Wild Camping Isle of Mull
Scotland is a top wilderness hotspot in the UK, if not the world. From the weathered Munros of the Highlands which funnel through the glens, to the sprawling bogs and moorlands which are permeated by lochs and waterways of almost unimaginable beauty. To round off this smorgasbord of natural landscapes, there are the islands and bays of the Scottish coast.
The Isles of Arran, Mull, and Skye are true highlights of the 790 offshore islands which also includes the distant settlements of Shetland, Orkney and the Outer Hebrides. The Isle of Mull is a gem that’s bursting with wildlife and far-removed nature spots perfect for outdoor adventures. To experience this area in depth, try a wild camping Isle of Mull trip and get ready to be blown away by what’s on offer.
Where is the Isle of Mull
The Isle of Mull is the second largest island of the Inner Hebrides – a chain of 35 islands off the west coast of Scotland. It is an island at the whim of the powerful Atlantic weather systems. The rocks are raw and battered by the elements which make for some epic coastal walks. Collectively, this creates extraordinary landscapes with many fantastic spots to try wild camping Isle of Mull style.
How to Reach the Isle of Mull
Tobermory is the capital of Mull and the place where most of its residents live. However, the most common way to reach Mull is by taking a Calmac ferry from the Scottish mainland. The Oban to Craignure route is a nifty 45-minute trip which allows for vehicles to be driven onto the island. You can also catch a ferry from Kilchoan to the capital of Tobermory or from Lochaline to Balmeanach. Glasgow is the closest city to Mull with an international airport and long-distance bus/rail access. Try taking your campervan on a road trip around Mull to explore a coastline that could easily give the Scotland 500 a run for its money!
Top Activities on the Isle of Mull
Mull is an island of adventures. Aside from visiting the chocolate box fishing town of Tobermory where a trip to the whisky distillery wouldn’t go amiss, and strolling around the historic Duart Castle, most activities on the Isle of Mull are nature-based. The best way to explore these locations is by hiking and wild camping Isle of Mull, preferably as an outdoor summer escape. Ross of Mull is a remote peninsula great for discovering wildlife such as white-tailed sea eagles, seals, basking sharks, whales, otters, puffins, dolphins, and porpoises. Fidden Beach is a must-see and driving along the west coast to Calgary Beach is another highlight.
How to Go Wild Camping Isle of Mull
Thanks to the Land Reform Act of 2003 and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, wild camping is legal in Scotland. Due to antiquated legislation throughout Great Britain, this luxury does not extend to England and Wales where you might get in trouble if caught wild camping. Fortunately, wild camping on Mull is a brilliant way to experience this island by getting to grips with the harsh weather and distant landscapes.
It’s possible to travel from place to place on Mull by catching a West Coast Motors bus. However, having your own vehicle or campervan allows you to work off an independent schedule. It also makes it easy to access any off the beaten trail wild camping locations.
In general, it’s best to avoid built-up areas when you are wild camping. Try to camp away from the busiest tourist spots and find an isolated area that is all to yourself. That way, you don’t disturb others and they won’t disturb you!
Top Wild Camping Locations
If you’re a keen hiker, head to Ben More, the only Munro on Mull. This 966-metre peak offers gorgeous views across the island and along the coast. You can either pitch at altitude for the panoramas (beware of bad weather and exposure) or down at the foot of the mountain overlooking Loch na Keal.
If you’re looking for somewhere close to Tobermory, take the Lighthouse Path north to the Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse. If you explore this area, you should find a good spot for wild camping Isle of Mull. South of Calgary (another good place for beach camping), you’ll find the Treshnish Coast. You can hike around the peninsula and up to the sea cliffs where you’ll find abandoned villages and an old whisky cave. Pitching in this area could be a fantastic experience and quiet the adventure!
Loch Frisa is the biggest lake on Mull. It is also the perfect place for wild campers to spend the night. It is damp and boggy down by the water’s edge, but you should be able to find some good pitching spots set back on the moor if you review your surroundings.
If you want to boondock in your campervan as an alternative to wild camping Isle of Mull, try following the 123-mile road around the island. There are some free car parks where you can sleep in a pinch, but it’s recommended to stay in a designated campsite and utilise the facilities when you are in a motorhome.
Final Tips for Wild Camping Isle of Mull
Before you set off wild camping, get prepared. Don’t forget to bring your insect repellent and midge nets. These flies can ruin your trip if you haven’t packed the appropriate defences! Once you are on Mull, you’ll find island prices (expensive) and fewer choices for camping supplies and food. Make sure you stock up on the mainland before heading to Mull to give yourself greater choice and more competitive prices.
As always, be sure to respect the environment and the people who live in the area. When wild camping Isle of Mull, follow basic camping rules by leaving no trace. Be considerate of other people using the land, avoid lighting fires, minimise noise disturbance, and generally leave the area as you found it. That way, people can enjoy wild camping on Mull for years to come!
