The 8 Best Things to Do on Isle of Mull + 2024/5 Ferry Information

Are you planning an adventure in the Inner Hebrides and looking for the best things to do on the Isle of Mull? Look no further! In this article, I let you in on my favorite places to go and things to do on the Isle of Mull, from my own experience. You’ll also learn the newest (as of 2024) Isle of Mull ferry information, and see the most FAQs about visiting the island.

These are the 8 best things to do on the Isle of Mull:

1. Visit Duart Castle
2. Find the Three Lochs Viewpoint
3. Hike up Ben More
4. Go on a drive to Salen via Eas Fors Waterfall
5. Hike the west coast at Treshnish and the Whisky Cave loop trail
6. Go to the beach in Calgary Bay
7. Hike from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara
8. Explore Tobermory

You are about to take a very Scottish and pretty amazing trip to the Isle of Mull
 

First off, let me congratulate you on making a truly fantastic choice of destination. Before I went, I didn’t expect much, but the Isle of Mull is incredibly scenic. In fact, I’d say that its wild, dramatic coastline rivals even that of the Isle of Skye. And when I was there in April, the grass was yellow and the mountains black, and I got a weirdly strong North America vibe (read on to find out exactly what I mean by this).

Wondering which Scottish island is better: the Isle of Mull or the Isle of Skye? Reading my Isle of Skye itinerary might help you make up your mind!

 

 

The best things to do on the Isle of Mull: map

Isle of Mull map: places of interest

 

Isle of Mull ferry information

The Isle of Mull is accessible from mainland Scotland only by ferry. Calmac operates several ferry routes to Mull: from Oban to Craignure, from Lochaline to Fishnish, and from Kilchoan to Tobermory. We took the ferry back and forth between Oban and Craignure as we were based in Oban. We wanted to stay in Oban because it’s the largest town in the area and the ferry ride only takes an hour, and since they provide car ferry services, it was easy to do. Like a little pre-visit boat tour.

On the other hand, the ride to Fishnish from Lochaline is much quicker at around 10 minutes, and it’s about half the price. The downside is that there’s less accommodation in Lochaline, so if you want to catch an early ferry, you’d likely need to stay in Fort William, which is around an hour and a half’s drive away.

A return trip with a car cost us about GBP 50 (USD 67). The ferry is fairly large, fitting about 40 cars, and unless it’s really windy or there are strong waves, it barely rocks. The boarding process is efficient, but bear in mind that check-in closes about 30 minutes before departure. Once you’re at the port, don’t expect a lot of guidance – it’s not the most user-friendly experience.

Our journey on the ferry was pleasant and we were lucky with the weather
 

Prepare for about an hour of sailing. We were lucky with the weather every time, but I can imagine rough seas causing more disruption. Be sure to book your tickets at least a month in advance, or even several months ahead if you’re traveling in the summer; we were very lucky to get tickets booking just a week out during the shoulder season.

And lastly, on a clear day, look out for Ben Nevis on one side of the ferry and Duart Castle on the other!

Ferry ports on the Isle of Mull and mainland Scotland

 

Isle of Mull hotel recommendation

We didn’t stay on the island itself, but in nearby Oban—a charming harbor town with easy access by ferry to Mull. I can definitely recommend the Oban Bay Hotel for its spacious, homely rooms, plus, the bed was super comfortable and the breakfast was great.

 

 

If you really want to stay on the Isle of Mull, Tobermory would be your best base. Or, if you’ve got the money, check out the apartments at Glengorm Castle..

 

Weather on the Isle of Mull

Don't underestimate clothing suitable for wet and windy conditions in Scotland. Look how well dressed I am!
 

Lastly, before I get into the details of my picks, we need to talk about something important: Scottish weather. There’s no sugar-coating it: it’s windy and it’s rainy, especially on the islands in the west, so you need to invest in some waterproof and windproof clothing.

Having said this, it might not be as cold on the Isle of Mull as you imagine; did you know that the warm Gulf Stream current has a major impact on the climate of the Hebrides? I mean, don’t expect it to be like Tenerife in June, but the conditions aren’t as teeth-chattering as some wimps make out. If you go in the summer, you might even get what Scottish people call “taps-aff” temperatures!

