The best gravel rides around Mull

Mull offers a selection of gravel bike trails, with five routes detailed in this guide. These routes range in difficulty from moderate to difficult, providing options for various skill levels.

The gravel bike trails on Mull feature a diverse landscape, including coastal paths, scenic lochside trails, and rolling hills. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with varied elevations that include sustained climbs and descents. The routes often traverse open moorland and sheltered valleys, offering a true island cycling experience.

While many routes on Mull present a challenge, there are moderate options suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride. For example, the Tobermory Harbour – Main Street Climb, Tobermory loop from Tobermory is a moderate 25.4 km trail that can be completed in under two hours, offering a good introduction to the island's gravel paths. Another moderate option is the Tobermory Harbour – Tobermory Bakery Tea Room loop from Tobermory, which is 15.5 km long.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, Mull has several difficult routes. The Tobermory Harbour – Loch Frisa Lakeside Trail loop from Tobermory is a demanding 82.5 km trail with significant elevation gain, offering extensive views along Loch Frisa. Another difficult option is the Loch Frisa Lakeside Trail – Loch Frisa loop from Burg, which covers 49.2 km and explores the loch from a different starting point.

The duration varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. Shorter, moderate trails like the Tobermory Harbour – Tobermory Bakery Tea Room loop from Tobermory can be completed in about an hour. Longer, more difficult routes, such as the Tobermory Harbour – Loch Frisa Lakeside Trail loop from Tobermory, can take over five hours to finish.

Yes, parking is generally available at common starting points for trails, particularly in larger villages like Tobermory or near popular attractions. For routes starting from specific locations like Glengorm, designated parking areas are usually provided. Always check local signage for any restrictions or fees.

The best time for gravel biking on Mull is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall. However, Mull's weather can be unpredictable, so always be prepared for changing conditions regardless of the season.

Given Mull's changeable weather, it's advisable to pack layers, including waterproof and windproof outer shells. Essential items include a repair kit, spare tubes, plenty of water and snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged phone. Navigation tools, such as a GPS device or the komoot app with offline maps, are also highly recommended.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails on Mull are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Glengorm Castle – Wooden Bridge loop from Glengorm and the Tobermory Harbour – Main Street Climb, Tobermory loop from Tobermory, which offer convenient circular options.

Mull's trails often pass by or near significant points of interest. You might encounter historical sites like Gylen Castle or the famous Iona Abbey and Nunnery. For natural beauty, routes can offer views of peaks like Ben More Summit or Ben Hiant. The Glengorm Castle – Wooden Bridge loop from Glengorm route, for instance, starts near the historic Glengorm Castle.

The gravel biking experience on Mull is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders frequently praise the stunning coastal and lochside scenery, the sense of wildness and remoteness, and the varied terrain that keeps rides engaging. The opportunity to explore the island's unique geography and wildlife is also a common highlight.

Yes, routes starting or passing through villages like Tobermory offer opportunities for refreshments. The Tobermory Harbour – Tobermory Bakery Tea Room loop from Tobermory, for example, is a shorter route that includes a stop at the Tobermory Bakery Tea Room, perfect for a break. Many other routes will bring you close to local establishments in the island's small communities.