North Mull - Tobermory to Salen

Navigating The Route

This is a circular Detective Mystery that combines a scenic driving tour with a series of short investigative walks around North Mull. Detectives will travel through Tobermory, Dervaig, Calgary Bay, Kilninian, Ulva Ferry and Salen as they gather evidence in the curious case of the fallen Laird.

The investigation covers approximately 35 miles of driving and 1.5 miles of walking, spread across several locations. Walking sections include village streets, churchyards, woodland paths, beaches and viewpoints. Some paths can be wet, muddy and uneven, so sturdy waterproof footwear is strongly recommended.

Important: Much of the route follows single-track Highland roads, many of them narrow, winding and shared with livestock, cyclists and local traffic. Detectives should drive carefully, make good use of passing places and allow extra time for the journey.

Some clue locations are near the coast, beaches and piers. Please supervise younger detectives carefully around water and take extra care on uneven ground, particularly in wet weather.

Getting There

By car: This Trail is designed to be completed by car. Your investigation begins at the clock tower on Main Street in Tobermory (PA75 6NU). Parking is available along the harbour front or, if spaces are limited, at Ledaig Car Park (PA75 6NR) nearby.

Need the Loo?

Even top detectives need a comfort break during a lengthy investigation!

Thankfully, facilities are available at several points around the case. Public toilets can be found in Tobermory near the start, at Dervaig after Clue 08, at Calgary Bay around Clue 13, and again in Salen near Clue 19, making it easy to plan your stops as you work your way around the island.

Bring Your Furry Sidekicks

Four-legged detectives are welcome on the case!

North Mull offers plenty of opportunities for canine companions to enjoy beaches, woodland paths and scenic walks alongside the investigation. Just keep leads handy near livestock, roads, wildlife and cliff or shoreline edges.

Food & Drink Stops

Cracking a case across half an island is hungry work!

Chief Inspector Laura Norder strongly recommends stocking up on provisions in Tobermory before setting off, as facilities become more spread out once you head into the countryside.

You'll also pass cafés, inns and picnic-worthy locations throughout the day, particularly around Dervaig, Calgary Bay and Salen. Calgary Bay is an especially good spot for a scenic lunch break while comparing suspect notes and narrowing down your shortlist.

Want to Make a Day of It?

Tobermory's Colourful Waterfront
The island's capital is famous for its brightly painted harbour buildings and maritime atmosphere. Younger detectives may also recognise it as the setting that inspired the BBC's TV series 'Balamory'.

Calgary Bay
One of Mull's most spectacular beaches, Calgary Bay combines white sands, turquoise water and magnificent views. It's easily one of the highlights of the investigation and well worth lingering over once your clue solving there is complete.

Ulva Ferry and Loch na Keal
The route includes wonderful views across to Ulva and Loch na Keal National Scenic Area. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, seabirds and the dramatic Highland landscapes that make this corner of Mull so special. You could even choose to extend your case with an optional ferry trip to Ulva (though there are no clues to solve there!)

Optional Post-case Detour - Aros Castle
Once you've completed your case, on your return journey to Tobermory, look out for Aros Castle near Aros Mains. This 13th century stronghold of the MacDougall clan stands in a dramatic position overlooking the Sound of Mull and makes an excellent extra stop for history-loving detectives.