The islands of Mull and Iona have a rich geological heritage. The scenery and beauty of the area derives mainly from incredible volcanic activity about 60 million years ago, which produced a thick blanket of basalt lava flows that cover much of Mull and include the world-famous rocks of Staffa. Within the lava flows there are many interesting features, including basalt columns, a famous fossilised tree and in-filled gas bubbles. However, it is not just basalt that we find here, in many places the lava has been eroded away, exposing a diverse collection of rocks below; including Iona's marble and other metamorphic rocks, the Ross of Mull granite, Moine metamorphic rocks and sedimentary rocks. In one small geographical area you find some of the oldest and youngest rocks of Scotland, and some important ones from in between!

This trip will focus on the peninsula of the Ross of Mull and Iona, with a visit to Staffa if weather permits. It's not just rocks, and we’ll see plenty of birds, perhaps sea eagles and otters, and wild flowers. This will be an informal trip, at a gentle pace allowing time to enjoy the views and natural environment, and with time for you to do your own thing if you desire.

A £50 non-refundable deposit secures your place, and the remaining fee is due 4 weeks in advance. After that point if you cannot attend, any refund will be at my discretion and normally only available if someone else is able to take your place.

In the unlikely event of the holiday being cancelled, you will be informed immediately and receive a full refund.

On booking, you need to accept these terms & conditions along with ‘Geowalks Guided Walks - Acceptance of Risk’.