Tomsleibhe Bothy is one of the most remote and atmospheric shelters on the Isle of Mull. Located deep within Glen Forsa beneath the steep eastern face of Beinn Talaidh. For those seeking solitude, immersion in the landscape, and a break from modern infrastructure, this bothy offers a rare and authentic experience. It is not a serviced accommodation or curated attraction. It is a traditional Highland shelter, maintained by volunteers and open to those who understand and respect the ethos of off-grid travel.
Location and Access
The bothy sits in Mull’s mountainous interior, approximately six kilometres inland along the Glen Forsa track. The entrance to the track lies off the A849 between Salen and Craignure, near the bridge over the River Forsa. Visitors must park responsibly at the roadside, around 100 metres up the track, as driving further into the glen is prohibited by the Glen Forsa Estate.
The walk-in follows a forestry track through Glen Forsa, a wide glen flanked by steep ridges and open moorland. Although the route is straightforward in dry conditions, it includes a shallow burn that may become difficult in heavy rain. The bothy is marked on OS Explorer Map 375 at grid reference NM 618 372. Because Mobile signal is limited and weather can change quickly, proper mapping and preparation are essential.
Adventure awaits on the Isle of Mull, where the iconic Duart Castle towers above waves skimmed by white-tailed sea eagles. Spot otters on the shores of stunning Loch Na Keal, one of Scotland’s most scenic areas, and explore the distinctive lava landscape of the Ardmaneach peninsula.
Structure and Facilities
Tomsleibhe is a whitewashed stone building with a pitched roof and three internal rooms. Sleeping arrangements include an eight-person double bunk in one room and a two-person sleeping platform in a smaller space. While there is an open hearth for fires, users must bring their own fuel and fire-starting materials. There is no electricity, no running water, and no modern amenities.
The building is maintained by the Mountain Bothies Association, a volunteer-run organisation that preserves remote shelters across the UK. Use is free and first-come, first-served. No booking is required or available. As always, visitors are expected to follow standard bothy etiquette: leave the space clean, take all rubbish out, and respect the building and its surroundings.
Seasonal Considerations
Tomsleibhe Bothy is accessible year-round, but visitors should be aware of seasonal land use. The land surrounding Glen Forsa is managed by Benmore Estate, which conducts regular deer control operations. Stag stalking typically takes place from 15 August to 20 October, followed by hind culling from 21 October to 15 February. Walkers planning to visit during these periods should contact Benmore Estate directly in advance to confirm safe access and avoid active stalking areas. The contact number listed by the Mountain Bothies Association is 01680 300 229.
Dogs are permitted but must be kept under strict control at all times, especially during lambing season or when livestock are present. Fires must be contained within the bothy hearth, and no damage should be done to the structure or surrounding land. Visitors are expected to leave no trace and follow standard bothy etiquette.
The Surrounding Landscape
Glen Forsa is one of Mull’s most expansive glens. The River Forsa runs along the valley floor, and the surrounding hills rise steeply on both sides. Beinn Talaidh dominates the skyline to the east, with its pyramid-like shape and steep flanks making it a popular target for hillwalkers. At 761 metres, it is not the highest peak on Mull, but its prominence and central location make it visually striking.
The glen is home to Highland cattle, buzzards, and occasional red deer. In summer, the track is lined with bracken and wildflowers, while the upper slopes offer panoramic views across Mull’s interior. The area is quiet, with few visitors and no nearby settlements. It is ideal for those seeking a genuine off-grid experience.
What to Bring
Visitors should come fully prepared. There are no supplies at the bothy, and the nearest shops are back in Craignure or Salen. Essentials include:
- Sleeping bag and mat
- Food and cooking equipment
- Water purification method (burn water available nearby)
- Torch or headlamp
- Firewood or fuel if planning to use the hearth
- OS map and compass
- Waterproof clothing and sturdy boots
There is no mobile signal in the glen and no emergency services nearby. Solo travellers should leave a route plan with someone before setting out. Weather conditions can change quickly, even in summer, and the ford may become impassable after heavy rain.
Who It’s For
Tomsleibhe Bothy is not a tourist attraction in the conventional sense. It is for walkers, climbers, and those who understand and respect the ethos of bothy culture. There are no guarantees and no comforts beyond shelter and silence. But for those willing to walk in, carry what they need, and leave no trace, it offers one of the most authentic wilderness experiences on Mull.
Families with older children, solo travellers, and small walking groups will find it rewarding, provided they come prepared. It is not suitable for large parties, casual day-trippers, or anyone expecting serviced accommodation.
Responsible Use
The Mountain Bothies Association relies on users to maintain the integrity of each shelter. That means:
- No fires outside the hearth
- No littering or burying waste
- No damage to walls, bunks, or fittings
- No loud noise or disruptive behaviour
- No commercial use or group bookings
Visitors are encouraged to sign the bothy book, noting date of visit, route taken, and any observations. These entries help track usage and preserve the informal history of the site.
Final Thoughts
Tomsleibhe Bothy is one of Mull’s quiet landmarks. It is unmarked by signage, untouched by tourism infrastructure, and unchanged in its purpose. It offers shelter, solitude, and a direct connection to the land. For visitors who value silence, scale, and self-reliance, it is a place worth reaching.
Whether you are climbing Beinn Talaidh, exploring Glen Forsa, or simply seeking a few hours away from roads and reception, Tomsleibhe stands ready. No booking, no cost, no distractions. Just a door, a fire, and the hills beyond.
