#travelfeels: Mull, Iona and a Magical Moment of Calm

NicoleG
Posted on 25 Jan 2017

To me, there's nothing more glorious than the blissful feeling of calm as you sail from urban civilisation to the Isle of Mull and its wee neighbour, Iona

The beauty of this place hits you instantly. And before you know it, you’re excited at the thought of being far away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. You’re where there's a population of less than 3000 people, where life goes at a slower pace, and where it’s so tranquil that it almost feels rude to have your phone on loud setting.

After a short drive on my Rabbie's tour from the ferry terminal towards Tobermory, the island’s main town, you’re greeted with the cheerful, bright colours of the harbour-front buildings along the main street.

Once you’re here, it doesn’t take long to realise that Mull is a wildlife enthusiast’s paradise. I’m not an overly eager animal lover but it’s hard not to get involved when you’re surrounded by crystal clear waters, beautiful beaches and bays. You can find seabird colonies, dolphins, whales, basking sharks, otters, and of course, the majestic Golden White-tailed Eagle.

In the heart of Mull lies Beinn Mhòr, the ‘great mountain’. Mull’s very own munro evokes a sense of power and splendour that makes you feel like you belong here. As well as its beautiful scenery and wildlife, Mull boasts a huge sense of cultural and historical significance. When exploring this magnificent island, you feel that many people of great importance have walked the very same path as you, it’s quite the feeling.

No trip to Mull is complete without a visit to its picturesque neighbour, Iona. Every time I set foot on this tiny island I feel like I’ve stepped back in time. Perhaps one of the reasons I feel this is because of its microscopic size; it’s just 3 miles in length from north to south! Yet it certainly manages to pack a punch in beauty, historical significance and charm. Its striking abbey and white sandy beaches, leave you breathless and wondering why you’ve never been here before. If you’re lucky to get a warm, sunny day, you’re instantly transported to a Scottish version of the Caribbean – what’s not to love?

And when you’re in the area, the Rabbie's tour gives you a chance to hop on the small boat to the uninhabited island of Staffa. Its distinctive six-sided columns of rock are gorgeous, and Fingals Cave is an unforgettable hidden away beauty spot. You can you can also watch the cheeky little puffins do their thing.

You can visit these magically calm islands on the Rabbie’s Magical Mull, Isle of Iona & West Highlands 4 Day Tour, and many more of their multi-day tours.