Residents of Ulva have taken a decisive step to limit tourist visits by closing the island on Sundays. This decision follows a surge in tourist interest, partly attributed to the island’s appearance on the popular BBC show “Banjo and Ro’s Grand Island Hotel.” The show, which premiered earlier this year, showcases a Scottish island, a historic mansion, and two Australian hosts, captivating audiences with its charm.
Ulva, located just off Mull’s west coast, spans a modest three miles in width and six miles in length. The island, home to only 16 residents including Banjo Beale and Ro Christopher, lacks the infrastructure to accommodate large crowds. While the renowned Grand Island Hotel, once the home of Australia’s first Governor, remains closed for bookings, visitors can still enjoy culinary delights at The Boathouse, operated by Banjo and Ro since 2007. Additionally, a new hostel opened its doors to guests in May 2023.
Acknowledging the overwhelming interest in Ulva, the Ulva Ferry service, connecting Mull to Ulva, announced the closure of the island on Sundays to allow residents and businesses time to rejuvenate. The decision was prompted by the unforeseen influx of visitors, leading to logistical challenges. Visitors with existing reservations on Sundays during the summer months were advised to coordinate with their accommodation providers for alternative arrangements.
The escalating tourism on Ulva has also impacted Mull, with the Mull and Iona Community Trust facing unprecedented demand for parking at Ulva Ferry. The Trust urged visitors to utilize designated parking areas and avoid parking illegally on roadside verges to ensure safety and accessibility at Ulva Ferry. Despite these challenges, Ulva remains a pristine destination, offering hiking trails, historical ruins, and diverse wildlife, including white-tailed sea eagles and rare species like the Scotch burnet moth. The island’s picturesque south side provides breathtaking views of neighboring islands and opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
