The Island of Mull off the Argyll coast is a wildlife-lovers paradise. On and around this island there's a good chance of spotting otter, seals, red deer, porpoise, whales and numerous species of birdlife including the most significant for the area and the biggest bird of prey in Scotland, the white-tailed Sea Eagle.

This walk offers magnificent views of hills and surrounding islands as well as ample opportunity for spotting wildlife in their own wild environment. Ardmore Bay is an ideal picnic site and the well-kept wooden bothy is perfect for sheltering from any sudden showers.  

To find the Forestry Commission Ardmore Car Park, take the road from Tobermory to Dervaig, turn off to Glengorm and right onto the track at the forest edge.

Set off along the track by the right edge of the forest, part of the mountain bike route. Following the red waymarks descend into the forest, pass through the metal gate and take the right hand path, leaving the cycle track. Continue following the red waymarks, turning right in front of a ruined cottage - the remains of old Ardmore village. Cross the burn and then keep left, to the side of the burn. After descending through a dense forest area, you'll emerge at Ardmore Bay. This outstanding viewpoint is perfect for a picnic, looking out over Ardmore Point headland.

The path continues beside the shore. Continue to follow red waymarks across rough ground, ascending a low cliff, fording a burn and climbing a second low cliff. From here you can see across to the Isles of Coll and Tiree and the Ardnamurchan peninsula.

At the end of the bay, the path turns left uphill to re-enter the forest. Turn right at the broad track, rejoining the cycle route, and follow this through the forest. At a fork where the main track continues to the left, follow it, going through the gate at the edge of the forest. Continue across the open countryside, with a view of the 19th century Glengorm Castle on your right.

Climb a stile and walk ahead until the track emerges on a narrow road beside Glengorm car park. Continue along the road for 2 miles, initially uphill, eventually descending and re-entering the forest. At a red waymarked post where the road bends right, turn left along a track, which takes you back to the start of the walk.

It's well worth hiring the services of a local wildlife guide to make your walk all the more rewarding and there are a number of operators on the island who can help. To find out more, visit the Wild Scotland website.

Ardmore Point, Isle of Mull Walking Route