ISLE OF MULL
Coastal Route
Days 3 and 4
Lochbuie to Carsaig 5 miles (8km); approx.2.5hrs
19.4 miles (31.2 km) approx 8.5 hrs
Remember to check Carsaig Bay tide times as there is a place on this route which is impassable at high tide.
You now take the 5 mile coastal footpath to Carsaig . About a mile on and near to the track is St Columba’s well (590244); and further on again there is a rope-assisted step on this section which is also impassable at high tide which can cause a delay of about one hour.(Lochbuie to rope- 1hr 15 mins, rope to Carsaig - 1hr 20 mins). The scenery is stunning and a geologist’s delight – basalt cliffs, stacks & dykes; and the sea views get even better as you approach Carsaig looking across to Islay and Jura. On the foreshore of Carsaig bay you can visit the site of St Mary’s chapel and well; and also the burial ground (528216). From here, if you have the time
you can visit the Nuns’ cave (523204) which has remarkable carvings believed to date back to the 7th century. similar to those in the Scoor cave later on, on the route (418186). Some are believed to date back to the 7th century. In times of persecution the nuns from Ionahad to seek refuge in this cave. From here pilgrims can continue to Malcom’s Point either by the coast or above by the Nun’s Pass (521204).
Lochbuie to Carsaig
NB If accommodaton is not available in Carsaig you could choose to continue walking to Pennyghael, taking the road inland from Carsaig, approx a further 2 hours)
Craignure to Lochbuie Crossroads – 6.4 miles (10.3 km)
Crossroads to Lochbuie – 8 miles (13 km)
Lochbuie to Carsaig - 5 miles (8km) approx 2hrs 35 mins