I thought I would try and choose my top 5 walks on Mull. It is hard because there are so many wonderful places to explore, even just in the north west of Mull – let alone over the rest of the island. None of the walks I have chosen are particularly long – the longest is probably no 1 which takes between 3 and 5 hours depending on how fast you walk and how long you linger. All of them make a good destination for a day out, and you can almost walk as much or as little as you want.
Each cottage has a guide to island walks on its bookshelves, and we have maps you can borrow too.
1. Treshnish Headland walk
I suppose it is obvious that the walk around the Treshnish headland would be my top choice! It is where we live after all. But I am not choosing it because of that but because it is a really beautiful walk. It is full of varied scenery, incredible views, with possibilities to spot otters and sea eagles, and what I really value in a walk, a sense of wildness. There is history in the rugged landscape. Look for the fort, the Dun, the chapel, the Whisky Cave and the carving beside a door way of one of the dwellings at Crackaig.
2. Traigh na Cille
Another name for the Traigh na Cille walk is Kilninian or known locally as the Black Beach. We have maps in the cottages and in the Phone Room for you to borrow. If you fancy a longer walk you could walk from here, its about 5 miles each way – otherwise drive to the bridge past Kilninian Schoolhouse and walk down from the little quarry. Traigh na Cille has a wonderful view across to the Isle of Ulva. There is a shelf of rock which at low times reveals a maze of rock pools great for rock pooling – and lovely walks in both directions along the shore.
3. Kilvickeon and Scoor
We have made a day trip in early April from here to walk and explore these beautiful beaches. About a two hour journey through stunning scenery from here – but in my opinion, well worth it. The path to Kilvickeon from the Scoor track passes near to the ruined church. It was gloriously sunny and the local cows were grazing on the kelp that had washed up on the sands.
4. Port na Ban
This pretty beach is near Croig. Only a few miles from here. You can park carefully, not to obscure access to the house there, beside the wall and walk along the track to the end. There are two lovely beaches and one has a secret for you to discover. Wonderful views to Rum, Eigg and Muck in the distance. A perfect family walk and wonderful place to spend the day.
5. Inivea
Close to home, Inivea is a deserted township above the beautiful white sands and turquoise waters of Calgary Bay. Walk along the track from the beach to the pier and then climb up the track to find the ruins of the settlement. There are wonderful views from there across the bay to the distinctive Treshnish Headland.
So these are my top 5 walks on Mull this week. There are many more possibles, so I might have to rewrite the blog next week with another top 5.
