Scottish Island Hopping Itinerary: 5 stunning islands in 10 days!

Dreaming of exploring the wild and beautiful Scottish islands, but put off by the crowds of Skye? This island-hopping itinerary takes you through the Inner Hebrides’ highlights to some of the lesser known islands: the rugged beauty of Mull, the spiritual calm of Iona, the puffins and sea caves of Staffa, the whisky heartland of Islay, and the remote wilderness of Jura.  

This is a pretty tight itinerary but is perfectly do-able with only 6 days off work; the perfect addition to a bank holiday. Of course if you have more time available you could easily extend the trip to two weeks, or even longer, and really get to know the islands.

With a mix of ferry journeys, historic sites, whisky tasting, wildlife encounters, and coastal hikes, this is the ultimate guide to planning your adventure.  We’ll assume you’re starting in Glasgow, so adjust your timings from there.

Day 1 - The scenic route to Mull

Most travellers to Mull will arrive on the island at Craignure, having taken the ferry from Oban.  We decided to add in an extra wee ferry and take the scenic drive to Lochaline on the Morvern peninsula. 

Leaving Glasgow you will follow the road along the western shore of Loch Lomond, through the villages of Crianlarich and Tyndrum, and onto the majestic (although very busy) Glencoe. The Real Food Cafe in Tyndrum is worth a stop for a traditional Scottish breakfast or a quick cup of coffee. 

Cross the Ballachulish Bridge and continue on to Corran, where you take the Corran Ferry over to the Morvern peninsula. This 5 minute ferry is operated by Highland Council and runs approximately every half hour.  It is a non-bookable service and payment can be made onboard by card or cash.

Once over in Morven follow the road towards Strontian, then turn left along the southern shore of Loch Sunart, and take the single track road to Lochaline.

From Lochaline take the first of your Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) ferries over to Fishnish on Mull.  The MV Lochinvar runs approximately every hour and takes around 20 minutes to make the crossing.  This is another ‘turn-up and go’ service, so cannot be booked in advance.  Tickets are purchased at the port as you arrive.

On arrival at Fishnish, head north to the colourful seafront town of Tobermory. Spend the evening wandering the harbor and sampling local seafood.  We recommend the famous Mishnish Hotel for their delicious local food and live music nights.  Sarah particularly enjoyed the Cullen Skink, which was packed with seafood.

Day 2 - Exploring North Mull

Discover Mull’s wild northern coast, with a drive up to the beautiful white sandy beach at Calgary, passing through the village of Dervaig with its unusual white round tower church. 

Once you’ve had your fill of the beach, and maybe an ice cream from Robin’s Boat ice cream shop, you can either camp at the Calgary Beach Campsite (which was fairly full when we visited) or head on down the west coast to the small campsite at Killiechronan.  The drive down the west coast is stunning, with views out to the islands of Ulva and Gometra, past the Eas Fors Waterfall, then along the side of Loch na Keal.

Day 3 - Fionnphort on the Ross of Mull

From Killiechronan you can either follow the western coast road towards Clachandhu, or cut back across the island to Salen and head down the east coast.  We intended to travel west, but the road was closed by a landslide when we were there!  Whichever way you travel you will eventually end up on the southern shore of Loch Scridain, passing through Pennyghael, then on to Bunessan and Fionnphort (pronounced finn-eh-fort).

We highly recommend the campsite at Fidden Farm, with its waterfront pitches and stunning views over the bay.

It’s a pleasant walk from the campsite into Fionnphort, where you can enjoy a delicious meal at the Keel Row pub (booking advised) or grab some fresh, local seafood from the Creel Seafood Bar. 

Day 4 - Day Trip to Iona & Staffa

A must-do highlight of this itinerary was our trip to Staffa.  We took the boat from Fionnphort out to Staffa with Staffa Tours, and had an amazing experience. We were incredibly lucky to witness a mass feeding frenzy on our way to Staffa, with dozens of Gannets, a huge pod of Common Dolphins, and four Minke Whales all vying for food.

Once on Staffa, we walked along the incredible hexagonal basalt columns to the famous Fingal’s Cave and headed up onto the top of the island to the puffin breeding grounds.  Early August is late in the season for puffins, but we still managed to catch sight of a couple of birds flying into their nests.  Sarah also was lucky enough to spot an Orca off the coast of Staffa on her way back to the harbour, which we believe was one of the last two remaining West Coast Resident Orcas.

The boat calls into Iona on the way back to Fionnphort, so if you take the morning tour out to Staffa, you'll have time to jump off and explore Iona too.  You can then make your own way back to Fionnphort as a foot passenger on the Calmac ferry.

On Iona, you can explore the iconic Abbey and ruined Nunnery, visit the local art and craft galleries, and enjoy the peaceful beaches of this spiritual island. Why not stop for a drink and enjoy the harbour views from the Argyll Hotel while you wait for the ferry.