 

 

These are the best things to do on the Isle of Mull in 2024/5...

 

1. Visit Duart Castle

Duart Castle. Sadly, we chose the wrong day and didn’t get inside :(
 

• Price: GBP 10 (USD 13.34)
• Opening hours: 10:30 am–4:00 pm; Friday to Wednesday (April and beginning–mid-October), daily (May–September)
• Website: https://duartcastle.com/

No trip to the Isle of Mull would be complete without a visit to Duart Castle… except when it’s closed, which was the case on the Thursday we stopped by. I wasn’t sure what magic combination of days and times opens those ancient gates, and I was frustrated that we hadn’t managed to crack the code.

(Later on, I found out that it’s open seven days a week only in the summer; Thursday is their day off in April and October. Note to self: always double-check with Professor Google.)

However, from where I was standing, the backdrop was still seriously photogenic. Even without stepping inside the castle, I was greeted by sweeping views of the Sound of Mull, legendary rocky coastlines, and plenty of sheep looking unimpressed by us, yet more visitors. If the weather’s even slightly cooperative, you’ll find yourself channeling your inner Outlander star, minus the time-travel and intense drama. I could almost imagine an extra strolling by in a kilt.

At least we did a photoshoot and got to meet a Scottish cow. My girlfriend loved its hair!
 

As for the castle itself? Parts of it were being renovated when we were there. This is standard; Scottish castles always seem to be "undergoing maintenance" like it’s some sort of national pastime. I obviously can’t say much about the interior (nor do I really feel I missed out), but Duart does have the charm of a classic medieval fortress. Thick stone walls, a moody setting, and the fact that it’s the seat of Clan Maclean all make it historically significant.

Honestly, if you’ve seen one Scottish castle, you’re reasonably prepared for what’s inside: armory displays, creaky floors, and so much tartan that your eyes hurt. Still, Duart Castle is one of the main sites of interest on the Isle of Mull, and so it’d be rude to ignore it.

 

2. Find the Three Lochs Viewpoint

Look at this amazing view! (behind me...)
 

The Three Lochs Viewpoint is one of the (many) places that makes you feel like Scotland is flexing, and frankly, I’m here for it. On a rare day when the rain and the clouds let up on the Isle of Mull, we were treated to jaw-dropping views that made every winding, single-lane road and questionable GPS direction worth it.

From this panoramic perch, we got an unobstructed, dramatic sweep of not one, not two, but three lochs (if you figured this out from the name, well done, you’re too smart). They all sparkle below—as long as it’s sunny—and the towering Ben More lurks in the background for that extra cinematic touch.

I always had to jump out of the car and take a picture because the scenery had to be documented
 

Several hikes begin from the Three Lochs Viewpoint, so if you want to stretch your legs before heading back to your car for more scenic drives, go indulge. But even if you’re not up for walking further, just standing there and soaking in the view was enough to take my breath away. I felt like I’d stumbled upon one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. Except it’s not a secret at all—this place does get a lot of tourists, and sure enough, there they were, shuffling around right in front of me. (I hate the "hidden gems” anyway. They’re “hidden” for a reason.)

 

3. Hike up Ben More

Map of the Ben More hike (see more details on Alltrails)
 

• Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) 
• Elevation gain:  990 m (3,200 ft) 
• Difficulty: Hard 
• Hiking time: 8–9 hours
• Trailhead: Google Maps link to trailhead

Hiking the highest peak on the Isle of Mull is a real leg-burner, not for the faint-hearted. The thought was too much for me on one of my more leisurely vacations. But I’m told by my trusted sources that the sense of accomplishment is satisfying, and the views from the top are fabulous, again, as long as it’s good weather.

Fun fact: Ben More is the island’s only Munro (any mountain in Scotland over 3,000 ft [914.4 m]). It rises sharply to 966 m (3,169 ft), with a route that’s boggy, steep, and rugged. The hike is around 9.5 km (6 mi) out-and-back, taking three to five hours, depending on your pace and the number times you stop to take a photo. The climb starts near Dhiseig on the shore of Loch na Keal and takes you straight up—no gentle switchbacks here.

Tip: if you attempt to climb Ben More, don’t forget to take food and water with you. And for the love of God, get some proper gear. Don’t think you can do it in your jean jacket and a pair of sneakers—it’ll only end in tears!

