The superb coastal scenery and natural environment of the Ross of Mull invite anyone to explore the many beaches and rocky coves on foot, or by getting out on the water on a canoe or kayak. Wild swimming, bouldering, wildlife watching, geology, and botany are other common outdoor interests among our guests. Achaban House caters for the outdoor enthusiast with the provision of additional facilities, including a drying room, laundry, cycle storage, and lots of outdoor space for equipment and vehicles.
A list of outdoor and wildlife tour guides on Mull and Iona is available on www.wildisles.co.uk
Walking
The variety of walking opportunities on the Ross of Mull and Iona is extensive. The white-sand beaches, peppered by outcrops of pink and red granite, provide a wide choice of beautiful coastal walks. From the door of Achaban House there are several walks of 3km – 10km, while for a more adventurous day out there are stunning longer walks of 16km – 20 km. For detailed information view our page on walking on the Ross of Mull
Further afield there are many other unique walking destinations within easy striking distance by car such as Burg, Carsaig Arches and Mull’s Munro, Ben More. The Walk Highlands website is an excellent source of detailed information on the walking opportunities on the Ross of Mull and Iona
Kayaking
Getting out on the water is the perfect way to explore the fascinating coastline of the Ross of Mull. In good weather, it is possible to paddle out to Iona and even journey right around the island. Fingal’s Cave and the Treshnish Isles are also within reach given perfect conditions. Fionnphort, Fidden, Kintra, Bunessan and Uisken offer excellent access points to wonderful stretches of the coast and provide options for varying weather and sea conditions. Kayaks can be stored in an area in the grounds of Achaban House. A new watersports facility at nearby Benform offers kayak guiding tours and kayak hire. Visit Bendoran Watersports - sailing is also on offer.
Wild Swimming & Snorkelling
The pink granite coves and silver-sand beaches at nearby Torr Mor and Fidden and along the south coast at locations such as Ardalanish and Uiskin have clear, translucent waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The water is not warm, yet many locals and visitors swim in the sea regularly without a wetsuit! Read our news page on wild swimming with Calum Maclean.
Natural history and wildlife
Mull is home to rare wildlife and the island is famed for its golden eagle population and the successful reintroduction of white-tailed eagles. Mull is a haven for many other bird species, around 260 in total and a particular stronghold for hen harriers. Otters can be spotted along the extensive coastline while porpoises and dolphins, basking sharks and minke whales are often seen on the boat trips which depart from Fionnphort Pier. Mull is very rich in plant species, in particular orchids, lichen, liverworts and mosses. There are even around 250 different types of seaweed!
Bouldering and Rock Climbing
The crags along the coast are very popular for bouldering and rock climbing and most are to be found at the western end of the Ross of Mull. The fascinating geology of Mull provides a huge variety of rock types which require a range of climbing skills and which is very attractive to rock climbers.