Calgary Beach: Isle of Mull’s Pristine Coastal Gem
Discover the Isle of Mull’s largest sandy beach, where pristine waters meet rare machair landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Calgary Beach, also known as Calgary Bay, is a stunning white sandy beach on the Isle of Mull’s northwest coast. Renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, expansive shell-sand shore, and surrounding machair habitat rich in wildflowers, it offers a peaceful natural retreat. The beach is easily accessible with nearby parking and features nearby woodland art trails, historic Calgary Castle, and scenic coastal walks, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and explorers.
A brief summary to Calgary Beach
- Isle of Mull, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the nearby Art in Nature woodland trail to enjoy unique sculptures amid native flora.
- Try local Mull ice cream sold from a charming shop made partly from an upturned boat.
- Explore footpaths leading to historic ruins like Inevie and enjoy coastal views along the loop road.
- Use the car park located just 100 yards from the beach for easy access.
- Respect the delicate machair habitat by staying on marked paths and taking all litter home.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Tobermory to Calgary Beach takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes along scenic rural roads. There is a small car park located about 100 yards from the beach, but parking is limited during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services run from Tobermory to Dervaig, from where a taxi or a 5-mile scenic drive west leads to Calgary Beach. Bus frequency is limited, so check schedules in advance. Tickets typically cost around £5–£8.
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Walking
For experienced walkers, it is possible to hike from Dervaig to Calgary Beach via rural paths and minor roads. The walk covers about 8 km over mixed terrain and takes roughly 2 to 3 hours. Suitable footwear and preparation are recommended.
Calgary Beach location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Calgary Beach
A Coastal Treasure on the Isle of Mull
Calgary Beach, or Calgary Bay, is the largest and most accessible beach on the Isle of Mull’s northwest coast, situated about five miles west of the village of Dervaig. This expansive white sandy shore sweeps gently along the Atlantic, offering visitors a spectacular setting of crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft shell sand. The beach is backed by machair, a rare coastal grassland habitat unique to the west coasts of Scotland and Ireland, where calcium-rich sandy soils nurture a diverse array of wildflowers and grasses. This ecological richness adds a vibrant splash of color and life to the beach’s natural beauty.Natural and Cultural Surroundings
Beyond the beach itself, Calgary is framed by low wooded hills and a broad area of machair that creates a tranquil meadow-like environment. A small river meanders across the sands at low tide, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. Nearby, the woodland area known as ‘Art in Nature’ features winding trails dotted with sculptures, carvings, and art installations, blending creativity with the natural landscape. Overlooking the bay is Calgary Castle, a historic 19th-century estate built in the 1820s by Captain Alan MacAskill, adding a touch of heritage and architectural interest to the area.Historical Roots and Viking Influence
The name Calgary derives from the Gaelic "Cala ghearraidh," meaning "Beach of the meadow (pasture)," reflecting the pastoral character of the area. It is also believed to have Old Norse roots, with words meaning "cold" and "garden," hinting at the Viking presence in the Inner Hebrides. The small stone pier at Calgary was historically used by steam-driven cargo boats to deliver coal and transport sheep grazing on nearby islands, linking the beach to the island’s working past.Visitor Experience and Activities
Calgary Beach is renowned for its shallow, gently sloping shore, making it ideal for family outings, beachcombing, and exploring rock pools. The nearby Carthouse Gallery and Tearoom offer refreshments, including local Mull ice cream sold from a quirky shop fashioned partly from an upturned boat. For walkers, footpaths lead to the old pier and the ruins of historic townships such as Inevie and Arin, while the coastal loop road offers dramatic views along the cliffs toward Treshnish and Ulva Ferry.Wildlife and Conservation
The machair habitat supports a rich variety of wildlife, including numerous bird species and wildflowers, making Calgary Beach a favored spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The area’s ecological importance is recognized locally, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment to preserve its unique character.Accessibility and Amenities
This beach is the most easily accessed on Mull, with a car park located just 100 yards from the shore and public toilets nearby. While it is not an official campsite, there is a designated area for short-stay wild camping in tents. The combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and visitor facilities makes Calgary Beach a welcoming destination year-round.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tobermory Clock Tower
13.9 km
Historic granite clock tower memorializing local heritage, standing proudly by Tobermory’s colourful harbour on the Isle of Mull.
