Isle of Mull
The Isle of Mull is the second largest of the Inner Hebrides, lying off the west coast of Scotland and separated from the mainland by the Sound of Mull. Covering nearly 900 square kilometres of mountains, sea lochs, moorland and ancient woodland, Mull offers one of the richest and most varied wildlife experiences in Britain alongside a landscape of dramatic beauty that has been drawing visitors for generations. The island is exceptional for wildlife. White-tailed eagles, the largest birds of prey in Britain with wingspans reaching up to 2.4 metres, soar over the moorland in increasing numbers since their successful reintroduction to Scotland. Golden eagles are also present, along with hen harriers, peregrines and a host of other raptors that make Mull genuinely one of the best places in Britain for birds of prey watching. Otters are seen regularly along the seaweed-fringed coastlines, hunting in the kelp beds at low tide. The surrounding waters support common porpoise, bottlenose dolphins and, seasonally, minke whales and basking sharks, making boat trips from the island's harbours a worthwhile investment. Tobermory, the island's main town, is instantly recognisable from its row of brightly painted waterfront buildings reflected in the sheltered harbour waters. The town developed as a planned settlement in 1788 and has retained its compact, characterful character. It serves as a natural base for exploring the island and has a good selection of accommodation, restaurants and shops. Local boat operators offer wildlife cruises from the harbour throughout the summer season. The island holds strong historical connections. The ruined Duart Castle, seat of the Maclean clan, stands on a headland at the entrance to the Sound of Mull and is one of the most atmospheric castle settings in Scotland. A short drive south brings visitors to Loch Buie, where a Bronze Age stone circle stands in one of the most serene and beautiful settings imaginable. The Carsaig Arches on the southern coast, accessible only on foot, are spectacular basalt sea arches carved by the Atlantic. Mull is also the jumping-off point for two of Scotland's most significant island destinations. The tiny island of Iona, a twenty-minute ferry crossing from Fionnphort, was the site of Saint Columba's sixth-century monastery and remains a place of profound spiritual significance visited by thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year. The dramatic uninhabited island of Staffa, with its famous Fingal's Cave, a vast basalt sea cave whose hexagonal columns inspired Mendelssohn's Hebrides Overture, can be reached by boat from several points on Mull during the summer season.