Mull Coast to Coast - Killiechronan to Salen

Mull narrows in its central part to a slender neck, and only 4km separates the head of the sea-loch Loch na Keal from the Sound of Mull. This linear coast-to-coast walk thus crosses the island in the space of a short walk - though it is very wet underfoot in places. The walk requires either a drop-off at the start, a taxi ride for the return or doubling the distance by walking back - there is no public transport to the start.

Terrain

Track then hill path; some sections are very boggy.

Public Transport

Salen is served by buses between Tobermory and Craignure, but there is no bus to the start of the walk.

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Start

Parking area just W of Killiechronan. Map and directions.

grade
Grade (key)

Bog Factor (key)

Walk Statistics

Distance: 4.25km/2.5 miles
Time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Ascent: 96m (Profile)
Grid Ref: NM538412

Maps / GPS

View / Print route map
Buy Explorer 374 - Mull North
GPS Waypoints - QUO 2
GPS Waypoints - GPX
View in 3D
Download walk to Google Earth (KMZ file)

Accommodation

Walk Description

Stage 1

There is a small parking area on the B8073 just west of Killiechronan, opposite a couple of houses. From here, walk back along the road towards Salen and then turn left onto a track beside the large boulder inscribed 'Killiechronan'. Take the central one of the three tracks here, heading uphill, and then turn right at the next fork. The track passes through a gate and some woodland, then reaching a white-washed cottage with walled garden out the back.

Stage 2

Looking back there are views to Ben More; continue gently climbing until it forks just short of a plantation. Take the right hand fork through a gate and into the trees. The woods are a mix of plantation forestry with birches, Scots Pine and rhododendrons. The track ends and the walk continues as a path bearing slightly left, and soon passing through a curious fenced section. The going underfoot becomes very boggy, and the trees gradually thin to more open moorland.

Stage 3

After crossing a burn a narrow path comes down from Cnoc na Sroine on the left. Continue ahead, climbing slightly. While passing through the native woodland fragments at Doire nam Pioghaid the going becomes very boggy for a time and it is necessary to detour in places to avoid the worst of the mud.

Stage 4

The path eventually improves once more and runs across a more open area, eventually with views to Salen. Soon Airigh Mhic Dhomnuill is reached - a fine native woodland with a mix of mighty oak trees and birches. Finally the path descends through the trees to emerge in Salen beside the old church. Turn right along the main road to reach the centre of Salen.

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Route Profile

Walking can be dangerous and is done entirely at your own risk. Information is provided free of charge; it is each walkers' responsibility to check it and navigate using a map and compass.