If you love wild beaches, rugged landscapes, and long walks in nature – and you want to share it all with your furry friend – the Isle of Mull is the perfect place for you. From miles of dog-friendly trails to quiet, empty beaches and cosy cottages that welcome four-legged guests, Mull is an island that invites you to slow down, explore, and make memories with your dog by your side. Whether you’re dreaming of sandy shores, woodlands, or a cosy fire to curl up next to, this guide will help you discover the best dog friendly accommodation Isle of Mull has to offer, along with tips for making the most of your trip.
Why Isle of Mull is Great Place for Dogs
Mull is a paradise for dogs and their humans. Here’s why:
- Endless walks on beaches, moorland, and coastal trails.
- Quiet, uncrowded spaces where dogs can explore in peace.
- Dog-friendly cafés and pubs – many spots are happy to welcome well-behaved dogs.
- Outdoor lifestyle that suits active dogs: wild swims, hikes, and beach runs.
- A sense of freedom – fewer fences, more wide-open spaces!
Just remember: Mull is also home to livestock, such as sheep and Highland cows, so always keep dogs on a lead near animals and respect the countryside.
Top Tips for Staying on Isle of Mull with Dogs
- Pack the essentials: leads, water bowls, dog towels, and waste bags.
- Check ferry policies: Dogs are welcome on CalMac ferries but must stay on a lead.
- Watch for livestock: Keep dogs under control around sheep and cattle.
- Midges and ticks: Especially in summer, check your dog’s fur daily.
- Leave no trace: Always clean up after your dog to keep Mull beautiful for everyone.
Best Areas to Stay with Dogs on Isle of Mull
Tobermory (North Mull) – A charming harbour town with dog-friendly pubs, easy access to woodland walks like Aros Park, and close to beaches like Calgary Bay.
The Ross of Mull (Southwest) – For beach lovers, this is dog heaven. Stay near Bunessan or Fionnphort for easy access to Fidden Beach, Uisken Beach, and walks like Knockvologan to Erraid.
Central Mull – Craignure, Salen, and Lochbuie offer a mix of coast and hills, with walks like Ben More or Lochbuie within easy reach.
Iona (Day Trips Only) – While dogs are welcome on Iona’s beaches and trails, they can’t enter Iona Abbey. The ferry from Fionnphort to Iona is dog-friendly, making it a great day-trip option.
Dog Friendly Accommodation Isle of Mull
Dog Friendly Cottages Isle of Mull
- Driftwood Cottage, Craignure – Beautiful cosy and spacious cottage with coastal views. Dogs are allowed for a small fee.
- Normanns Ruh, Fanmore – A peaceful retreat with garden space for dogs. Perfect for those who love nature. One of the best dog friendly cottages Isle of Mull has to offer.
- Bramble Cottage, Lochdon – Peaceful one-bedroom cottage with open views across Loch Don. Cosy, well-equipped, and ideally located near Craignure for easy access to ferries and walks.
- Bad Daraich, Tobermory – Spacious, dog-friendly home just a 5-minute stroll from Tobermory’s main street, offering breathtaking views. A cottage with a log-burning fireplace, ideal for those who want enjoy a bit of luxury dog friendly cottages Isle of Mull can offer.
- Cragaig Bothy, Ulva – Remote and off-grid, this cosy bothy on the Island of Ulva is a haven for those who want to unplug. It can be reached by a 2‑hour hike from the ferry. With no mains electricity, it’s powered by a wood burner that heats both the space and water.
Glamping Isle of Mull
Our Tip: Cala Fearnadh Off-Grid Cabin, Bunessan – A rustic, eco-friendly escape, solar-powered and off-grid, brilliant for nature lovers looking to unplug. Log burner, stunning views, peace and your dog will be even provided with a mat. Without a doubt, one of the best glamping Isle of Mull has to offer.
- Port nan Gael Pods, Ross of Mull – Dog-friendly pods with en-suite facilities and access to Loch Scridain. Stunning views on a loch right from the bed.
- The Hideouts at Port Nan Gael Campsite – Cosy wooden cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Nestled right on the shore of Loch Scridain with stunning views.
- Glamping at Shieling Holidays, Craignure – Waterfront glamping chalets with stunning sea views across the Sound of Mull. Cosy, and well-equipped with an easy ferry access.
Isle of Mull B&B and Isle of Mull Dog Friendly Hotels
- The Bellachroy, Dervaig – Mull’s oldest inn and one of the best Isle of Mull dog friendly hotels, welcomes dogs in the bar and some rooms. Breakfast is included in the price.
- The Western Isles Hotel, Tobermory – Classic charm with sea views and dog-friendly rooms. Breakfast is included in the price.
- The Tobermory Hotel – A boutique seafront hotel in a colourful Georgian building right on Tobermory’s harbour. Cosy rooms, great food, and a warm, dog-friendly welcome. Breakfast included.
