The Ross of Mull

Introduction

The tip of the Ross of Mull has its own unique granite scenery with small and often steep rounded hills, narrow inlets and sandy beaches. There are very few trees. It is ideal for energetic but not necessarily strenuous walking. Birds and other wild-life are abundant.

About three miles east of Fionnphort the rock changes to Moine Schist, and the scenery is a bit gentler and more wooded. Around Bunessan it changes again to the basalt lava which forms most of the surface of Mull.

Beaches

At low tide the beaches at Uisken, Ardanlanish and Knockvologan provide wide expanses of white sand ideal for children and dogs. From Knockvologan at low tide you can walk to the tidal island of erraid, famous as the setting for 'Kidnapped' (but watch the tide !).

Ross of Mull Historical Centre

The Ross of Mull Historial Centre (ROMHC) is next to the Community Centre beside the road into Bunessan. There you will find a wealth of information about the history and people of the Ross and Iona. Many visitors from overseas find it an invaluable resource for tracing their forbears.

Walking Guides for the Ross of Mull

ROMHC publish a comprehensive set of seven walking guides to the Ross. We keep a reference set at Maolbhuidhe for visitors, and you can buy them at ROMHC, Craignure Tourist Information Centre, and other shops locally.

Across the water

Iona is just a short ferry ride from Fionnphort, Staffa a little further, with regular trips by local boats to see Fingal's Cave (April-October). You can also visit the Treshnish Isles nature reserve, and see Puffins close up during their breeding season (May-early August).

Further afield

The walk from Carsaig (17 miles by car) to Carsaig Arches (four miles each way) along the foot of towering cliffs is well worth the challenge on a fine day. Carsaig itself is an attractive bay with stunning views south to Jura, Islay amd Colonsay. You can also walk eastwards to Lochbuie.

If you fancy bagging a 'Munro', Ben More (at 3168ft/966m, the highest hill on Mull) offers a straighforward but long climb from sea level at Dhiseag (about 25 miles by car).