Take a walk: Ardmeanach peninsula, Mull

West along the Ardmeanach Peninsula of the Isle of Mull to the Fossil Tree

One of the wildest island walks in Britain: a narrow cliff path along the loneliest peninsula on the Isle of Mull, a vertiginous scramble down a ladder, and a rocky beach leading to a Fossil Tree crystallised into the cliffs during a volcanic explosion ten million years ago.

Wilderness rating: splendid solitude

Golden eagles soar over the cliffs, sea otters frolic in the shallows and there are stunning views out to Staffa.

Way to go: From The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) car park, follow a track for three-and-a-half miles to pass the NTS bothy. After another one-and-a-half miles, descend by ladder to the shore. The Fossil Tree is a third of a mile along the cliffs, beyond waterfalls. Return the same way.

Time and effort needed: It's 12 miles there and back, so give yourself a day. There are some strenuous sections.

Refuel at: The Fossil Tree to picnic. Pack your own - this walk is too wild for pubs.

Getting there: Take the A849 towards Kinloch, then the B8035. In four miles, turn left by the chapel (sign - ‘NTS Burg') for the car park (OS ref 477275).

Sleep at: Burg Bothy (www.nts.org.uk) - basic and magical.

OS Maps Landranger 48; Explorer 375. Click here for the Ordnance Survey Get a Map service.

For more info Craignure TIC (0870 720 0610, www.holidaymull.co.uk).

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