How To Get To The Isle of Mull
The Scottish islands are known for their captivating landscapes, beautiful villages and exciting wildlife. The Isle of Mull is the second largest of the Inner Hebrides, making it a great destination for a Scottish island adventure. There are many ways to get to the Isle of Mull, and this travel guide will help you plan your route to the island.
Getting to the Isle of Mull By Ferry
The ferry is the most common mode of transport for getting to the Isle of Mull. The main point of access to the Isle of Mull is from Oban, which brings you into Craignure. This route provides a picturesque view of the surrounding islands and takes around 50 minutes. The ferry is operated by CalMac (Caledonian MacBrayne) and the Oban to Isle of Mull ferry sailing times change between the summer and winter timetable, sometimes changing for maintenance, so it’s important to check their website for live timings.
If you are coming from the north, the ferry from Lochaline to Fishnish is another available option, only taking around 15 minutes but still provides incredible views to take in.
Additionally, you can take the ferry that goes from Kilchoan to Tobermory on the north coast of Mull. This route is around 35 minutes and it won’t disappoint with its beautiful Scottish scenery along the way.
If you’re looking to stay overnight near Craignure, a luxurious stay at our Isle of Mull Hotel Spa is the perfect way for a peaceful night's sleep.
How to get to Isle of Mull by car
If you choose to go by car to the Isle of Mull, from Glasgow it takes 2 hours 30 minutes to get to Oban Port. From Edinburgh, it takes 3 hours, 4 hours from Aberdeen, and 2 hours 45 minutes from Inverness.
If you are travelling in an electric vehicle, there are EV charging points at our own Oban Bay Hotel, as well as Argyll College in Oban and various points along the way. When choosing to take your vehicle over to Mull, there are electric charging points available at Fionnphort, Craignure, Tobermory, Bunessan and Treshnish Holiday Cottages.
If you are looking to find somewhere to stay whilst on Isle of Mull with an electric charging point, the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa is equipped with charging points.
How to get to Isle of Mull by Train
When choosing to go by train, there are direct trains to Oban from Glasgow Queen Street Station, with journey times of just over 3 hours. The journey can be enjoyed by taking in the picturesque views that Scotland has to offer. If you are coming from the east coast or the south, you’ll need to pass through Glasgow.
Photographer - Eightalbumdeal
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Scotrail_Class_156_crossing_Loch_Awe_April_2017.jpg
How to get to Isle of Mull by bus
Another way to reach the Isle of Mull is by bus. There are buses from Glasgow Buchanan Street Station to Oban that take around 3 hours, depending on traffic. The bus provides a scenic route, offering beautiful views of the Scottish countryside. If you are getting the bus from Inverness, the journey takes around 4 hours 30 minutes, with one change at Fort William.
Whilst on the Isle of Mull, there is a local bus service available. There are buses from Craignure Ferry Port to Tobermory operated by West Coast Motors, which takes around 50 minutes. Fishnish to Tobermory takes 35 minutes and Craignure to Fishnish takes 21 minutes.
Why not treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa after your travels. The Oran na Mara has a brilliant menu of amazing dishes, made from local produce. Or why not try an indulgent afternoon tea in the Sea Deck Bar.
Exploring Mull by foot and bike
The Isle of Mull is full of walking trails and paths - coastal and forest - that enable you to explore the island and its scenery. It is important to wear the appropriate footwear and have a map to hand to navigate through the trails.
Mull is also full of numerous cycling routes available for all different levels. The roads are mainly single track with varying terrain. You can bring your own bike to the island or there are bikes available to rent from Cycle Mull in Salen. Alternatively, Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa has e-bikes available to rent for £25 per person for four hours.
What better way to end a day of exploring than relaxing in a spa. The Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa has a luxurious spa with a refreshing swimming pool and spa treatments that will cleanse and energise your body.
Onwards journey
Explore the islands surrounding the Isle of Mull to enhance your Scottish adventure. From Iona, Ulva or the scenic peninsula of Ardnamurchan, each island is filled with breathtaking landscapes, beautiful wildlife and fun local attractions. Whether you decide to go for a day trip or an island hopping experience, the islands have a lot to offer and many untapped treasures to be explored.
Explore more of the Isle of Mull
Read more about the things you can get up to whilst on the Isle of Mull:
- Explore more about getting to Isle of Mull
- Discover things to do on Mull
- Read about the beautiful beaches of Isle of Mull
- View the breathtaking waterfalls around Isle of Mull
- Find out how to get from Oban to Iona
- Go whale watching around Isle of Mull
- Embrace the views from the water with sea kayaking around Mull
FAQ’s
How do I get to the Isle of Mull?
The most direct route to get to the Isle of Mull is by taking the ferry from Oban to Craignure, taking around 50 minutes.
Can I take my car to the Isle of Mull?
Yes, you can take your car over to the Isle of Mull on the ferry or rent one on the Island. There are electric charging points available across the island.
How do I get from Oban to Mull without a car?
CalMac ferries operate from Oban Ferry Terminal, taking foot passengers into the Craignure Port on the Isle of Mull, where there is a bus stop.
What is the shortest crossing to Mull?
The shortest crossing to Mull is by the ferry from Lochaline to Fishnish, it takes around 15 minutes.
How long is the ferry from Oban to Mull?
The ferry from Oban to Mull takes around 50 minutes.
Do you need a car on the Isle of Mull?
No, you don’t need to have a car whilst on the Isle of Mull. However, it is recommended to bring one or hire one on the island if you wish to explore the whole island. Bikes are also available to hire, and buses operate throughout the island.
How many days do you need on the Isle of Mull?
Depending on your interests and planned activities, we recommend 3-4 days to really get a feel for the island, and 5-7 days if you wish to leisurely explore the island and dive more into the best sights, attractions and activities.
