beaches in the Inner Hebrides.

There is a small car park right on the beach. Also, you can camp on the beach for only £2 a night.

Ardalanish Beach

On a gorgeous clear sunny day, this beach can easily be mistaken for a beach from the Caribbean.

The car park for this beach is at the top of the cliff, therefore make sure you bring walking boots to get down to the beach.

Overnight camping is now available, but camping is only available for one night. 

Nearby Accommodation: The Stables

Knockvologan Beach is a large expanse of white sandy bays which are truly stunning. 

The beach is found on the southwest of the island on the way to Isle of Iona. Also, the beach is very remote, almost as isolated as the Outer Hebrides beaches. 

To get to the beach you can follow the road to Knockvologan Farm which is beyond Fidden.

You can park your car here and walk for ten minutes down the track. When the tide is out you get access to the tidal island of the Isle of Erraid. 

Fidden Beach

Fidden Beach is a beautiful beach with large sweeping white sands and pink granite rocky outcrops. Also, the beach is sheltered and offers a great place to paddle or swim. 

Market Bay

Market Bay is a stunning beach with immaculate white sands and crystal-clear sands. Also, Market Bay is known as Traigh Na Margaidh.

This bay is one of the few sandy beaches on the north side of the Ross of Mull. It is a 30-minute walk along the track from Camas.

This beach is so tranquil you will feel like you have the whole beach to yourself. Apparently, this location is where the Royal family have picnics. 

Ben More

Ben More is the only island Munro and is the only Munro that is not located on the Isle of Skye. The Munro offers the most spectacular views across the islands dotted on the west coast of Scotland. 

MacKinnon’s Cave

MacKinnon’s Cave is known as the longest sea cave in all the Hebrides, at around 500 feet in length. Before you set off to visit the cave make sure you pack a torch and check the tide times.

On the walk there are great views across the sea to Staffa, Ulva, Inch Kenneth and the distant but distinctive Dutchman’s Cap. 

As well as a dramatic coastline you will also get views of a high waterfall. The part of the walk is flooded by the sea for at least half of the day. 

Eas Fors Waterfall

Eas Fors Waterfall is one of the few and spectacular waterfalls on the Isle of Mull. The islands of Scotland are home to some of the best waterfalls in Scotland.

You can find the waterfall a couple of miles north of Ulva Ferry. From the waterfall, you can admire the views across Loch Tuath to the Island of Ulva. 

There is a small parking area before the bridge, and it is worth walking up the track to the upper falls where there is a safe viewing point. The upper falls are located above the road, the lower falls are located below the road. 

Be aware the area can be very dangerous when it is slippery. Also, you can walk half a mile towards the Ulva Ferry to get a spectacular viewpoint of the falls. 

Calgary Bay 

Calgary Beach is Mull’s most famous and popular beach and is a perfect beach for fishing or a swim. It is one of the largest beaches on the Isle of Mull, with parking close to one end of the beach.

Also, there is a campground area with toilet facilities. Additionally, Calgary Beach is the starting point for a superb coastal walk to Caliach Point. 

The islands of Scotland are home to some of the best beaches in the country.

Nearby Accommodation: Limetree Cottage

Langamull Beach

Towards the north of the island, you will find this hidden gem called. Langamull is one of the lesser known, but equally beautiful beaches on the Isle of Mull.

Langamull Beach features a glistening white shell beach with a couple of coves. Also, you can get views out to the Isle of Rum and Skye on a spectacularly clear day.

To get to the beach you can walk from the Forestry Enterprise car park and walk for 30 minutes. As an option, you can visit the ruined village of Kildavie on the way back. 

Tobermory Lighthouse

The lighthouse is located at Rubha nan Gall. Also, there are amazing views over the water to Ardnamurchan.

You can park in the main Ledaig car park, which is free and there are toilet facilities. 

The Crofter’s Kitchen and Gardens

On the road to Kintra, you will come across this unexpected hidden gem. There are some lovely, sweet treats, plenty of larders and fresh supplies. 

Isle of Iona

Isle of Iona is a tiny island off the southwest coast of Mull. The island measures 1.5 miles wide by 3 miles long and there are around 170 permanent residents.

The Isle of Iona has plenty of tranquil sandy beaches, amazing walking opportunities and a variety of wildlife to look out for. 

To get to the island you can catch a ferry from Fionnphort, there are no cars allowed on the island only for blue badge holders. The ferry is a four-minute journey across the sound of Iona. 

Isle of Erraid

Erraid is a tidal island of the southwest tip of the Ross of Mull. The island is owned by a family from overseas and is used by Findhorn Community.

Isle of Erraid has a disused lighthouse and has many beautiful bays including Balfour Bay. Erraid can be accessed from Knockvologan and Fidden. 

Isle of Ulva

Ulva is another neat island which is separated from Mull by a narrow strait. The island has fewer than ten inhabitants and can also be accessed by ferry. 

Isle of Staffa

The Isle of Staffa is located between Iona and Ulva. Staffa is best known for its distinct hexagonal basalt columns and is home to Fingal’s Cave To get to Staffa you can catch a ferry from Iona or Tobermory. 

Treshnish Isles

The Treshnish Isles is an area of small islands which is found on the southwest coast of Mull. The islands are best viewed near Treshnish Point or Port Haunn, south of Calgary Bay.

Also, the islands are visible on a clear day from Loch Tuath. The islands are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest due to the unique geomorphology, populations of seals, puffins, cliff and burrow-nesting seagulls. 

What is the Isle of Mull famous for?

The Isle of Mull has been featured on many nature and animal documentaries. Also, Tobermory influenced the setting for the children’s TV show – Balamory.

Additionally, the island is home to the rarest bird of prey in Britain, the white-tailed sea eagle.  

Is the Isle of Mull nice?

The Isle of Mull is one of the nicest islands on the west coast of Scotland. There are rugged mountains, grassy glens, stunning beaches and crystal-clear blue waters. 

Can you drive around the Isle of Mull?

Yes, you can drive around the Isle of Mull. The Isle of Mull is a perfect place to rent a car, drive your own car, cycle or drive a motorhome.

There are a lot of small, winding roads that take you through the gorgeous countryside. 

Sometimes the only traffic on the island is some sheep and cows. The busiest it is going to get is on a Saturday afternoon in Tobermory. 

Do people live on the Isle of Mull?

Yes, the population on the Isle of Mull is 3,000 people. The community is thriving, and you are guaranteed a great Scottish welcome.

Tobermory has most of the population. Also, there are plenty of other friendly villages to visit. 

Final Note

Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to visit the Isle of Mull. This post has listed some of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull.

You will feel very welcomed as the community here is very welcoming. The Isle of Mull is perfect for a road trip. 

There are so many things to see beyond Tobermory. Mull has many things to do including hill walking, relaxing on the beach, many woodlands and nature walks or paddling in the water. 

Mull is one of my favourite Scottish islands, Shetland and Orkney are also worth visiting.