St John's Scottish Episcopal Cathedral : Oban
52.7 km
An unfinished masterpiece where Gothic ambition meets industrial-age engineering in Scotland's most unusual cathedral.
McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
53.0 km
Explore Oban’s iconic McCaig's Tower, a Colosseum-inspired folly with stunning views and tranquil gardens atop Battery Hill.
Barcaldine Castle
54.4 km
Experience the haunting beauty and rich history of Barcaldine Castle, a 17th-century Scottish fortress overlooking Loch Creran.
Glenfinnan Viaduct
61.4 km
Explore the enchanting Glenfinnan Viaduct, a marvel of engineering surrounded by stunning Scottish landscapes and rich history.
Ardchattan Priory
61.8 km
Explore the historic Ardchattan Priory, a serene blend of ancient ruins and botanical beauty near Oban, Scotland.
Barnhill
63.4 km
George Orwell's remote Hebridean sanctuary where Nineteen Eighty-Four was born.
Dunscaith Castle
64.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning views at Dunscaith Castle, a must-see landmark on the beautiful Isle of Skye in Scotland.
Kilmartin Museum
69.6 km
Discover 12,000 years of history at Kilmartin Museum, where ancient artefacts meet the stunning prehistoric landscape of Kilmartin Glen.
Nether Largie Mid Cairn
69.7 km
Bronze Age burial cairn at the heart of Scotland's most significant prehistoric landscape, carved with rare axehead symbols.
Nether Largie South Cairn
69.9 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of Nether Largie South Cairn, a captivating historical landmark in Lochgilphead, Scotland, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Nether Largie Standing Stones
70.1 km
Discover the ancient allure of Nether Largie Standing Stones, a remarkable historical landmark and hiking area nestled in the stunning landscape of Argyll, Scotland.
Wild About Argyll
71.0 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Wild About Argyll, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Scotland.
Dunchraigaig Cairn
71.1 km
Explore the ancient Dunchraigaig Cairn, a historical landmark steeped in mystery and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes in Kilmartin Glen.
Ruvaal Lighthouse
72.1 km
Victorian lighthouse guarding the Sound of Islay, designed by the legendary Stevenson engineers in 1859.
Unmissable attractions to see
Calgary Bay Mull
0.2 km
Discover Calgary Bay’s stunning shell-sand beach, unique machair grasslands, and rich heritage on the scenic Isle of Mull coast.
Calgary Art In Nature
0.7 km
Discover a magical woodland sculpture trail blending art, nature, and stunning coastal views on the Isle of Mull.
Langamull Beach
2.9 km
A pristine white-sand beach hidden on Mull's north-west coast, where turquoise waters and dramatic coastal views reward the scenic walk.
Port na Ba
4.0 km
Discover Port na Ba, a tranquil white sandy beach on Mull’s northwest coast with turquoise waters and stunning island vistas.
Bellachroy Hotel
5.9 km
Discover Mull’s oldest inn, The Bellachroy Hotel, where historic charm meets local flavors in the scenic village of Dervaig.
The Old Byre Heritage Centre
6.2 km
Discover Mull’s natural wonders and heritage in a charming stone byre museum with engaging exhibits and a cozy tearoom in scenic Glen Bellart.
The Black Beach
6.4 km
Discover the Isle of Mull’s volcanic Black Beach, a serene coastal escape with unique black sands and breathtaking island views.
Kilmore Standing Stones
6.7 km
Ancient granite monoliths in a quiet woodland clearing on the Isle of Mull, part of a wider Bronze Age ritual landscape.
Loch Torr Wildlife Hide
7.9 km
Discover peaceful wildlife watching at Loch Torr Hide, a tranquil spot on Mull famed for stags, ospreys, and stunning natural views.
Dùn Ara rakuwka
8.5 km
Explore the rugged ruins of Dùn Ara Castle, a medieval clan stronghold perched on the wild northern coast of the Isle of Mull.
