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Mull and
the islands
Ulva,
Inch Kenneth, Staffa and the
Treshnish
Isles are gems that adorn Mull's crown. Just as emeralds have
different crystal shapes so each green isle is unique. Ulva sits
close to Mull and its tiered lava flows resemble a giant wedding
cake. Verdant Inch Kenneth has arable land, once important for
cereals. Further out to sea and slightly apart from neighbouring
Treshnish Isles, Staffa is a thick wedge of columnar basalt. The
Treshnish chain consists of Bac Mor - the Dutchman's Hat that
features a sea-cut platform, as does companion isle Bac Beag.
Lunga's lava steps resemble a huge battleship, whilst Fladda is a
proverbial billiard table. Rocky islets link the chain ending with
the castle-like crags of Carn na Burgh Mhor and Carn na Burgh
Bheag. Each island is a vestige of lava flows that spread from
Mull's fissure volcanoes 60 million years ago. Once inhabited by
man the island's population now consists of thousands of breeding
birds, and Atlantic Grey and occasional Common seals that come
ashore to pup. The islands and surrounding seas are a wildlife
reserve no nature lover should miss. Set aside a day, take camera,
camcorder, binoculars, notebook and pencil, packed lunch, boots
and suitable clothing, and join one of the boat trips which leave
from Ulva Ferry, Fionnphort or Iona.
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