Tobermory, an old fishing station brightened by a crescent of colourful houses, is the main settlement on the Isle of Mull. This rugged and varied island is one of the most popular destinations in the Hebrides, and is rich in wildlife, home to species including white-tailed eagles, otters and whales.

The Isle of Coll is rocky and rugged in the north, while to the south a landscape of grassy dunes known as machair is surrounded by sandy beaches. The tranquility is disturbed only by the island’s abundant birdlife, and in particular by the rasping call of the corncrake.

Tiree is the westernmost of the Inner Hebrides, and enjoys some of the longest sunshine hours in the UK. The influence of the Gulf Stream also means the climate is milder than on the mainland, and the island is characterised by sweeping white sand beaches, pretty wildflowers and strong winds that keep the midges away.

The island of Colonsay is blessed with a varied landscape of birch woods, sandy beaches, rugged hills and grassy lowlands known as ‘machair’. Highlights include the dramatic sweep of Kiloran Bay and the magnificent gardens of Colonsay House, spread over some 30 acres.

Islay is renowned for its peaty, smoky whiskies, and the island is home to nine different distilleries, including the famous Laphroaig. Other highlights include the RSPB Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve and the ruins at Finlaggan, former seat of the Lords of the Isles.

The rugged and varied Isle of Mull is one of the most popular destinations in the Hebrides, and is rich in wildlife, home to white-tailed eagles, otters and whales. The main settlement is Tobermory, an old fishing station brightened by a crescent of colourful houses.