October 6 - 12 Sat - Fri
Group Size: 9
Starting Point: Inverness
Based: Mull 3 nights, Tiree 3 nights
Walking: Easy
Description: Although separated by just fifteen miles of water the Inner Hebridean islands of Mull and Tiree could not be more different. Tiree is small (ten miles long) and flat, for the most part just a hairline on the horizon and boasts more hours of sunshine than anywhere in Scotland. Its long white-sand beaches are a magnet for migrant waders, shallow fresh-water lochs attract large numbers of wildfowl, and hinterland pastures and marshes are hunting zones for Peregrines and Merlins.
Subject to weather patterns early October regularly sees large influxes of southbound migrant birds arriving on the island, including notable rarities from across the Atlantic, while post-breeding divers, auks and other seabirds appear in shallow sea bays. Good views of Sooty Shearwaters and a Nightingale were among highlights of our 2011 visit to Tiree
Mull is the third largest Hebridean Island, characterised by terraced hills and mountains of volcanic origin. Large expanses of forest and woodland, barren deer range, fertile pastures, craggy shorelines and deeply indented bays are among its varied habitats. The island is renowned for being the principal stronghold of White-tailed Eagles in Scotland, and hosts strong populations of Golden Eagles, Hen Harriers and other raptors. Blue Hares, Otters, seals and deer are all part of the Mull package.
A visit to the Island of Iona offers opportunity to experience the abbey, famous for its association with St Columba. The surrounding sea is a regular haunt of Basking Sharks – nine seen in the same field-of-view during our 2011 tour.
Itinerary
Day 1 - 3 Saturday – Monday: Morning rendezvous in Inverness followed by journey to Mull via Fishnish-Lochaline ferry (15 minute crossing). Explore Mull including visit to Iona.
Days 4 - 6 Tuesday - Thursday: Transfer to Tiree (3 hours, 40 mins. crossing). Explore Tiree.
Day 7 Friday: Morning ferry to Oban, followed by return to Inverness where the tour terminates late afternoon/early evening - transfers provided to accommodation/transport terminals.
Cost: £940...Includes: Accommodation; all meals plus packed lunches; all travel.
Deposit: £100
Single Room Supplement: £120
