Exploring the Wild Side of Mull
We recently returned from a week on the Isle of Mull, one of Scotland’s most beautiful and wildlife-rich islands. Based in the charming town of Tobermory, our base was the historic Western Isles Hotel, perched above the bay with views across to Calve Island. From here, we set out each day to explore every corner of the island and beyond.
First Impressions
Getting to the Isle of Mull is part of the adventure. After a scenic drive past Loch Lomond and a ferry crossing from Oban to Craignure – where we had our first views of Great Northern Divers in full summer plumage – we arrived at the hotel just in time for an evening meal overlooking the bay. We were off to a great start.
A Land of Wild Corners and Rugged Beauty
Mull’s varied volcanic landscape – a mix of Atlantic woodland, moorland, coastline and craggy hills – delivered a little of everything. We explored the island in three distinct regions, giving us a chance to experience the diversity of habitats and the rich mix of wildlife they support. Alongside general wildlife watching, we had several special days out targeting some of Mull’s star species – including Otters and Eagles, plus seabirds on offshore trips to Iona, Staffa, and Lunga.
Raptor Central
The Isle of Mull really is a raptor haven. White-tailed Eagles and Golden Eagles were seen regularly, including a couple of brilliant close flyovers. Hen Harriers were also a daily presence, with both males and females spotted across open moorland. We even managed a couple of Short-eared Owls, along with Kestrel, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and the occasional Peregrine.
Otters and Other Mammals
Otters put on a show more days than not – our best view was a relaxed male along Loch na Keal who gave us a full 30 minutes. Another highlight was a lone otter sheltering under the ferry slipway at Craignure in front of an awestruck audience.
We also had Red, Roe and Fallow Deer, a Pine Marten crossing a road in daylight (a real surprise), and Harbour Porpoise close inshore near the Tobermory lighthouse walk
Day Trips to Iona, Staffa & Lunga
Our island-hopping days were real highlights. Iona delivered brilliant views of Corncrake – three different sightings of this secretive bird, each in slightly surreal settings (on a garden wall, crossing a lawn, or skulking through irises).
A boat trip to Staffa gave us sunshine, calm seas and a close-up of the dramatic basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave, with Puffins, Purple Sandpipers, and Great Skuas thrown in. But it was Lunga that stole the show.
On Lunga, you’re literally surrounded by Puffins, Razorbills, and Guillemots – birds everywhere, calling, displaying and flying right past your head. It’s an immersive experience like no other. Just magical.
What We’ll Remember
The mix of dramatic scenery, rich wildlife, and the friendly vibe of Tobermory made this trip a real standout. From eagles over the lochs to seabirds in their noisy colonies, every day brought something special. Mull continues to be one of our favourite wildlife destinations – and if you’ve never been, we can’t recommend it enough.