Grand Island Hotel: Journey to the Hebrides
The first stage of your travel to the Grand Island Hotel involves reaching the Isle of Mull from the Scottish mainland. Most travelers depart from the port of Oban taking the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry to Craignure. This crossing takes approximately fifty minutes and offers striking views of Duart Castle as you approach the island. While there are smaller ferry routes from Lochaline to Fishnish or Kilchoan to Tobermory, the Oban route is the most direct for those coming from central Scotland or via train. It is vital to book vehicle space weeks in advance during the summer months as these sailings frequently sell out.
Navigating to the Ulva Ferry Landing
Once you have arrived on Mull, you must traverse the island to reach the west coast at the specific location known as Ulva Ferry. If you are driving from the Craignure terminal, the trip takes about forty five minutes along scenic single track roads that skirt the edge of Loch na Keal. Drivers should remain alert for local wildlife and utilize passing places to allow faster traffic to overtake. For those without a car, the Ulva Ferry Community Bus operates a pre-booked service. This service ties in with West Coast Motors’ service WCM 95 from Salen to Craignure, connecting with the Oban-Craignure ferry. Additionally, this service allows onward travel via West Coast Motors’ WCM 494 service between Calgary and Tobermory. Arrangements must be made at least one day prior to your arrival. You can find more local transport tips here.
The Short Crossing to the Grand Island Hotel
At the water’s edge at Ulva Ferry, you will find a small stone pier overlooking the narrow sound. To signal the ferryman, you simply slide a red wooden panel on the pier side signal board to notify the boat on the opposite shore that a passenger is waiting. A small open boat will then cross the sound to collect you for the two minute journey to the Isle of Ulva. This ferry generally operates between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays with additional Sunday service during the height of summer. It is important to remember that the ferry typically does not run on Saturdays so your arrival and departure dates should be planned accordingly.
The Final Walk to Ulva House
Upon disembarking at the Ulva Boathouse, you enter a landscape entirely free of public car traffic. The Grand Island Hotel at Ulva House sits in a secluded position just over half a mile from the pier. The walk takes roughly fifteen minutes along a well-established track that leads through ancient woodland and past historical island landmarks. Because the island is pedestrian-only, visitors should be prepared to walk this final leg.
Please note: The Grand Island Hotel at Ulva House is not yet open to the public. Please visit ulvahouse.com for official updates and to express interest in future bookings.
Read the real story of Banjo & Ro’s Grand Island Hotel Here.
