Welcome to the breathtaking Isle of Mull where the rugged Scottish landscape meets the serene (and sometimes tempestuous) waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Nestled on the edge of the island is the luxurious Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa, a haven for travellers looking to escape the stresses of everyday life.
The hotel offers guests an unforgettable experience of relaxation and indulgence, thanks to its superb spa facilities and unparalleled oceanside views. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa and discover why it’s the perfect destination for your next getaway.
| Address: | Craignure, Isle of Mull, PA65 6BB |
| Opening Hours: | NA |
| Admission Price: | NA |
| Parking: | Free on-site parking for guests. Electric vehicle charging points. |
| Contact: | Tel: 44 8430 50 20 20 |
| Facilities: | Car park, spa, swimming pool, lounge, restaurant, bar, bistro. |
Overview
The Isle of Mull is one of Scotland’s most accessible islands thanks to regular ferry links from the terminal in Oban which is a mere 10 miles east of Mull’s terminal at Craignure. Sailings from the mainland take just 45 minutes, and thanks to a bus stop at the Craignure ferry terminal, it’s easy to visit Tobermory as a foot passenger. Drivers, meanwhile, have the freedom to explore the rest of this beautiful island at their leisure.
While it’s tempting to head straight into the wilderness of Mull, if you’d rather stay in the area around Craignure a good option is to visit the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa which is just a 15-minute walk heading north out of the Craignure ferry terminal car park.
The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa is truly luxurious and is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. The hotel boasts a wide range of facilities that are sure to impress even the most discerning traveller, and the 75 rooms are among the best you’ll find on Mull, ranging from ‘Classic’ rooms at the bottom end to sumptuous ‘Retreat Suites’ which include a private terrace, hot tub, and stunning views of the coast.
All rooms are well-equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and luxurious bedding, and the higher-tier rooms also include complimentary access to the on-site spa facilities, although even the lowest-tier Classic rooms include free use of the pool.
The hotel also has an on-site restaurant, Oran na Mara, which specialises in local produce, especially seafood. During my stay, I went for the battered fish and chips, which had thick flakes of fish in the most delicious batter I’ve ever tasted, while my other half had a seafood stew with big chunks of fresh bread, and again, it was one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
If you’d like to see what else is on offer at the Oran na Mara restaurant, take a look at the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa menu here.
There’s also a Sea Deck bar and lounge area which is perfect for enjoying a drink or two after a long day of exploring the island, and they also serve light lunches if you’re looking for a mid-day snack (I highly recommended the pizzas).
The local area has a couple of good walks including a lovely stroll through Scallastle Forest which is directly opposite the hotel, and the coastline around Craignure Bay.
The forest has been cut back, so it’s quite open, and there are amazing views ahead to the hills and behind to the sea. It’s a decent track comprised of gravel and rough grass, but there are a couple of steep sections, so I wouldn’t attempt it in the winter without wearing walking boots with good grips (link to my recommended boots).
Walking around Craignure Bay is another option, and you’ll find downtrodden grass tracks around the promontory on the other side of the ferry jetty leading to Duart Point, where you’ll be able to see Duart Castle in all its glory.
The Highlights
1: The food in the restaurant is probably the best you’ll find on Mull. All dishes are inspired by the island so there’s lots of fresh seafood on offer as well as award-winning cheeses from Isle of Mull Cheese. If you want to see how the cheese is made you can join guided tours at the farm (Sgriob-ruadh Farm, Tobermory, Isle of Mull PA75 6QD).
2: The spa is perfect for a luxury break, and as it’s within walking distance of the ferry terminal, it’s also ideal for day-trippers staying on the mainland. Along with the sauna and hot tub, guests are welcome to use the swimming pool and steam rooms. They can then enjoy a drink or two on the outdoor deck, which has breathtaking views of the Sound of Mull.
3: Guests staying overnight will find the Isle of Mull Hotel has rooms that rival any on the mainland. All rooms are a decent size but the premium suites are enormous – especially the ‘Retreat Suites’ which have their own private terrace and hot tub.
Visiting Tips
1: If you fancy a walk to make the most of the area try crossing the A849 at the entrance and walking through Scallastle Forest which has an entrance almost directly opposite the turning to the hotel. You’ll find a rough footpath that heads up a hill which loops back on itself around a burn. The entire trail is around 3 miles and should take between 1.5 to 2 hours to walk.
2: Visitors don’t have to book a room to use the facilities at the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa. You can enjoy treatments in the spa or just have a meal by making a reservation at any time, which is great if you’re on holiday on the island and know there’s a rainy day ahead (this is Scotland, after all!).
3: I recommend making use of the boardwalk that heads to Craignure Bay at the back of the hotel. It isn’t the longest walk in the world, admittedly, but the views are stunning and it’s a great place to stretch your legs after a meal.
