The waterfront town of Oban, situated on Scotland’s west coast, is the main gateway to the Hebridean islands, and it’s a busy place in summer. We recommend sampling the excellent seafood while enjoying the views across to the islands of Mull and Kerrera.

The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations, thanks to a spectacular landscape of jagged peaks, misty moors and glassy lochs. The island’s biggest town is Portree, a pleasant little place with a colourful harbour.

Shieldaig is one of the prettiest villages on Scotland's west coast , perched on the edge of Loch Torridon. The village is mostly comprised of picturesque whitewashed cottages, and there are some great walks to be enjoyed along the coast and up in the brooding Torridon Hills.

Situated on the shore of Loch Gairloch in picturesque Wester Ross, the scattered settlements known collectively as Gairloch serve as a popular base for whale and dolphin watching trips, and the surrounding area is home to some beautiful sandy beaches.

The pretty seaside village of Plockton enjoys a lovely location overlooking Loch Carron, close to Kyle of Lochalsh and the Isle of Skye. Originally a crofting hamlet, and later a fishing port, it’s now a popular tourist destination with some great pubs and seafood restaurants. A boat trip out to see the local seal population is a popular excursion.

Kyle of Lochalsh is a pleasant little town that sits at the mouth of Loch Alsh, close to the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Nearby attractions include the 13th century Eilean Donan castle, one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Scotland.

Armadale sits near the southern tip of the Sleat Peninsula on the Isle of Skye, linked by ferry to Mallaig on the mainland. Next to the ruins of Armadale Castle is a visitor’s centre dedicated to the history of Clan Donald, one of the largest clans in Scotland, and the castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Pull up a seat and enjoy a pint at the most remote pub in mainland Britain, the Old Forge in Inverie. This sleepy little village is situated on the wild Knoydart Peninsula, and can only be reached by boat or by hiking 17 miles over some pretty challenging terrain.

The village of Ballachulish is rather unusual in that it is actually two villages, situated either side of Loch Leven. The main draw here is the spectacular Highland scenery of Glen Coe, which was used as a filming location for ‘Skyfall’ and several of the Harry Potter films.