The only sea-to-summit-to-sauna experience on our list visits one of the few island Munros – Ben More – and the Island Sauna Shack, a seaside sauna with spectacular wildlife viewing.

Ben More means “big mountain,” and the one on the Isle of Mull is one of four Munros of the same name – but it’s notable because it’s the only island Munro not on Skye. The hike is a magical sea-to-summit experience that delivers views over the Inner Hebrides almost immediately, and if you’re lucky, theatrical ridgeline views from the top on a clear day.

Ben More + Island Sauna Shack: route description

Start/finish: Dhiseig (NM494359) | Map: Explorer 375 – Mull East | Distance: 10km / 6 miles | Ascent: 970m / 3,100ft | Duration: 5 – 6 hours | Difficulty: 3/5

1. NM494359: The start of the hike isn’t marked, but from the A8035, walk up the track towards the house at Dhiseig and continue SE on the footpath to the right.

2. NM499353: After crossing a gate through a fence, bear SE for a better path and follow the Abhainn Dhiseig burn on your right.

3. NM508345: After about 2km, look for a safe spot to cross the burn. Continue with the water on your left tumbling through a series of small waterfalls before leaving it as you head S.

4. NM516335: Zigzag your way up a steep scree slope following small cairns then enjoy an easy walk along a flatter section for the final 0.5km. Take care here in poor weather, as the drop off to the left is sheer.

5. NM526331: There’s a large shelter at the summit for lunch, then you can retrace your steps to the car, enjoying the views of Ulva in reverse.

Pouring water on the coals at Island Sauna Shack on Mull with views of Salen Bay through the windows

Pouring water on the coals at Island Sauna Shack on Mull with views of Salen Bay through the windows. Credit: Julia Clarke

THE WEE HEAT: Island Sauna Shack

A shared love of wild swimming led Donna and Ed Mather to open Island Sauna Shack in a converted horse box. Several times a week, this mobile sauna is stationed at sheltered Salen Bay, a 20-minute coastal drive away and a convenient stop on your way to the ferry port or Tobermory. This is the only seaside sauna on our list, and not only does that mean a saline dip, but you might see otters, seals, dolphins and white-tailed sea eagles from the bench. The Mathers also own the Island Foodie Shack, so you can follow it up with a piping hot wood-fired pizza.

For more summit-to-sauna Munro days, see Julia Clarke’s guide to the best in Scotland.