Day 5 - Ferry to Oban & onwards to Islay

The ferry from Oban to Islay only sails on a Wednesday and Saturday, so make sure you time your trip around this if you want to follow our route.

Take a morning ferry from Craignure over to Oban, and you'll have time to quickly explore the “Gateway to the Isles” before the ferry to your next island.

Explore the shops, try some more local seafood (or as is tradition for the boys - an ice cream in the rain!), or enjoy a coastal walk before boarding the 1630 sailing to Port Askaig on Islay.

This scenic route takes you past Kerrera and the Slate Islands to the Isle of Colonsay and onwards to Islay, but unfortunately you won't be able to disembark on Colonsay unless you add a few days to your trip and catch the next Islay ferry on Saturday. Alternatively you can travel from Colonsay back to Oban, or save Colonsay for your next island adventure!

Days 6 and 7 - Exploring Islay

Known as the "Queen of the Hebrides", Islay is renowned for its landscapes and rich cultural heritage. 

We often joke that the best thing about Islay is the view of Jura - but it’s the whisky that truly sets it apart. With nine working distilleries, its unique and diverse range of single malts are well worth checking out. The current distilleries are; Ardbeg, Ardnahoe, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Lagavulin, and Laphroaig.

It’s not all about the whisky though; check out the stunning white sandy beaches, visit the American monument on the Oa peninsula, pay a visit to the historical site of Finlaggan, home of the Lords of the Isles during the 13th to 15th centuries, or go bird watching at the RSPB reserve at Loch Gruinart.  If you’re after more fresh, local seafood try the Islay Oyster Shed or Orsay Seafood Shack at Portnahaven.

The Port Mor campsite just outside of Port Charlotte has lovely sea views and great facilities.  

For more things to do and accommodation options on Islay take a look at the great Islay Info website.

Days 8 and 9 - Discover Jura

You’ve saved the best for last with a trip to Jura (in our somewhat biased opinion). Jura is a just a short hop from Islay, on the regular Jura ferry across the Sound of Islay.

Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, the Isle of Jura has something for everyone. Its unspoiled beauty and welcoming community make it a memorable destination for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Here are a few of our favourite things to do on our beautiful island.

Jura's Wildlife

One of the most striking features of Jura is its population of red deer. With an estimated population of around 5,000 deer, Jura is home to one of the highest densities of red deer in the UK. 

Jura is also a sanctuary for other wildlife, including the elusive otter and a remarkable variety of bird species. The island is particularly known for its population of golden eagles, hen harriers and even sea eagles, which can be spotted soaring majestically over the cliffs and coastlines. 

Exploring the Coastline

Jura’s rugged coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches and hidden coves, which you are likely to have all to yourselves! Spend a day beachcombing, picnicing, or simply enjoying the views. 

Climb a Pap

Climb a Pap, or take a guided walk with Jura local, Grant, who offers guided walks at varying levels of difficulty as Jura Guided.

Visit one of Jura’s Distilleries

Jura is rightly famous for its whisky, and many visitors come to Jura especially to pay a visit to the Jura Whisky Distillery, but Jura is also home to Lussa Gin and Deer Island Rum.  Book yourself a tour and tasting of your favourite tipple, or all three!

Take a boat trip to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool

The Corryvreckan is the third largest whirlpool in the world, and the most exciting way to see it is from the water.  Book a trip with Jura Boat Tours and experience it for yourself.

For more information and accommodation on Jura take a look at the Isle of Jura website or download our Digital Guide.

Day 10: Return Journey

Ferry from Jura back to Islay, then from Islay to Kennacraig, then drive back to Glasgow via Inverary.

Practical Tips for Your Island Hopping Itinerary

Best Time to Visit: May–September for the best weather and wildlife (puffins on Staffa in summer, red deer rut on Jura in autumn).

Transport: A car is highly recommended, but buses and local tours are available.

Ferry Bookings: Reserve CalMac ferries well in advance, especially for Islay and Mull in peak season.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

This 10-day Hebridean island hopping itinerary combines history, whisky, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. From the sacred isle of Iona to the whisky capital of Islay and the remote wilderness of Jura, it’s the perfect balance of culture and adventure.

Looking for a longer trip? 

This itinerary can easily be extended; there’s plenty more to explore on each of these amazing islands, or you could add a day trip to the Isle of Ulva off the west coast of Mull, or spend a night in Oban and hike up to McCaig’s Tower or tour the Oban Distillery. You could also pay a visit to Colonsay on your way to Islay, but you’d need to add a few days as the ferry only calls in on a Wednesday and Saturday.  Or why not add a visit to Gigha too, the ferry departs just down the road from Kennacraig. 

Which island is on your must-see list, and why?