The Magic Of Mull

A 7-day exploration of Mull, in the Inner Hebrides, a natural history paradise boasting an abundance of birds, mammals and marine-life. Otters, eagles, whales and dolphins are among the likely highlights! Mull is the third largest of the Hebridean islands and one of the most beautiful, with a varied landscape which includes extensive forests, craggy hills and a glorious coastline ... all habitats that will be explored in detail during our exciting midsummer tour. Here, the population of White-tailed Sea Eagles is as dense as anywhere else in Scotland, although there are even more pairs of the majestic Golden Eagle to provide unique aerial comparisons. Many other birds of prey inhabit the island, including good numbers of breeding Hen Harriers and Short-eared Owls. Red-throated Divers can be seen on both freshwater and sea lochs, where Great Northern Divers also regularly linger into the summer in their splendid breeding plumage. The same sea lochs are the home of Otters, and indeed Mull must be one of the best places in Britain to observe these captivating creatures. The island is also well known for its Red Deer, which are numerous throughout, but there are also a few small herds of Fallow Deer, remnants from introductions made in the past.

At many places around the scenic coastline, both Grey and Common Seals can be seen from the shore and we are also likely to encounter them during a boat trip when we will search for Minke Whales and other cetaceans, as well as Basking Sharks. A highlight of the tour will be landing on the offshore island of Lunga, where we will experience the noise and smell of a teeming seabird ‘city’ and observe masses of Kittiwakes, Shags, Guillemots, Razorbills and posing Puffins at just a few metres’ range! Black Guillemots are here too, with both Great and Arctic Skuas likely to be seen patrolling around the colonies. Mull is certainly a magical island and with long summer days in prospect we have ample time to savour its many attractions from our delightful base at the Isle of Mull Hotel, Craignure Bay.