Bothy
Dibidil
Dibidil sits on the south coast of Rum, beneath the dramatic Rum Cuillin ridge. Access requires a CalMac ferry from Mallaig to this wild, volcanic island. 6-place bothy, 10 km / 3.5 h walk-in; good, MBA-maintained.
Quick facts
- Walk-in
- 10 km· 3.5 hrs
- Sleeps
- 6
- Altitude
- 10m
- Condition
- Good condition
- Grid ref
- NM393928
- Maintained by
- Mountain Bothies Association
- Fireplace
- No
- Water
- Dibidil River runs immediately beside the bothy — excellent, reliable water year-round.
- Mobile signal
- No signal. The Isle of Rum has no mobile network; a satellite emergency device (PLB or inReach) is strongly recommended.
- Dogs
- Dogs on lead on approachLivestock on approach
Our take
Dibidil is for people who find the mainland too crowded. Rum is a volcanic island with a population of 40, accessed by a ferry that runs when the sea allows. The Cuillin ridge above the bothy is serious mountain terrain. The sense of isolation is total. This is not a casual bothy night — it is an expedition.
Getting there
Ferry from Mallaig to Kinloch on Rum (CalMac, 1 hour 25 minutes). From Kinloch, follow the coastal path south past Papadil to Dibidil. Rough, boggy terrain with river crossings. Allow 4–5 hours from the ferry. Plan around ferry times carefully.
Nearest parking: Kinloch Castle (ferry from Mallaig)
No approach GPX yet
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Stalking season / estate access
NatureScot National Nature Reserve. No blanket public access restrictions, but deer management activities occur year-round. Check the notice board in Kinloch village or call the Reserve Office (01687 462026) before venturing onto the hills.
What to expect inside
Compact MBA bothy with sleeping space for 6. No fireplace — carry a stove. Fresh water from the stream. The location beneath Askival (812m) and the Rum Cuillin is spectacularly wild.
Nearby hills
When to visit
CalMac ferry service runs year-round but winter crossings can be cancelled. The walk-in is best May–September. Rum has its own weather — expect rain. Midges on Rum in summer are legendary. The island has a tiny population and no shops — carry all supplies.
Wildfire risk — May to October
Dry conditions increase wildfire risk during summer. Never light fires in the open. Use the bothy fireplace only, and ensure it is fully out before you leave.
Current conditions
Condition unverified
We have not received a recent visitor report for this bothy. Check the MBA bothy register for current status before relying on this bothy as shelter.
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 05:20
- Sunset
- 21:43
- Civil dawn
- 04:28
- Civil dusk
- 22:35
NOAA Solar Calculator · 30 July 2026
Share your experience
Stayed at Dibidil? Help other walkers plan their visit.
Stock up at Mallaig
Nearest TripSCOT town for food, fuel, and accommodation if the bothy is busy.
Dibidil — common questions
- What's the approach to Dibidil like?
- The walk-in runs 10km from Kinloch Castle (ferry from Mallaig), roughly 3.5 hours at a steady pace. Ferry from Mallaig to Kinloch on Rum (CalMac, 1 hour 25 minutes).
- Does Dibidil have a fireplace?
- No fire here. Bring a stove and warm layers for the evening at Dibidil; without a fireplace the temperature drops quickly after dark.
- How many people does Dibidil sleep?
- Dibidil sleeps 6. No bookings — it's first-come-first-served and you should expect company. Carry a tent as backup for busy weekends.
- Is there water at Dibidil?
- Dibidil River runs immediately beside the bothy — excellent, reliable water year-round.
- When can I visit Dibidil?
- Best months: May, June, July, August, September. During the stalking season (August-October), contact the estate before visiting.
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