Glengorm Castle
9.0 km
Experience historic Highland charm and stunning coastal views at Glengorm Castle, a serene self-catering retreat on the Isle of Mull.
CazzieMarc Viewpoint
11.1 km
Discover serene panoramic views and untouched natural beauty at CazzieMarc Viewpoint on the Isle of Mull.
Eas Fors Waterfall
11.4 km
Discover the wild beauty of Eas Fors Waterfall, a dramatic triple cascade plunging into the sea on Mull’s rugged west coast.
Eas Fors Waterfall Parking
11.5 km
Convenient roadside parking for exploring the breathtaking triple-tiered Eas Fors Waterfall on the Isle of Mull’s rugged west coast.
Isle of Mull Cheese and Spirit
12.6 km
Discover the award-winning Isle of Mull cheese and spirit at Sgriob-ruadh Farm’s charming Glass Barn café and shop, where tradition meets sustainability.
Essential places to dine
Am Birlinn
3.7 km
Rustic charm meets fresh seafood in a cozy, contemporary setting on the scenic Isle of Mull.
Hebridean Lodge
13.4 km
A charming coastal restaurant near Tobermory serving fresh local seafood with stunning island views and warm hospitality.
Macgochans
13.7 km
Waterfront gastropub with stunning bay views, fresh Scottish seafood, and warm Hebridean hospitality.
The Galleon Bistro Tobermory
13.9 km
Family-run harbour-side bistro in Tobermory offering fresh local seafood, Scottish classics, and a warm, accessible dining experience on the Isle of Mull.
Spice of Mull
13.9 km
Experience authentic Indian, Bangladeshi, Thai, and Chinese flavors in a cozy Tobermory setting with stunning harbor views.
An Cala Ciuin
14.1 km
Traditional Scottish hospitality with harbour views and hearty fare in the heart of Tobermory’s historic Mishnish Hotel.
Cafe Fish, Upper Floor, The Pier, Tobermory
14.1 km
Experience Tobermory’s freshest seafood with stunning harbour views at the acclaimed Cafe Fish on the Isle of Mull.
Ninth Wave Restaurant
28.3 km
Intimate seafood dining in a historic croft on the Isle of Mull, blending local flavors with refined culinary artistry.
The Creel Seafood Bar
28.7 km
Fresh, locally caught seafood served with friendly charm near the ferry to Iona on the scenic Isle of Mull.
The Whitehouse Restaurant
31.2 km
An intimate fine dining haven in Lochaline serving innovative Scottish cuisine with fresh, local, and foraged ingredients in a historic coastal setting.
Tigh An Truish
51.7 km
Charming inn and acclaimed restaurant with stunning views of the iconic Clachan Bridge, offering exquisite local cuisine and cozy accommodations.
EE-USK
52.7 km
Fresh, locally sourced seafood served with panoramic harbor views on Oban’s historic North Pier.
Food From Argyll at the Pier
52.7 km
A vibrant café at Oban’s ferry terminal serving fresh, locally sourced Argyll produce with stunning waterfront views.
Taste of Argyll Kitchen
52.9 km
Cozy Scottish kitchen in Oban serving fresh, local dishes with a creative touch and warm hospitality.
Restaurant at the Isle of Eriska
53.4 km
Experience Michelin-starred dining on a private Scottish island, where local flavours and historic charm meet breathtaking Highland views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Premier
5.8 km
Your friendly local Premier store on Mull’s Main Street, offering groceries, postal services, and community warmth in Dervaig village.
Glengorm Gardens and Florist
8.9 km
Discover the serene Victorian walled gardens and artisan florist of Glengorm Estate, a floral and horticultural gem on the Isle of Mull’s rugged northern coast.
Hasn Candle Company
13.5 km
Discover handcrafted candles inspired by the natural beauty and seasonal scents of the Isle of Mull in Tobermory’s welcoming artisan shop.
Trekomory Breeze
13.7 km
Trekomory Breeze offers practical outdoor clothing and accessories in Tobermory, blending local charm with quality gear for every adventurer.