The Ben More hike
 

The final push can be tough, but hopefully, your reward will be worth it. On a sunny day, the panoramic views at the summit are seriously incredible, stretching across the island and beyond.

However, if somehow, you haven’t gotten the message by now: be prepared for unpredictable Hebridean weather—Ben More is often shrouded in cloud like a kind of giant lavish cocktail you get at those pretentious bars. But overall, if you want a challenge when it comes to things to do on the Isle of Mull, you need look no further than this hike.

 

 

4. Go on a drive to Salen via Eas Fors Waterfall

 

See the route from the Three Lochs Viewpoint to Salen via Eas Fors Waterfall on Google Maps
 

• Start of the drive: Three Lochs Viewpoint
• End of the drive: Salen
• Driving distance: 69 km (43 mi)
• Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

When we went up to the Three Lochs Viewpoint, we actually used it as the starting point for a scenic route around the island. But this wasn’t just any old drive, oh no; this drive was a real scenic rollercoaster of landscapes.

One moment, I felt like I could be on California’s rugged coastline (if California were a lot damper and colder). The next, I was surrounded by dramatic, almost canyon-like valleys, all wrapped in Mull’s moody skies. The narrow, winding roads hug cliffs and meander through mountain passes, offering constant views of lochs and peaks. Well, what else did you come to the Hebrides for?!

A highlight pit-stop for me was the viewing area over the bay at the edge of Loch na Keal. Here, you get a perfect mix of fjord-like waters framed by the hills. And Eas Fors, the triple-layered spectacular waterfall, are an absolute must. The water practically tumbles straight into the sea. I hadn’t seen anything like it before.

It was something that made me feel serene, awe-inspired, and sort of like I needed to use the bathroom. But above all, Eas Fors Waterfall is a thing of rugged beauty that’s distinctly Scottish. Totally my sort of thing!

Rugged beauty!
 

As we continued toward the village of Salen, the landscape softened into typical countryside scenes, with cute cottages dotting the coastline and cows and sheep dotting the fields. Salen itself? It has a church, a post office, and not much else. It never ceases to amaze me how people in this part of the world live in such tiny places...

The whole drive feels like The Best of Mull, Mull’s Greatest Hits, Mull: The Anthology (okay, you get the idea). It was a very great, stress-free way to see all of the island’s varied epic landscapes in less than half a day.

Looking for more scenic drives in Scotland? Check out more of my favorites right here...

 

5. Hike the west coast at Treshnish and the Whisky Cave loop trail

Map of the Treshnish Coast and the Whisky Cave loop trail (see more details on Alltrails)
 

• Distance: 10.6 km (6.6 mi) 
• Elevation gain:  273 m (896 ft) 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Hiking time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Trailhead: Google Maps link to trailhead

If you don’t have the stamina for Ben More but you’re still looking to take a good hike on the Isle of Mull, opt for Treshnish and Whisky Cave loop on the west coast. Give-or-take 11 km (7 mi) of rugged cliffs, abandoned villages, and a bonus, secret cave of whisky? This is truly the Scottish bingo card of all hiking trails.

Starting from a quarry (where there’s a small parking lot), you follow a path that takes you along the cliffs, with views of the puffin-packed Treshnish Isles. Getting sight of a puffin colony is a rare treat for me—I always thought they were striking things. I see them as the bird embodiment of the 2000s scene kid, with their almost-neon orange trimmings and eyeliner wings extending to the sides of their heads.

But the very best bit of the hike is the so-called whisky cave, which you reach by awkwardly sliding down a wet slope. It’s perfectly safe—if a bit muddy—as long as you don’t think too hard about it!

Enjoy the hike!
 

Inside the cave, you’ll find the remains of a still, once used for making illicit whisky. I’m sure the locals would’ve had the time of their lives in this damp hovel, hiding from the tax officers. Alas, there were no reserves anymore of the legendary brew itself (I checked).

On the return, you’ll pass some abandoned houses, probably once belonging to the moonshine-makers before they were eventually caught by the tax man. (Remember, kids, crime doesn’t pay, and alcohol will ruin you!) The path turns boggy in parts, but as we know, nothing says “authentic Scottish wilderness experience” like squelching through the mud with the wind in your face. Still, for me, the views and the quirky history made every soggy step of this hike worth it.

