We decided to take the ferry to Craignure - hoping that the weather would improve. So, we parked our car in the M.V. Isle of Mull...

Another view across Oban harbour, this time from the passengers deck of the CalMac ferry, right before departure.

Leaving Oban behind, most passengers were on the outer deck, despite the grey, cloudy sky. But at least it wasn't raining! According to the weather report, things should be improving later that day.

The lighthouse at the southwest end of Lismore actually stands on the island Eilean Musdile, marking the southern entrance to the Sound of Mull.

After about 30 minutes we finally approached Craignure, passing the beautiful Duart Castle. This restored building is the headquarter of the MacLean clan and dates back into the 13th century.

The Castle was abandoned in 1751. About 160 years later (in 1910) it was purchased by Sir Fitzroy Maclean, 26th Chief of the clan who then set about the enormous task of restoring the building. Today, you can visit the castle (May-Sept 10:30 am to 6 pm) and its exhibition on the clans' history.

About 70% to 80% of the roads on the Isle of Mull are so-called "single lane roads". There are some specialities to this: First, you drive in the center of the road, being always prepared to halt at the next "passing place". Second, and I know this may sound silly, please remember to always stop on the left side. When using single lane roads it's easy to forget that you are in a left-driving country. Third, please let the cars behind you pass at the passing places. Just because you are admiring the surroundings, it does not mean that everybody has to drive along at 20 mph. Especially the locals often have a job to do and know the roads inside-out. Having said that, fourth, do not speed to much - there may always be sheep around the next corner (see photo), or another fast vehicle coming up.

One of the many beautiful views across Loch Scridain on the Isle of Mull.

At the end of the A849 you will find the village of Fionnphort. Here, the sheep definitely rule. However, the village has everything you would expect: a small supermarket, a bookshop, a tourist information center, a few B&Bs - and a ferry bringing you to the Isle of Iona.