Staffa

Scotland's Island Coast

This little island appears to be from a different planet.

Staffa is designated as a National Nature Reserve, home to black guillemots, fulmars, puffins and the magical Fingal’s Cave.

Follow in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, J M W Turner, Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth to see the 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.

Escape the everyday and enjoy a puffin-spotting picnic on the island's top in summer.

TRAVELLERS TIP: Always book ferries and experiences in advance

Boat trips to Staffa & Fingal's Cave

Background image - Iona Seafood Birds Eye View

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.

Be inspired

Background image - MV Isle Of Mull Departs Oban Bay June 2012

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The busy town of Oban is known as ‘The Gateway to the Isles’ where you can visit the islands of Isle of Mull, Isle of Iona, Kerrera, Lismore and Coll & Tiree

See & Do | Fingal’s Cave | Isle of Staffa | Oban

The Isle of Staffa is known for rock columns and spectacular sea caves. The most famous is Fingal’s Cave, immortalised by Mendelssohn in his Hebrides Overture.