Two islands seperated by a narrow strip of water, each with their own captivating charms. Experience the contrast with our two centre break.

Day One - by sea to Mull

You start your journey by ferry from the port of Oban to Mull, with glorious views in all directions as you cross to Craignure. Your hotel is in the main island village, around 30 minutes' drive.

Your Mull Hotel

Basking in the picture-postcard charm of Tobermory's stunning waterfront, your hotel has been cleverly converted from a row of fisherman's cottages into a delightful family-run establishment. Comfortable lounges and bedrooms offer a warm welcome just a stone's throw from one of the world's prettiest working harbours. The inviting - and locally popular - restaurant enjoys views across to Calve Island and offers plenty to tempt your palate- advanced booking is advised.

The Isle of Mull

A sheer paradise for lovers of Scotland’s natural heritage, Mull is an island gem, with an enviable diversity of wildlife thriving everywhere from dense woodland glens to the grassy slopes of Ben More. Its many miles of coastline boast fantastic sandy beaches – particularly at Calgary and Ardalanish – whilst off-shore is one of Europe’s prime habitats for whales and dolphins. You can also take a boat to visit the famous - and inspirational for Mendelsson - Fingal's cave on Staffa. Meanwhile, lively Tobermory has a bustling vitality and is a great place for a weekend break. Brightly painted houses provide a colourful backdrop to the picture-postcard harbour and the ‘craic’ in waterfront bars rivals anything on the mainland.

We are happy to arrange for a whole range of wildilife and boat trips, inclding trips to Staffa, puffin and whale-watching (in season). Ask for more details.

Day Four - the island of Iona

A scenic drive from one side of Mull to the other will take you to the tiny ferry port of Fionnphort, in the south west where you will leave your car behind and catch the next ferry to this very special island.

Your Iona Hotel

Iona ‘s popularity as a daytrip destination is in stark contrast to the numbers of people who stay there overnight, and this is an ideal way to experience the peace and even mysticism of an island which has played a notable role on Scottish society for hundreds of years. The hotel was built in 1868 as the village inn and has two comfortable lounges with open fires, a plant filled sun lounge and a spacious dining room with antiques and family portraits which all overlook the Sound of Iona to the pink and blue hills of Mull. There are only fifteen cosy bedrooms with en suite facilities, as well as period furniture and original paintings. The hotel lies within walking distance of the Abbey and only 200 yards from the jetty. They serve freshly prepared real home cooking using many of their own organically grown vegetables. Dishes include local produce such as wild Mull salmon, venison, Scottish lamb, Tobermory smoked trout and cheeses.

The Island

A world away from Mull, but in reality just a short ferry ride across the Sound of Iona, this tiny island is a deeply spiritual place – a historic Christian pilgrimage which has drawn travellers to its enigmatic shores for more than a thousand years. The brilliant blue-green waters and clear light here have inspired poets, painters and pilgrims for centuries. Iona’s historical and spiritual significance dates back to the time of St. Columba, who founded a monastery here and helped to spread Christianity throughout Scotland. The present Iona Abbey dates from the eleventh century and is a true sanctuary, where services and special events are held every day throughout the summer months. The island is also noted for its wonderful sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, offering picturesque views over to Mull. As you explore this enchanting wilderness, whether on foot or bicycle, keep an eye out for some stunning wild flowers and rare birds, including corncrakes, sparrowhawks and buzzards.

Day Six

Return home, by ferry from Iona to Mull, then by car ferry from Mull back to Oban.

From £369-£429 per person , based on 2 people sharing double rooms ensuite, for 5 nights between April and October 2008, on a bed & breakfast basis in Tobermory and including dinner, bed & breakfast on Iona.
Price includes return ferry travel for a car and passengers to Mull. The ferry to Iona is for foot passengers only and costs £3.95 return.

We would also be happy to arrange a whole range of wildilife and boat trips for your holiday, including trips to Staffa, puffin and whale-watching (in season). Ask for more details.

All our touring holidays include a map of Scotland with recommended routes from your specified starting point, suggestions on places to see and visit depending on your personal interests and our expertise to help you get the most from your holiday.

All itineraries and room types are presented subject to availability at specific hotels.

The McKinlay Kidd Guarantee

All our holiday prices include a service charge of £7 per person per night towards the costs we incur in researching, planning and designing your holiday.

We guarantee to refund this service charge if you believe that arranging your holiday through McKinlay Kidd has not met your expectations for value. All we ask is that you write to us within 7 days of your return and explain your reason for claiming the refund. This will ensure that we can improve the experience for all our future guests.