Chapter 1:Mull: 'Muileach'

  I first experienced the magnificence of Mull in 2010 and like a moth to the flame,I have been drawn back relentlessly,now having spent five holidays on the island.Mull is similar to a fragmented jigsaw,with numerous little islands scattered around its coastline and long fingers of land extending out into the Atlantic ocean.The natural treasures to be found here never cease to surprise and please me.Every inch of this island is rich with natural beauty.From the quaint and colourful vibes of Tobermory nestled in the North to the exposed and celestial Iona which lies beyond Mull's Western finger,the island demands to be explored.

My personal highlights include...

Fidden Bay; which lies close to Fionnphort and boasts beautiful,clear water for kayaking and plenty of curious seals.

The Carsaig Arches; A more recent discovery,the trek to these magnificent natural structures is gruelling especially on a hot day but completely worth the effort.Who knows how much longer they will resist erosion and I feel privileged to have been able to set eyes upon them whilst they did stand.

Ulva & Gometra; These islands situated off Western Mull,are sparsely inhabited and are a joy to explore and I long to return to them.

Isle of Iona: its beaches especially Traigh Ban ( ‘white strand of the monks') offer utter peace and respite for the soul.The whole island exudes a soothing calmness and its close-knit community life presents a very charming and intimate picture.The little cottages and boats bobbing in the shallows exemplify the simplicity of island life.

Staffa & the Treshnish Isles: A trip to these little gems lying to the far West of Mull are essential.Staffa,in all its imposing grandeur with its regimented structure of basalt columns is quite a sight to behold. Lunga is puffin-central and is the perfect spot to photograph these beautiful birds up close.