4-Day Magical Mull, Iona & West Highlands Small-Group Tour From Edinburgh

Set out on a captivating 4-day journey to the enchanting islands of Mull and Iona, as well as the stunning West Highlands, with this small-group tour from Edinburgh. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty, from the serene Calgary Bay to the majestic Eas Fors Waterfall. With comfortable accommodations and an expert guide, you’ll explore charming Tobermory, visit iconic castles, and savor the tranquility of the Scottish landscapes. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure, leaving you eager to uncover more of the region’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• 4-day small-group tour exploring the scenic Isle of Mull, Iona, and surrounding areas from Edinburgh.
• Highlights include Calgary Bay, Eas Fors Waterfall, and the optional visit to Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa.
• Includes 3 nights of accommodation, transportation, ferry transfers, and a driver/guide throughout the journey.
• Travelers can visit Tobermory Distillery and Inveraray and Stirling castles during the tour.
• Tour has a 100% traveler recommendation based on 33 reviews with a maximum group size of 16 people.

Tour Overview

This 4-day journey takes travelers on an exploration of the Isle of Mull, Iona, and the surrounding areas.

Scenic highlights include the stunning Calgary Bay, the cascading Eas Fors Waterfall, and the historic Iona Abbey. Guests can opt to visit the renowned Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa.

The tour also includes a relaxing day in the charming town of Tobermory and visits to prominent castles like Inveraray and Stirling.

With a 100% traveler recommendation based on 33 reviews, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience in the Scottish Highlands.

Inclusions

The tour includes 3 nights of accommodation in a B&B or 3-star hotel, with breakfast provided.

Transport is via a 16-seat mini-coach, and ferry transfers to Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona are included.

A driver/guide accompanies the group throughout the journey.

Admission fees for optional activities, like the Staffa boat trip, are also covered, subject to weather conditions.

The tour starts and ends at the Edinburgh Bus Station, with check-in closing 15 minutes before the 8:45 am departure.

Travelers are advised of the 14kg (31lbs) luggage limit per person.

Meeting and Departure Details

The meeting point for the tour is the Edinburgh Bus Station, located at Gate J and Gate K in St Andrew Square, EH1 3DQ.

Check-in closes 15 minutes before the 8:45 am departure. The tour will end back at the meeting point.

Travelers should arrive on time, as the mini-coach won’t wait for late arrivals. The maximum group size is 16 people, and each person is limited to 14kg (31lbs) of luggage.

Participants should be mindful of this limit to ensure a smooth departure and arrival.

Accommodation Information

Depending on their booking, travelers can choose between a 3-star B&B or hotel for their 3-night stay. B&Bs are located on the outskirts, requiring a 20-30 minute walk to local facilities. Hotels are centrally located but may also require a similar walk. Travelers should notify the tour operator if they need assistance with stairs, as lifts may not be available.

Accommodation	Location	Accessibility	Proximity
3-star B&B	Outskirts	May require stairs	20-30 min walk
3-star Hotel	Central	May require stairs	20-30 min walk

The tour’s accommodation options provide a comfortable base for exploring the stunning landscapes of Mull, Iona, and the West Highlands.

Optional Activities and Important Notes

What optional activities are available, and what important notes should travelers be aware of?

On this tour, travelers can opt to take a boat trip to the Isle of Staffa, departing at 1:45 pm and returning at 5 pm. However, due to weather conditions, these boat trips will be unavailable for the remainder of 2024.

Plus, visitors should book tickets in advance for Iona Abbey, as there’s free time on the island between 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm.

Finally, those interested in visiting the Tobermory Distillery must reserve their tickets prior to the tour.

The maximum group size is 16 travelers, and the luggage limit is 14kg (31lbs) per person.

Highlights of the Tour

Scenic highlights throughout the 4-day journey abound, offering travelers a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Mull and surrounding islands.

Highlights include:

• Exploring the stunning Calgary Bay, with its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

• Admiring the cascading Eas Fors Waterfall, a picturesque natural wonder.

• Visiting the historic Iona Abbey, a renowned spiritual center and a testament to Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.

An optional trip to the otherworldly Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of Staffa adds an extra layer of enchantment to this captivating tour.

Exploring the Isle of Mull

Travelers embark on a journey of discovery as they explore the captivating Isle of Mull, a true gem of the Inner Hebrides.

This scenic island boasts rugged coastlines, tranquil lochs, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can wander through the charming harbor town of Tobermory, known for its colorful buildings and vibrant fishing community.

They’ll also have the opportunity to visit historic sites like Duart Castle, a stunning 13th-century fortress perched atop a rocky outcrop.

Whether hiking to serene waterfalls or taking in the breathtaking views, the Isle of Mull offers a truly immersive island experience.

Discovering the Isle of Iona

From the captivating Isle of Mull, visitors now make their way to the serene and historic Isle of Iona. This tiny island is home to an ancient abbey, renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning architecture.

Visitors can:

• Explore the tranquil Iona Abbey, a center of early Christianity and the final resting place of numerous Scottish kings.

• Hike along the island’s golden beaches, taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery and wildlife.

• Visit the medieval Iona Nunnery, a haunting reminder of the island’s rich religious heritage.

With its profound sense of peace and connection to the past, Iona offers a truly enriching experience for all who venture there.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy is not explicitly stated in the provided information. Travelers should contact the tour operator directly to inquire about their specific cancellation and refund policies before booking.

Can I Purchase Additional Optional Activities on the Day?

Yes, travelers can purchase optional activities on the day, such as the Staffa boat trip, subject to availability. However, some activities like the Tobermory Distillery ticket require advance reservations.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements That Can Be Accommodated?

The tour can accommodate most dietary requirements with advance notice. Travelers should inform the provider of any dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, when booking to ensure their needs are met during the tour.

How Much Free Time Is There During the Tour?

There’s free time of about 4 hours on Iona, allowing travelers to explore the island and its attractions, like the historic Iona Abbey, at their own pace. Plus, there’s a relaxing day in Tobermory for independent exploration.

What Is the Best Way to Bring Spending Money for the Trip?

The best way to bring spending money is to use a combination of cash, debit, and credit cards. Travelers should notify their banks about international travel and ensure they have adequate funds for optional activities, meals, and souvenirs.

The Sum Up

This 4-day small-group tour from Edinburgh offers a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Scottish Isles and West Highlands. With comfortable accommodation, an expert guide, and a focus on scenic highlights, it promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore charming towns, historic sites, and tranquil landscapes, creating cherished memories of this magical region.