Aros Mains · near Salen, Isle of Mull
A ruined castle above the estuary. A Georgian house among the trees. Old stone steadings with a new purpose. Together, they give Aros Mains its character — a quiet setting for a self-catering holiday on the Isle of Mull.
Come for days by the water, walks through woodland and the freedom to explore at your own pace. Our two cottages and apartment offer different ways to stay in this historic corner of the island.
From medieval castle to Georgian house
The ruins beside Aros Mains date from the thirteenth century: a hall-house and enclosed courtyard on a rocky promontory above the estuary.
Associated first with the MacDougalls, the castle passed to the MacDonald Lords of the Isles, then to the MacLeans and later the Campbells. Today it is a scheduled monument, recognised for its national importance.
The Georgian house belongs to a later chapter. Built in the 1770s or 1780s by the Duke of Argyll for his chamberlain, James Maxwell, it stands around 100 metres from the castle ruins.
Today, guests can stay in the upper-floor Aros Mains Apartment, with the history of the house forming part of their island stay.
Explore the history in Historic Environment Scotland’s castle record and Martin Coventry’s account of Aros.
Evening light through the ruins of Aros Castle.
From estate steadings to holiday cottages
The traditional stone steadings beside Aros Mains House are now home to Castle Cottage and Dairy Cottage. Their stonework reflects the estate’s agricultural past, while the restored interiors provide comfortable self-catering accommodation.
The cottages and apartment each have their own layout and character. All three share a peaceful setting close to the Aros estuary, shoreline and woodland — somewhere to settle in, unpack and make yourself at home.
Aros Mains House and the cottages in their island setting.
The stone steadings
A cottage stay close to the castle and shoreline, with dogs welcome by prior arrangement.
Discover Castle CottageThe stone steadings
Another way to enjoy the character of the estate’s former steadings. Dogs are welcome by prior arrangement.
Discover Dairy CottageThe Georgian house
An upper-floor apartment within the historic house, offering a pet-free place to stay.
Explore the apartmentThe island on your doorstep
Aros Mains is two miles north of Salen, well placed for exploring both north and south Mull. Head north for Tobermory, or plan a day towards the Ross of Mull and the ferry to Iona. There is plenty to discover without filling every day with a long drive.
Begin with a walk towards the estuary, pause by the shore and watch the light change across the water. Bring binoculars for quiet moments of wildlife watching, or a camera to record your own view of Mull.
Choose from our Walks on Mull guide, browse ideas for a day out, or plan a longer visit with A Week on Mull. Leave room for a favourite place you want to return to.
Make yourself at home
A holiday here can be as much about the little outings as the big adventures: a wander by the water, a picnic, or an unhurried evening back at your cottage.
The rocky shoreline, grasses and trees around Aros Mains. Photograph by Richard Kellett.
Our three properties have different layouts and sleeping arrangements. Compare the photographs and details to choose the one that suits your family or travelling companions.
One or two dogs are welcome in Castle Cottage and Dairy Cottage by prior arrangement. Aros Mains Apartment remains pet-free. Read our dog-friendly stays guide for more about bringing your dog to Mull.
Your own chapter on Mull
Choose a cottage or the apartment, find dates that suit you and start planning your island days. For a feel for time spent here, read our guest stories.
Explore our properties & check availability