Staffa National Nature Reserve
Recommended by
Overview
Most people come to the Staffa NNR to marvel at the cathedral-like columns of the dark volcanic rock of Fingal’s Cave, a huge cavern formed by the constant battering of the Atlantic Ocean. But a rich mix of seabirds make the island their summer home, while the surrounding seas support seals, dolphins and the occasional giant hulk of a basking shark. Staffa is the nesting place for a range of seabirds including fulmars, shags and gulls. But the island is probably most famous for its puffins, which arrive in late April, and you can see rafts of them collecting at sea before they come ashore to nest. Summer sees the island turn pink with beautiful drifts of sea thrift. By now the puffin chicks have hatched and the parents take it in turns to feed them at their nest burrows at the northern end of the island.
Location
BUNESSAN
About the area
This is a county that’s all about awe-inspiring landscapes and unique island cultures. Ex-Beatle Paul McCartney put the area on the map when he wrote Mull of Kintyre, recorded in 1977 with the local pipe band backing his group.
Places to eat nearby View all
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
Seaview Bed & Breakfast
Seaview Bed and Breakfast is just a minute's walk from the ferry to Iona and overlooks the white sands of the beach at Fionnport. Off-road parking is available and inside the property t...
Tigh na Mara Guesthouse
Tigh na Mara is set in a stunning location on the edge of the village of Arinagour, just a short walk up the hill from the Coll ferry dock. Guests can choose from 7 tastefully appointed...
Coll Hotel
Coll Hotel is set in a remote and beautiful landscape that's well worth the journey. It sits close to the ferry and local amenities, looking out to Mull and the inner islands, and a bri...
Mingary Castle
Built within the 13th-century curtain walls of Mingary Castle, this restaurant with rooms is unique and individual, with high levels of quality, charm and character. Luxurious feature b...
Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa
As the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa overlooks Craignure Bay and is just a mile from Craignure Golf Club, it's perfectly situated to be your gateway to the Isle of Mull. Warm, classic roo...
Tigh An Truish
Tigh an Truish has been a hostelry for over 250 years and is just a few miles away from Oban. Expect picture postcard views of the bridge, friendly service and fantastic cooking that ma...
Oban Bay Hotel
The Oban Bay Hotel enjoys an enviable location sitting right on the esplanade looking onto Oban Bay and out towards the isles further afield. This wonderful hotel offers comfortable and...
Royal Hotel
Well situated in the heart of Oban, just minutes from the ferry terminal and with the shops on its doorstep, the Royal Hotel really is central. The comfortable and well-presented bedroo...
