We will be on the Isle of Mull in late August-4 nights/3 full days-based in Tobermory. How do we fit in Ulva, Staffa, Iona, Tobermory (other sites-suggestions?) so we can enjoy to the fullest what Mull has to offer? I am thinking we should dedicate a complete day to Tobermory and nearby area. What recommendations can you share for the other 2 days? How would we time our visits to Iona/Ulva? Is Staffa a must see? What do we need to reserve now (we do have lodging). Thanks, once again for the wonderful input.
Posted by
Denver, CO
841 posts
I have only been to Tobermory, but just wanted to say how much I think you'll love it! Mull is wonderful.
Edited to add: the An Tobar Café has fantastic views over the water. It's bit of an uphill walk, but worth it for the views.
Posted by
Delaware
1640 posts
Hi, losrichins,
First of all, the roads on Mull are deceptive. What appears to be a short distance on the map will take you more time than you think, as the main A848/A849 road is primarily single track with passing places, and the two west coast roads, B8073 and B8035, are narrower. The good news, though, is that the roads are well maintained, so you won't encounter any major potholes.
The amount of time that you spend on Ulva will be determined by how much hiking you plan to do. There are several good trails, the main one of which will take you out to the neighboring island of Gometra. If I remember correctly, you can get a trail map at The Boathouse, which is an excellent restaurant, by the way. Last time we were on Ulva, we found toilet facilities at The Boathouse and the church, although now that the bothy bunkhouse is open, that's probably another possibility.
You could actually spend a full day on Ulva, but you don't want to miss the beach at Calgary, which you'll pass on the way there. After you leave Ulva, and are heading toward Salen on the B8073, you may find an eagle watch on the shores of Loch na Keal. It's easily identifiable by the group of cars and people set up with long range telescopes. If you ask, they'll probably let you have a look.
Depending on your timing, if you turn right on the A849, you can visit Duart Castle. Check out the views from the battlements, especially if there's a ferry coming in from Oban. The castle is open until 5:00 p.m.
Tobermory to Fionnphort is a little over an hour, if you're going directly. Once you get to Iona, the length of time you spend there will be determined by how much hiking you'd like to do. The walk up Dun I will reward you with great views, if the weather is clear.
There are two main tour companies sailing to Staffa: Staffa Tours, which departs from Tobermory at 9:45 a.m., and Staffa Trips, which departs from Fionnphort at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. The first one gives time ashore on Staffa for a visit to Fingal's Cave, and time ashore on Lunga; the second gives time ashore on Staffa - I'm not sure about Lunga. The Staffa Tours is a six hour trip; Staffa Trips is three hours, as Fionnphort is closer to Staffa. Contrary to what you may have heard, the Staffa Trips vessel is not operated by Alan Hale and Bob Denver.
Whether you want to take the boat(s) out to Staffa will depend a lot on the weather. If the weather is really windy, you may be limited to a non landing tour.
If there are any performances at the Mull Little Theatre, you should check it out. You'll find plenty of places to eat and drink on Mull, including the very good fish & chip van at the harbour in Tobermory.
If you plan to do much hiking on Mull, there are walks of all difficulty levels. Best to check out the Walk Highlands website to see what you might enjoy.
Have a great time on Mull! I'm sure that others will check in with their observations.
Best wishes, and safe travels!
Mike (Auchterless)
Posted by
Glasgow
92 posts
Mull is absolutely wonderful and to be honest, I increasingly prefer it to Skye (which I do love.)
A day exploring Tobermory and the north for me, would take in Calgary Bay which as said, is a bit of a must see; it’s gorgeous.I would also walk out beyond the glorious white sand beach along an obvious and good path which takes you up onto the higher ground above the bay and meanders out easily to Calgary Point.
Langamull beach is also a lovely walk but I’d choose Calgary if time is tight.Do try to explore the Loch Tuath/Loch na Keal area of Mull which is easily reached from Calgary Bay(where there is also one of my favourite cafes at Calgary Arts Centre.)
The cafe run by Glengorm Castle is top notch for light lunches and home baking and is also the start of a lovely easy walk to an ancient Dun (Dun Ara) which sits atop a small crag by the coast.The views are just gorgeous all the way, even if the mild clamber onto the Dun itself doesn’t appeal.
There is also an excellent walk out to the Lighthouse from Tobermory itself on a high level path.Orca have been seen from here too.
To me, the boat trip to Staffa is a must do but it does need a decent weather day.You will need to book in advance but keep an eye on the forecast in the run up to your trip in case adjusting it by a day makes sense(and if places are available.) Staffa trips go from Ulva Ferry, Tobermory and Fionnphort (Iona ferry).It’s entirely possible to see something of wonderful Iona for half a day then join the Staffa boat as trips go out twice a day at least.
The Iona ferry at Fionnphort will take you around 1hr 40 from Tobermory, going the most direct route via Craignure.The Iona ferry is not bookable - pedestrians only.
Ulva used to be a must visit place for us but I thought the Boathouse restaurant had gone downhill last time we visited - perhaps it has improved since that visit 2 years ago.I hope so.
For more on Mull, my own take in more detail is in the link below:
https://annestravelsandhikes.com/2018/01/14/the-isle-of-mull-a-skye-alternative/