I wish this was a sponsored post, but it’s not. I just really enjoyed my experience 🙂
West Coast Tours’ Three Isles Tour Review:
I recently took the Three Isles Tour with West Coast Tours, and it was one of the best experiences of my trip to Scotland. This day trip is perfect for history buffs and nature lovers, as it takes you to the stunning Isle of Mull, the sacred Isle of Iona, and the geological marvel of Staffa.
I went with my mom, and we had an absolute blast. The scenery was breathtaking, and I loved learning about the history of these islands. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Scotland.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Exploring the ancient Iona monasteries
- Soaring alongside majestic golden eagles
- Enjoying stunning views of the Scottish coastline
Guide to Scotland’s Three Isles Tour:
Getting Started:
Our journey begins in charming Oban, a picture-perfect town nestled on Scotland’s west coast. Here, you’ll collect your tour tickets and board the ferry to Mull Island.
Spotting Lismore Lighthouse
As you sail from Oban to Mull Island, keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Lismore Lighthouse. This Victorian-era beacon has been guiding ships around the Hebridean islands for over 190 years.
Fun facts:
- At 26 meters, Lismore Lighthouse soars over the rocky islet of Eilean Musdile at the mouth of Loch Linnhe.
- Its light flashes for over 17 nautical miles to warn seafarers of treacherous rocks near the harbor entrance!
- The old whitewashed lightkeeper’s house from the 1800s still stands as a reminder of the remote outpost these towers once were. 🏡
Next stop, the magical Isle of Mull!
Unveiling Mull’s Beauty: Bus Tour and Wildlife Encounters
Our Mull Scotland adventure begins! After docking on the island, hop on a comfortable bus for a scenic journey across Mull. But don’t worry, this isn’t just a bus ride – it’s a chance to discover the island’s secrets with a local expert.
Our knowledgeable guide, a local with a passion for the island, shared fascinating stories and insights as we journeyed across Mull. I loved soaking up the stunning scenery—rolling hills, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines. But the real highlight was the wildlife.
Mull is a wildlife watcher’s paradise, with one of the highest densities of golden eagles in Europe. I was lucky enough to spot a few of these majestic birds soaring overhead. We also kept an eye out for other native creatures, like deer, highland cows, and playful porpoises.
This bus tour is a must-do for any nature lover visiting Scotland. It’s more than just transportation—it’s an adventure!
Staffa: Where Myth Meets Majesty
Brace yourself for the crown jewel of your Scottish adventure – Staffa! This dramatic island isn’t just a scenic masterpiece; it’s a geological marvel whispering tales of ancient giants and volcanic fury.
Giants, Myths, and Basalt Columns:
Legend has it that Staffa and its Irish counterpart, the Giant’s Causeway, were birthed from a brawl between two feuding giants: Scotland’s Benandonner and Ireland’s Finn McCool. While the truth might be less whimsical, science offers an equally captivating explanation. Millions of years ago, volcanic eruptions sculpted both Staffa and the Giant’s Causeway, leaving behind their most striking feature – hexagonal basalt columns. These geometric giants, formed by slow-cooling lava, are a testament to the earth’s primordial power.
Staffa’s Untamed Beauty:
Unlike the touristy Giant’s Causeway, Staffa offers a more intimate experience. Prepare to be captivated by the island’s raw, untamed beauty – fewer crowds translate to a more immersive encounter with nature’s grandeur. The views from Staffa, particularly the awe-inspiring Fingal’s Cave, are truly unforgettable. Imagine standing in front of this sea-carved cathedral, its basalt columns echoing the rhythm of the waves – a sight guaranteed to leave you speechless.
Staffa: A Must-See for Adventure Seekers and Nature Enthusiasts
Staffa is more than just a stop on a tour; it’s an experience. Here, you can combine myth and geology, capture stunning natural wonders on camera, and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, are you ready to explore Staffa’s magic for yourself?
Fingal’s Cave and Puffin Paradise
The star of Isle of Staffa Fingal’s Cave! This magnificent sea cave is renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty. Towering basalt columns line the interior, creating a natural cathedral sculpted by volcanic forces. But Fingal’s Cave holds another secret – its acoustics.
