The Isle of Mull, the second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides, is a cyclist’s paradise, offering stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife, and quiet, single-track roads. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking for a challenge or a family seeking a leisurely tour, Mull has something for everyone.
Cycling Routes
Most of Mull’s roads are single-track, which adds to the island’s charm but requires cyclists to be mindful of traffic. The main A roads, especially those near ferry terminals, can be busy, but many other routes offer a peaceful journey through the island’s spectacular landscape.
- North Mull Cycle Loop: A strenuous 65-mile (105 km) route that starts and ends in Craignure. This loop takes you through Tobermory, past stunning coastal scenery, and offers a chance to spot local wildlife like eagles and otters. More details can be found on the Scotland Cycle Routes website.
- Craignure to Iona: A 37-mile journey that takes you across the Ross of Mull to Fionnphort, where you can catch a short ferry to the Isle of Iona. This route is manageable for most cyclists and provides breathtaking views of the Treshnish Islands and Staffa.
- Glengorm Castle Trails: For those looking for off-road cycling, the Tobermory area, particularly around Glengorm Castle, offers a network of trails. A nice coffee shop at the castle makes it a great meeting point.
When it comes to off-road trails, the Isle of Mull won’t disappoint. Take a break and soak in the wild beauty of its off beaten tracks.
Cycling Events
The Isle of Mull hosts popular cycling events that attract riders from all over.
- The Isle of Mull Sportive: An annual event organized by the Isle of Mull Cycle Club. It typically takes place in early June and offers two courses: a long 87-mile (140 km) route and a shorter 44-mile (70 km) option. Both courses start and finish in Tobermory and are fully supported with marshals and feed stations. You can find more information and event dates on the Isle of Mull Sportive website.
- Cross at the Castle: This event is part of the Scottish National Cyclocross series and is held at Glengorm Castle. It’s a challenging and muddy race, often turning into a social event with riders dressing up.
Bike Hire on the Isle of Mull
The Isle of Mull offers a range of options for hiring a bike to explore its scenic routes. Here is a summary of some of the available services:
Cycle Mull
Located on the Pier Road in Salen, Cycle Mull is a convenient option for those looking to rent a bike. They offer a selection of electric bikes, mountain bikes, and children’s bikes. Their electric bikes are a great choice for tackling Mull’s hilly terrain, with a range of 30-90 miles on a single charge. It is highly recommended to book in advance, and the staff can also provide advice on local routes and roads.
Ross of Mull & Iona Bike Hire
For those staying on the southern part of the island, Ross of Mull & Iona Bike Hire is situated by the Fionnphort Pier. The pick-up point is at The Creel Seafood Bar. They provide mountain bikes, electric bikes (for riders over 14), and children’s bikes. They also offer three-day deals and a delivery service to holiday accommodations for hires of three or more days. All rentals come with a helmet and a lock.
Island Pods Bike Hire
Island Pods offers a variety of bikes for rent, including six mountain bikes and eight hybrid e-bikes. The e-bikes are Cube reaction hybrid bikes with powerful 500 or 625Wh battery packs, providing a range of up to 75 miles on a single charge. These are available in small, medium, and large frame sizes. A helmet is included with every rental.
—A Note on Single-Track Roads
As you explore Mull, you’ll encounter many single-track roads with designated passing places. For the safety and courtesy of all road users including locals, other visitors, and delivery drivers please be mindful of traffic behind you. If you see a vehicle approaching or building up behind you, it is good practice to pull into a passing place on your left to let them pass. (it could be a doctor on call) This simple act helps keep traffic flowing smoothly and makes for a more pleasant experience for everyone on the road.