Tourist Information
The highlight of the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa is undoubtedly the luxurious Driftwood Spa, which features a full range of treatments designed to help guests relax and unwind, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
I visited with my other half and her sister, so I didn’t use all the facilities myself, but I can confirm the pool is excellent—big enough for a good swim, with big, comfy seats around the edge and a giant wall of glass that offers scenic views of Craignure Bay.
I was given rave reviews from the two ladies who made use of the spa, and by all accounts, the massages and body wraps are absolutely first-class, and there’s even a dual therapy room so that friends and couples can enjoy treatments together.
The spa also offers thermal mud treatments (I gave that a miss) which are supposed to nourish the skin while boosting circulation, and there are outdoor hot tubs (which I did make use of) that allow visitors to soak up the views of the bay while sipping on a glass of bubbly.
There’s also a sauna, a steam room, and a Wilderness Deck, which can be booked privately. The deck includes its own hot tub, sauna, and ug, where you can cosy away in peace and quiet while enjoying the stunning views of Mull’s coastline with nothing but the sound of rolling waves and chirping birds for company.
Although the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa is one of, if not the most luxurious, places on the island, you can end up paying a hefty amount for the experience if you don’t do your research beforehand. As an example for an out-of-season stay, expect to pay around £170 per night for a classic room with breakfast, £75 per person for a Classic Spa Day experience, and £30 per person for a meal in the restaurant, not including drinks.
On the other hand, if you take a look at the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa deals page you’ll often find special offers that work out much cheaper. I managed to book pretty much the same as above, but for two nights and including afternoon tea, all for just £170 per person.
Things to Do
Spa Day: The Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa offers a lavish spa experience, featuring a variety of treatments from massages to facials. It’s the perfect way to unwind, rejuvenate, and pamper yourself in a relaxing setting with professional therapists.
Wildlife Tours: The Isle of Mull is famed for its abundant wildlife. After a treatment, you might like to join a tour of the island to spot rare birds, seals, otters, and even golden eagles. There are several tour operators on Mull but Nature Scotland is one of the best.
Culinary Experience: The hotel’s Oran-Na-Mara Restaurant offers a fine dining experience with stunning sea views. Don’t miss their seafood dishes and traditional Scottish desserts for a true taste of Scotland.
Whisky Tasting: Scotland is known for its whisky, and at the Isle of Mull Hotel you can enjoy a wee dram or two at the Sea Deck Bar which features outstanding ocean views. Ask for a single malt from the Tobermory Distillery for a true taste of Mull.
Island Hopping: The Isle of Mull is surrounded by other beautiful islands. Take a day trip to the nearby Isle of Iona, known for its historic abbey, and Staffa, famous for its unique basalt columns and the stunning Fingal’s Cave.
Things to Do Nearby
Duart Castle. Isle of Mull, PA64 6AP. 10-minute drive.
Duart Castle is the ancestral home of Clan MacLean. This imposing fortification sits on a coastal crag overlooking Duart Bay and the Sound of Mull. The castle is a must-visit for all tourists due to the picturesque walking routes around the coastline of Duart Point as well as the historical artefacts waiting to be discovered in the castle’s restored rooms. Facilities include a restaurant and a gift shop.
Sir William Black Lighthouse. PA64 6AP, Mull. 10-minute drive plus a 5-minute walk.
A lighthouse built into a Gothic tower located on the easternmost point of Mull. The lighthouse was built in the 1900s as a memorial to the Scottish novelist William Black. Walks are possible along the low clifftops in both directions.
Dun da Ghaoithe. Isle of Mull PA65 6BB. 18-minute drive plus a 2-hour walk.
A 766-metre-high curving ridge that looks over the ferry terminal at Craignure. Relatively easy-going although the rough path is unmarked.
Loch Spelve. Inverlussa, Isle of Mull PA65 6BD. 11-minute drive.
A sea loch that is almost landlocked apart from a narrow opening to the Firth of Lorn. Easily accessed via the A849. Loch Spelve is a popular destination for kayakers and a good place to use paddleboards to explore Mull’s Southeast because of its protection from the sea.
Aros Castle. Isle of Mull PA72 6JP. 14-minute drive.
A ruined 13th-century castle that comprises a few walled sections, though it’s mostly in ruin. Good views across the firth to the mainland. There are lots of paths that follow the coastline to the north and south.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa accessible?
Yes, the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa is accessible with level access to all public areas. They also offer accessible guest rooms which have been modified to be disabled-friendly.
Is parking available at the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa?
There is a free car park with around 50 spaces at the front of the hotel which also has electric vehicle charging points. Electric vehicle charging points are part of the ChargePlace Scotland Network and are charged at 85p per kWh plus a £2 connection fee.
What are the check-in and check-out times at the Isle Of Mull Hotel and Spa?
The check-in time is 3 p.m., and the check-out time is 11 am. Early check-in and late check-out are available on request.
How much does it cost to stay at the Isle Of Mull Hotel and Spa?
Prices vary according to the season, but as a guide, off-peak rooms start at around £160 per night for a classic room and up to £500 per night for a Retreat Suite.