- Glenelg Isle of Mull B&B – This charming Isle of Mull B&B nestled in a historic Georgian building just a 5-minute stroll from Tobermory’s main street. With beautifully styled rooms and breakfast, Glenelg offers a warm, dog-friendly welcome.
Luxury Dog Friendly Accommodation Isle of Mull
- Beach House near Salen – A spacious and stylish five-bedroom retreat with stunning views. With a cosy fireplace, garden, and jacuzzi-style bathrooms, it’s ideal for those seeking comfort, breathtaking scenery, and direct access to the wild beauty.
- Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa, Craignure – A luxurious 4★ retreat right beside the Craignure ferry terminal. It offers rooms with sea views, a popular AA Rosette bistro, and a Driftwood Spa with a pool, sauna, steam room, hot tub, and outdoor spa deck. It’s one of the best Isle of Mull dog friendly hotels.
- Torloisk House, Kilninian - A grand 18th-century house, perfect for family gatherings. It offers sea views, gardens and reception rooms. With an open fireplace and a full kitchen, it blends old-world charm with comfort.
- Carnanamish, Tobermory – Modern and spacious four-bedroom home with breathtaking views of the harbour. It’s perfect for families or groups seeking a stylish base close to town and walking trails.
- Esk Lodge near Salen – A charming glamping Isle of Mull offers which is nestled in woods. Incredibly cosy and peaceful but still a short walk from the coast and village shop and pub.
Dog Friendly Activities on the Isle of Mull
Isle of Mull offers activities that both you and your dog can enjoy. Here are some top picks:
1. Calgary Bay – A stunning white sand beach on the northwest coast, perfect for off-lead play. The nearby Art in Nature trail provides a woodland walk with sculptures to discover.
2. Ardalanish Beach – Located on the Ross of Mull, this beach is ideal for dogs to run freely. The adjacent Ardalanish Farm and Weaving Mill welcome visitors and their dogs.
3. Knockvologan Beach – A remote beach offering low-tide walks to the tidal island of Erraid. Ensure you check tide times and keep dogs on a lead due to grazing livestock.
4. Uisken Beach – A quiet, sheltered beach in the south, great for picnics and paddling. Its calm waters make it suitable for dogs that enjoy swimming.
5. Aros Park – Boasts a network of trails through woodlands and around lochs. Dogs will enjoy the varied terrain and you will have the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
6. Scallastle Forest – Just outside Craignure, this forest trail offers a circular route with views over the Sound of Mull. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs after arriving on the ferry
7. Ben More – For the more adventurous, Mull’s only Munro provides a challenging hike with rewarding views. Ensure your dog is fit for the climb and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
8. Isle of Ulva – Accessible by a short ferry ride, Ulva offers several walking trails through diverse landscapes. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a lead due to livestock.
9. Lochbuie to Moy Castle – This coastal walk leads to the ruins of Moy Castle and the scenic Laggan Sands. It’s a relatively easy walk suitable for most dogs.
10. Duart Castle Grounds – While dogs aren’t allowed inside the castle, the surrounding grounds offer pleasant walks with panoramic views.
11. Glengorm Castle Estate – The estate features various trails through moorland and along the coast. The on-site café welcomes dogs in the outdoor seating area.
12. Wildlife Tours – Some boat tours, like those offered by Staffa Tours, allow well-behaved dogs on board. Experience the thrill of spotting puffins and other marine life together.
13. Eas Fors Waterfalls – A series of waterfalls near Dervaig offers a short walk with dramatic views. Ensure dogs are kept on a lead near cliff edges.
14. Isle of Iona Walks – This beautiful island has been created for walks, you and your furry friend will enjoy discovering the beautiful beach this island has to offer.
15. Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse Walk – A lovely coastal walk from Tobermory to the lighthouse, with forest paths, sea views, and the chance to spot seals and seabirds.
Dog Friendly Dining Options
After a day of exploring, enjoy a meal at one of Isle of Mull’s dog-friendly establishments:
- The Bellachroy: Situated in Dervaig, offering traditional pub classics and Scottish dishes.
- Calgary Café: Near Calgary Bay, serving sandwiches, daily specials, and cakes.
- The Keel Row: Located in Fionnphort, perfect for a meal before or after visiting Iona.
- Croft 3: A stylish, dog-friendly restaurant and cafe serving seasonal Scottish dishes with sweeping sea views.
- The Lazy Cow Café – A rustic, pet-friendly café in Fionnphort offering hearty lunches, homemade cakes, and local produce
Final Thoughts and Tips
This island is a haven for dog owners, offering diverse landscapes, welcoming dog friendly accommodation, and numerous activities to enjoy together. Whether you’re hiking, strolling along a beach, or relaxing in a cosy cottage, Mull provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable adventures with your four-legged friend. If you enjoyed the Island, we recommend visiting nearby Isle of Mull with your furry friend.