In 1830, the famed composer Felix Mendelssohn visited Staffa and was captivated by the sound of the waves echoing within the cave. Inspired by this natural wonder, he penned the iconic “Hebrides Overture.” Unfortunately, when I was there the cave was closed for repair so I couldn’t fully experience it, but its just another reason to come back!
Puffins on Staffa
Transform into a wildlife photographer for the day on Staffa! This tiny island, a mere speck jutting out from Scotland’s west coast, becomes a puffin paradise during the summer months (roughly April to July). These adorable seabirds, with their brightly colored beaks and comical waddles, aren’t shy around visitors. In fact, puffins often come quite close, offering you the chance to capture incredible close-up photos and witness their fascinating behavior.
But these aren’t your average garden birds. Puffins are masters of the deep, capable of diving hundreds of feet underwater in search of fish to feed their chicks. They’re also incredibly social creatures, forming large breeding colonies on islands like Staffa. Keep your eyes peeled for their elaborate courtship rituals and the clumsy (yet endearing) attempts of young puffins learning to fly.
Staffa offers a unique opportunity to witness these charismatic birds in their natural habitat. So grab your camera, embrace the fresh sea air, and prepare to be charmed by the puffins of Staffa – a memory that will undoubtedly find a permanent place and in your heart!
Iona: An Ancient Abbey’s Tale
Leaving Staffa’s dramatic landscapes behind, we set sail for the Isle of Iona. This mystical island, steeped in history and spirituality, feels like stepping back in time. At its heart lies the ancient Iona Abbey, a powerful symbol of faith that has weathered centuries of change.
Founded by Saint Columba in the 6th century, Iona Abbey quickly rose to prominence as a center of Christian learning and pilgrimage. Its influence spread far and wide, leaving a lasting mark on Scotland’s religious landscape.
However, Iona’s journey wasn’t without challenges. In the 8th century, the island became a target for Viking raids. These fierce warriors, seeking treasure and power, plundered the Abbey multiple times. A particularly devastating raid in 806 forced many monks to flee to the Abbey of Kells in Ireland.
Despite facing Viking fury, Iona Abbey persevered. Fueled by unwavering faith, the community rebuilt the Abbey in the 13th century. The impressive structure that stands today is a testament to their resilience and enduring spirit. Iona Abbey’s story is one of resilience, faith, and enduring spiritual significance. Prepare to be awestruck as you explore this historic landmark.
Iona’s Duality: Ancient Stones and Pristine Beaches
While the historic Abbey undoubtedly steals the spotlight, Iona offers a surprising duality for visitors. Beyond the ancient walls lie some of Scotland’s most stunning beaches, waiting to be explored. Imagine this: soft sand caresses your feet, turquoise water laps gently at the shore, and the sound of waves creates a soothing symphony. But here’s the truly incredible part – the very rocks beneath your toes are some of the oldest in Europe, boasting an age of over two billion years! Iona beaches offer a unique blend of beauty and history, making them a must-visit for any traveler.
Hebrides Scotland Farewell: A Timeless Adventure Ends (and Begins Again)
The ferry cuts through the glassy Hebridean water, kicking up a white wake as Oban creeps back into view. Just moments ago, you were awestruck by Fingal’s Cave, the raw power of the ocean echoing through its basalt columns. Now, a deep sense of satisfaction washes over you. The West Coast Tour from Oban wasn’t just about ticking landmarks off a list; it was a journey through time.
Soaring alongside golden eagles, exploring the whisper-filled halls of Iona Abbey, and standing humbled by the ancient landscapes of Mull – these experiences will stay with you long after you return. The Hebrides have a way of weaving their magic under your skin, leaving you with a yearning to delve deeper into their rich history and untamed beauty.
But this Hebridean adventure isn’t truly over. It’s a spark that ignites a fire within, a seed planted for future explorations. As you disembark in Oban, a new travel wish list might already be forming. Perhaps it’s uncovering the mysteries of the Isle of Lewis or diving into the vibrant culture of Skye. The beauty of the West Coast Tour is that it unlocks the door to the entire Hebridean archipelago, a treasure trove waiting to be discovered, piece by piece.
Ready to swap souvenirs for stories? Book your Three Isles adventure today!
2 comments
Comments are closed.