Details
Isle of Mull Wildlife
The Hebridean Isle of Mull is Scotland’s mecca for wildlife enthusiasts. Its many miles of coastline boast fantastic sandy beaches – particularly at Calgary and Ardalanish – while off-shore is one of Europe’s prime habitats for whales and dolphins, not to mention seals and porpoises. Majestic golden eagles and huge white-tailed eagles soar overhead – provided you know where to look – while otters make their dens around the loch shores and deer nuzzle on the hillsides.
Accompanied by knowledgeable local guides both onshore and offshore, you’ll have the best possible opportunity to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. You’ll also have time at leisure to explore the island as you wish – whether that’s further wildlife spotting, putting your new-found skills into practice, or going for a long stroll along near-deserted coastline. You could even choose to take advantage of the local shopping delights in and around the main town of Tobermory.
Day One
Your holiday starts with a memorable ferry trip from Oban, on the West Coast of Scotland, to the island of Mull, your base for the next four days.
Day Two
Today’s full-day ‘wildlife safari’ will not only introduce you to Mull’s most spectacular wildlife hotspots, but is a great way to explore some of the more remote and hidden scenic highlights of this wildly beautiful island. Your friendly and knowledgeable guides will take you to the best wildlife spots, tucked away in secret locations that you would never otherwise discover. Look out for golden eagles soaring in silent glens and swooping down to protect their chicks….white tailed sea eagles hunting in coastal bays… black, red and great northern divers… hen harriers gliding over scrub and marshes… merlin and peregrine falcon stooping for prey… otters, seals and perhaps even porpoises sunning themselves in seaweed-strewn bays. There is always plenty of wildlife to look out for and enjoy some of the most glorious scenery in the world. Coffee and tea are supplied en route and binoculars are provided.
Day Three
Spotting a whale in the wild is still one of the greatest thrills in nature. Your Mull wildlife holiday includes a full day whale-watch boat trip in co-operation with one of the UK’s most experienced companies. All trips are part of an active research programme focused on minke whales and contributing directly to marine conservation. Marine biologists on board will help you spot minke whales and porpoises. These waters are also frequented by several different species of dolphins and increasingly by the perfectly harmless basking shark. The sight of the pointy fin has nevertheless been known to make people shudder and start humming the Jaws theme. Rarer, but occasional visitors, are magnificent Orca (killer whales). You will spend about six hours at sea, perhaps landing on a remote island or cove, with chances to view sleek seals at close quarters, while experiencing the peace and tranquillity of this remarkable corner of the British Isles.
Day Four
Day at leisure, perhaps to practice new-found bird spotting skills, or to explore the coastline, beaches and mountains of the island. If you have a car, you may also consider a day trip to the peaceful and spiritual neighbouring island of Iona.
Day Five
Return by ferry to the mainland taking special memories and newly-discovered skills with you.
Hotel Option A – Dervaig
This cosy 17th century droving inn, is ideally situated between Tobermory and Calgary in the pretty Victorian village of Dervaig. Popular with the locals, who come from far and wide to soak up its convivial atmosphere, this is a place where visitors can enjoy traditional island hospitality, regular live music and wholesome highland fayre. Hearty meals and lighter bar snacks both feature fresh seafood and the finest Mull beef and venison. Accommodation (including family rooms) is quietly situated away from the hustle and bustle of the bar, and residents can escape to a private lounge/TV room with glorious views over the village and glen.
Hotel Option B – Tobermory
Small but perfectly formed, and resides amidst Tobermorys elegant conservation area. High above the harbour, you can escape the village bustle yet are still just a short walk from Main Street. Sweeping views across the bay can be enjoyed from large comfortable sofas in one of the two guest lounges. With just six small, but beautifully furnished, bedrooms two even have a four-poster bed the friendly owners aim to make your stay a rather luxurious home from home.
Hotel Option C – Glengorm Castle
Do you dream of staying in a romantic Scottish castle, far from the cares of the world, with nooks and crannies and turrets and sweeping sea views? Make that dream reality, but without the stuffiness and airs and graces you might expect. Here, you will receive a very warm welcome – you are not just a visitor, but a special guest in a family home. The owners are passionate about the whole estate, and take great pride in introducing you to its many delights – from the café and coffee shop secluded in the grounds to the wonderful wildlife, from the Victorian bathing pools by the seashore to the distinctive volcano on the ridge.
Pricing
Option A – Dervaig: £495 per person for April, £550 per person for May to September.
Option B – Tobermory: £645 per person for April, £695 per person for May to September.
Option C – Glengorm Castle: £650 per person for April, £685 per person for May to September
All prices based on two people sharing a twin/double room.
Single occupancy supplements are £120 staying in Dervaig and £230 if staying in Tobermory.
Price includes:
- 4 nights’ accommodation based on two adults sharing a twin or double room ensuite on a bed & breakfast basis.
- Return ferry crossing for a car and two adult passengers.
- Full day wildlife tour with a naturalist, including picnic lunch.
- Full day whale-watching trip, with six hours at sea – bring your own packed lunch for this.
This holiday is perfectly feasible using public transport, providing you choose to stay in Tobermory. There is a regular train and bus service from Glasgow to Oban, from where you can travel as a foot passenger. Local bus services connect with selected ferries and take you direct to Tobermory. The price for this holiday without a car is £655 per person in April, £710 per person May to September, based on two sharing a double room ensuite in Tobermory. This includes return train travel from Glasgow.
Family Mull Wildlife Experience
We can also offer a similar holiday for families, with a four hour whale-watch and full day wildlife safari, staying in family rooms in the Dervaig hotel option. Prices start from £1375 for a family of four. Contact us for more details.
(Note that the wildlife excursions described are not really suitable for children under the age of 7, but we would be happy to tailormake a trip in this case.)
Note for wildlife trips:
We of course cannot guarantee that you will see any of the wildlife described – these are wild animals and as such cannot be called to order. No refund will be made if you are not lucky enough to see the animals described, despite the very best efforts of the guides.
Before your departure, you will receive personalised holiday information including full directions, recommended routes, and suggestions on places to visit depending on your interests and our local knowledge to help you get the most from your holiday. Included will be some information on the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust to help you learn more about their work in conserving whales, dolphins and porpoises in Western Scotland, along with how you can help their efforts with their “Whale Track” app and by visiting their discovery centre.
All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.