Tobermory Stores
13.7 km
Tobermory Stores offers essential shopping with local charm in the heart of Isle of Mull’s colorful main street.
Isle Of Mull Soap Co Ltd
13.8 km
Discover handmade natural soaps and eco-friendly gifts crafted with care in the heart of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Island Crafts
13.8 km
Discover authentic Isle of Mull artistry and handcrafted treasures in the heart of Tobermory’s vibrant craft scene.
Seafare
13.8 km
Tobermory’s trusted chandlery since 1977, offering essential marine safety gear and supplies in the heart of the Isle of Mull’s harbor town.
Island Blue Tobermory
13.8 km
Discover authentic Isle of Mull crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Tobermory’s vibrant Main Street.
Co-op Food - Tobermory
13.9 km
Tobermory’s largest convenience store offering fresh island produce and everyday essentials in the heart of the Isle of Mull.
Glassy Candles of Mull
14.0 km
Discover handcrafted candles and local artisan treasures in the heart of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.
Tobermory Antiques & Collectibles
14.0 km
Discover unique vintage treasures steeped in the heritage and charm of Tobermory’s colorful Isle of Mull harbor town.
Tobermory Corner Shop
14.0 km
Experience local charm and unique finds at Tobermory Corner Shop, your gateway to the Isle of Mull's treasures.
Hargreaves Bros
14.0 km
Discover timeless craftsmanship and expert clock repair at Hargreaves Bros, Tobermory’s cherished watch shop on the Isle of Mull.
The Ferry Shop
28.7 km
Your essential stop for groceries, island produce, and local services in Fingal on the Isle of Mull.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tobermory Hotel
13.8 km
Historic boutique hotel with stunning Tobermory Bay views, local cuisine, and warm Highland hospitality on the Isle of Mull’s vibrant waterfront.
Mishnish
14.1 km
A traditional Scottish hotel and bar in Tobermory, famed for cosy harbour views, live folk music, and warm island hospitality.
Auld Mull Bar
14.1 km
Experience warm island hospitality and local flavors at Auld Mull Bar, a cozy family-run retreat in Tobermory’s charming harbor village.
Western Isles Hotel
14.1 km
Historic hotel with breathtaking Tobermory Bay views, classic charm, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Mull.
Snack Bar
28.7 km
Experience the charm of the Isle of Mull at the Snack Bar, where delightful bites and stunning views create unforgettable memories.
The Keel Row
28.7 km
Cozy pub and restaurant in Fionnphort offering hearty Scottish dishes, scenic bay views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Isle of Mull.
Bunessan Inn
29.3 km
Historic Isle of Mull pub and inn offering hearty food, local whiskies, cozy rooms, and stunning loch views in a warm community setting.
Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
36.5 km
A welcoming coastal retreat on the Isle of Mull, blending scenic views, spa relaxation, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Craignure Inn
37.6 km
A cozy, dog-friendly pub and inn in Craignure offering hearty fare, comfortable rooms, and a warm welcome on the Isle of Mull.
The Oyster Bar
50.0 km
A charming seafood haven in historic Ellenabeich, offering fresh oysters, scenic coastal views, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Markie Dans
52.5 km
Family-run pub in Oban offering vast single malts, hearty food, live music, and stunning bay views in a welcoming, lively atmosphere.
The Tartan Tavern
52.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and traditional charm at The Tartan Tavern, a cozy and lively pub in the heart of Oban.
Cellar Bar
52.7 km
Cozy and traditional Scottish pub on Oban’s waterfront, famed for local whiskies, live music, and warm hospitality.
Lorne Bar
53.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, fresh local seafood, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Oban at The Lorne Bar.
Colonsay Pub
56.9 km
Experience authentic island hospitality and local brews at Colonsay Pub, the vibrant social hub of the Isle of Colonsay.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Roobarb
75.9 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Jura Brewery
84.2 km
Discover Jura Brewery: A Craft Beer Experience in the Heart of the Isle of Jura, Where Tradition Meets Nature's Bounty.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
92.8 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly