Staffa
Scotland's Island CoastThis little island appears to be from a different planet. Escape the everyday and enjoy a puffin-spotting picnic on the island's top in summer.
Staffa is designated as a National Nature Reserve, home to black guillemots, fulmars, puffins and the magical Fingal’s Cave. Hence, you can only visit Staffa via a guided tour.
Follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, J M W Turner, Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth to see famous hexagonal rock columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions.
Listen to the astonishing acoustics of Fingal’s Cave, which inspired Mendelssohn to compose his Hebrides Overture.
Good to know!
Plan ahead to make the most of your visit.- Style: A much-loved and unusual uninhabited island reached by boat only. Mostly rugged, no formal paths. Expect uneven surfaces, rocks and it can be slippery underfoot.
- When to book: This is one of the most popular trips, so book well in advance and be aware of weather cancellations.
- What to bring: Take walking boots with a good grip, a wet-weather coat, snacks, water, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera for the most stunning sights.
- Ferries: There are no ferries to Staffa; prebook a boat trip offered by many operators in Oban. See here for operators.
- Parking: Leave the car in Oban or on Mull.
- Facilities on the island: There are no facilities on Staffa. Note that many trips will be 2-3 hours long.
- Wildlife: Staffa is famous for its puffins. The best time of year to see them is late April to early August. Watch out for seals, dolphins, minke whales and seabirds.
Boat trips to Staffa & Fingal's Cave
How to get to Staffa
Joining a guided tour
The best way to visit Staffa and experience Fingal's Cave is by joining a guided boat tour. There are many operators, departing from Oban and the surrounding isles.
Phone one of the following local tourist offices for details
- Craignure, Tel:01680 812377
- Tobermory, Tel:01688 302182
- Oban, Tel:01631 563122.
Discover more inspiration on our blog
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How to visit Fingal's Cave | Isle of Staffa | Wild About Argyll
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ISLE OF MULL
Mull has it all: towering peaks, ancient castles, sparkling sands and rich cultural life. It also has Tobermory, easily the most attractive fishing port on the west coast of Scotland.
IONA
This tiny island is famed for its serenity, tranquillity and beauty. The unique history of Saint Columba and Iona Abbey makes Iona a place of pilgrimage.
TRESHNISH ISLES
Lunga is the largest of this evocative string of islands, easily accessible by regular boat trips, allowing you to experience its rare marine bird life up close during the nesting season, along with other fascinating flora and fauna.
ULVA
This community-owned island is an idyllic escape from modern life where the Boathouse offers delicious home cooking. Ulva is a haven for wildlife and a peaceful walker's paradise with impressive archaeological and geological features.
Staffa on YouTube
Immerse yourself in all things Staffa by watching our dedicated YouTube playlist for food and drink, activities and so much more!