 

6. Go to the beach in Calgary Bay

Calgary Bay
 

• Website: https://www.calgary.co.uk/calgary-beach/

The Isle of Mull’s Calgary Bay is somewhere special. It made me question whether I was still in Scotland, or I’d somehow been teleported to the Caribbean. White sand, turquoise water—it’s got all the makings of a tropical paradise... it’s almost unbelievable that you would find a place like this on Mull’s west coast!

Tip: if you’re a boomer and you still send people postcards from your vacation, pick ones that have a picture of Calgary Bay on them. More people need to know that Britain can look like this!

Who knew Isle of Mull had stunning beaches?!

The beach is machair, a Gaelic word to describe coastal grassy plains, and it’s as mystical as the name sounds. On a nice day, the sand heats up under the sun, making it surprisingly cozy for a picnic. I swear, the water even felt warmer than the air—big up the Gulf Stream.

If you're wondering, yes, you’ll see locals swimming regardless of the air or water temperature. Scots are just built differently—wetsuits and weather forecasts be damned. And if you’re still wondering, no, I only dipped my toes in. I mean, the water temperature was 19°C (66.2°F) on the day we went in April — practically a Turkish bath! I just wasn't prepared; I didn’t have my towel.

Feel free to disconnect and gaze out at the views
 

Another great thing about this spot is that you can’t get enough signal for the internet on your phone. This beach offers a perfect opportunity to disconnect—not just from your inbox, but from reality itself as you gaze out at the stunning views.

The nearby parking lot operates on an honesty system. Pay up, because this is one of the most beautiful beaches not just in Scotland, but in the whole of the UK, and you’ll want to support keeping it that way.

 

7. Hike from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara

Map of the Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara trail (see more details on Alltrails)
 

• Distance: 3.7 km (2.3 mi) 
• Elevation gain:  68 m (223 ft) 
• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Hiking time: 1 hour
• Trailhead: Google Maps link to trailhead

The hike from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara is a short adventure consisting of ancient ruins, sea views, and a whole lot more of that Hebredian charm. The route starts at the impressive Glengorm Castle, which does look like something out of a fairytale, however clichéd it is to say that. It seems it’s been tidied up relatively recently, and now it contains luxury self-catering accommodation! I wish I’d known about this before we booked our hotel in Oban—I’d been led to believe that there weren’t any good places to stay on Mull.

Anyway, back to the hike. This is a relaxed walk, just 3.7 km (2.3 mi) out-and-back, which you could easily do in less than an hour. As far as hiking trails go, it’s much more “stretch-your-legs” than “why did I agree to this?”.

From Glamour Castle, we first followed a grassy path past fields of sheep and Highland cows. Then, we passed a trio of standing stones that could’ve once been used in some sort of giant Celtic Jenga game. Not that they looked very moveable; they were even taller than I am!

Glengorm Castle
 

Finally, the path winds towards the coast, where views of the nearby Ardnamurchan peninsula and the islands of Coll and Tiree stretched out before us. Dùn Ara itself is just a small, ruined hill fort perched on a rocky outcrop. Getting to the top required some scrambling, but the panoramic views were worth it, even if there’s not much left of the fort.

On the way down, you can explore the nearby “bathing pool”—essentially a natural sea pool that might tempt you for a dip, if you’re feeling particularly brave (we weren’t).

If Ben More were the daddy hike and Treshnish Coast-Whisky Cave loop were the mommy hike, the Isle of Mull’s baby hike would be this one from Glengorm Castle to Dùn Ara. You’re Goldilocks—now you know about all three, pick the one that’s “just right” for you.

 

8. Explore Tobermory

Take your time to explore Tobermory
 

Last on my list of the best things to do on the Isle of Mull, a trip to Tobermory—it's a must-do! Here’s a quick overview of what to do there:

• See the colorful waterfront houses
   
• Have lunch in a former church
   
• Go on a distillery tour for whisky and gin tastings
   
• Try the award-winning cheeses at Isle of Mull Cheese shop

Tobermory is the island’s iconic capital, known for its colorful waterfront houses that wouldn’t look out of place as the backdrop for a Gay Pride parade. This charming harbor town is small—only around 1,000 people live here—but it’s packed with character. I’d say it’s an absolute must for anyone vacationing on Mull, probably more than anything else on this list.

