Our Local Area

Mull

Mull is a truly magical place. It has a dramatic coastline and a variety of scenery, ranging from the high basaltic plateau of the north, to the rounded granite hills of the "Ross of Mull", in the south-west. The "Ross of Mull" is unspoiled by roads. This makes it an ideal destination for bird watching and observing the unique Hebridean wildlife, which roam free in their natural environment. Explore the many "white sandy" coves and beaches on the "Ross" and on Iona, which are washed by the waters of the Gulf Stream. Visiting the neighboring Islands below will also be a highlight for your holiday.

Iona

Iona is a sacred Isle, steeped in christianity and history. This famous Inner Hebridean island, only 3 miles long by a mile and a half wide, is accessible from a passenger ferry which runs between Fionnphort and Iona and takes approx 5 minutes. It possesses a unique atmosphere. Sanctuary from the bustle of life can be found at the famous abbey, which is the ancient burial ground for the forty-eight Scottish Kings.

Staffa

Staffa - (meaning "Pillar Island"), can be reached by a short boat trip. It is one of the natural geological wonders of the world. Fingal's Cave is the most spectacular feature and was made famous by Mendelssohn's Music. Boat trips from Mull & Iona during summer season, weather permitting, see links page

Bird watching and Wildlife

The Ross of Mull and adjacent offshore islands abound with interesting wildlife. Depending on the season, corncrakes can be heard and sometimes seen on Iona. The long indented coastline is the ideal place to watch oystercatchers, ringed plovers, common sandpipers, redshanks and curlews and the small flocks of whimbrel passing though on migration.

Predatory birds including Sea Eagle, Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier, Peregrine, Merlin and short eared owl can be observed at most times of the year. Wild greylag geese can be seen year round whilst in autumn and winter the rare greenland white-fronted geese are present.

Of special significance and particularly enjoyable to visit are the smaller offshore islands of Staffa and Treshnish. On Staffa puffins can be encountered at very close quarters, whilst at Treshnish visitors will be stunned by the sheer number of breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills, puffins, fulmars, shags, gulls and kittiwakes. Many visitors have been fortunate in recent years to have spectacular views of dolphins and porpoises with the occasional glimpse of a whale on their way to and from these islands.

Seals are commonplace along the sheltered rocky coves of the Ross of Mull. Otters occupy every available stretch of coastline and sitting patiently downwind can be rewarded by extremely close views of these fine creatures. Red Deer are abundant throughout Mull and can be watched from numerous places including the road system. Wildlife safaris are available, see links page

Flora and Fauna

Plant life is diverse and reflects the available habitats including, bog, moorland, calcareous grasslands woodlands, lochs and flower-rich machair. Lower plants, lichens, liverworts and mosses are of outstanding interest and are found mainly in the remaining remnants of Atlantic Oakwood's.