Wildlife Hotspot

Head south on a stunning coastal walk from the harbour at Tobermory to Aros Park which is signposted from The Mull Aquarium.

Glengorm Castle and Grounds is a short drive  or cycle journey from Tobermory.  The grounds of the castle can be explored by foot and there are several circular for you to enjoy including one to some prehistoric standing stones. The grounds are wildlife rich and there are several ranger led walks during the summer months.  There is also a nature focused interpreation centre in The Old Stables where you can find out more about the local wildlife, rarities and local sightings and plan your own wildlife safari around the grounds.

The Rahoy Hills Wildlife Reserve has been managed by The Scottish Wildlife Trust in association with The Ardtornish Estate since the 1970s. There is a well signed, if slightly boggy, walk around the shores of Loch Arienas to the old deserted settlement of Arienas, with great views over the loch as well as a walk up through the woods and along the banks of The Black water river.

Venture into the wilds of Sunart and head out on the wee yellow road from Strontian, through Scotstown, over the hills, the steep steep hills, and down into Polloch.  The road is steep and bendy, though worth the journey as it takes you into the wild depths of Sunart and Moidart.  There is a lovely Forestry Commission walk from a small car park at Polloch taking you to the shores of Loch Shiel where you can look for eagles, otters and divers as well as stopping for a picnic on a particulary well positioned bench overlooking Loch Shiel (we always do).  You can also cycle along

The Ariundle National Nature Reserve is a lovely place to visit at any time of the year, and there are two lovely walks through the woods and hills.  The Reserve is a fine example of ancient coastal Atlantic oakwood and is recognised for its old oaks supporting a huge diversity and abundance of ferns.

There is a Forestry Commission carpark at the end of the road to Ariundle with interpreation boards and a map of the walk options.

The RSPB reserve at Glenborrodale is located on the hills beside Loch Sunart and consists of Atlantic oak woodland, heath and bog. Over 130 birds have been reported within or in the vicinity of the reserve, including the coast and surrounding waters. These include merlin, redstart, skylark, tree pipit, spotted flycatcher, wheatear, whinchat and wood warbler. Look along the coastline of Loch Sunart for common sandpiper, turnstone, oystercatcher and white-tailed eagle.

There is a nature trail through the reserve and guided walks are available on Wednesday afternoon in season.