Fun fact: a very successful kids’ TV show from the early 2000s was set in Tobermory. “Balamory” revolved around different characters who lived in the different-colored houses, and it remains a major cultural reference point for Gen Z in Britain.

If you’re stopping in Tobermory for a bite to eat, give yourself at least an hour—longer if you get caught up in the fascinating local tradition of restaurants housed in converted churches. Yes, as if the pretty paintwork by the harbor wasn’t enough, dining with a stained-glass backdrop is just another quirky perk of this place!

Ice cream and fish and chips in Tobermory is a must!
 

We, though, opted for fish and chips at HOOK’D. Fresh fish, thick chips, not too oily, just the right amount of salt and vinegar. What more can I say? 10 out of 10.

If you’re up for a deeper dive into the local culture (and spirits), don’t miss out on the Tobermory Distillery. We took a carefully-guided tour through their process of crafting their signature whisky and gin, and there were plenty of opportunities for tastings, which made me very happy! Gotta love a good distillery tour! Tip: if you’re driving, definitely give yourself the whole day in the town after the tour, or even consider staying the night.

Another fun fact: Tobermory Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland, operating since 1798, so history buffs will feel right at home, too.

We also took a detour to the Isle of Mull Cheese shop, just outside town, and were rewarded with more free samples. Their award-winning cheeses are made on-site and pair beautifully with that sweet ‘n’ smoky whisky. We just had to come away with some. I won’t tell you how much we spent—it’s a bit embarrassing.

Tobermory is the capital of Isle of Mull
 

But take note: because of Brexit and the EU’s strict regulations on importing animal products, if you live in the EU like I do, you’ll have to eat it all before you go back home. What a bummer!

Although Tobermory’s such a small place, there are other interesting things to do that we didn’t get a chance to visit, such as:

• Mull Museum (website)
• Tobermory Lighthouse
• Island Blue Gallery, a 15-minute walk outside the town (website)

 

 

Visit the Isle of Mull: FAQs

When you come to plan your trip, look over these answers to some of the most common questions about traveling to the Isle of Mull.

 

Is the Isle of Mull worth visiting?

Yes, the Isle of Mull is definitely worth visiting for its wonderfully moody landscapes, rich wildlife, and historical sites. There are lots of things to do on the Isle of Mull, such as visiting Duart Castle, hiking Ben More, picnicking on the stunning Calgary Beach, and wandering around Tobermory. If you’re planning a trip to Scotland and you’re going to be in the Hebrides, don’t skip out on Mull!

It's not easy to win my admiration, but the Isle of Mull has clearly won it

 

How do you get around the Isle of Mull?

Having a car is a must on the Isle of Mull. If you want to visit any of the Hebrides and you don’t drive, you’re going to have a very difficult, if not impossible time.

Keep in mind that most roads on Isle of Mull are single-track, so the locals have an amazing skill in passing one another leaving the tiniest gaps. Scots are courteous and will often let you through first. To get around the whole island, expect to drive around 200 km (124 mi) on single-lane roads. The good news is that there’s very little traffic.

I recommend renting a car from Arnold Clark. They offer great service, and their staff are super friendly.

 

When is the best time to visit the Isle of Mull?

By far, the best time to visit Mull is the summer: from May to September, when the weather is milder, and wildlife such as puffins and dolphins are most active. These months also offer longer daylight hours, making it the optimum time to explore and get the most out of your stay.

Head to the Isle of Mull during May to September and you won't have to shiver in the cold

 

Where is best to stay on the Isle of Mull?

As I mentioned, we didn’t stay on the Isle of Mull itself, but in nearby Oban—a nearby town with easy access by ferry to Mull. I recommend the Oban Bay Hotel for its spacious and homely rooms, plus, the bed was comfortable and the breakfast was great. We paid around GBP 140 (USD 187) per night to stay there.

 

 

If you really want to stay on the Isle of Mull, Tobermory would be your best base. Or, if you’ve got the money, check out the apartments at Glengorm Castle.
 

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