Choosing The Right Island Getaway
With just under 800 islands off the Scottish mainland it could be difficult to choose the island experience that's right for you. Although only 90 of those are inhabited you may still be struggling to pick the right trip for you, so we have put together a brief round-up to help you along.
Best for ...
For experienced hikers seeking adventure and an off-the-beaten path experience our trips on Skye taking in the best of the Skye Trail are a great choice. Alternatively, the Arran Coastal Path is another less-traveled route, and a proper journey that encircles the entire island.
- An island hopping experience
If you're looking for the flexibility of a drive & hike trip, and to squeeze in as much as you can, then an island hopping experience is the one for you. Check out our Outer Hebrides Island Hopscotch and Highlands & Islands Discovery trips.
Orkney is an island shrouded in legends, and peppered with enough archaeological sites and historical points of interest to keep any history-buff interested. Not only does the island abound with cultural highlights, but the back-drop of breathtaking clifftops and beaches combined with easy-going walking should keep everyone happy.
- An off-grid holiday ... or, as close as you can get to an in comfort off-grid experience as you can get in Scotland.
The Outer Hebrides, in their far-flung location off Scotland's north west, are the perfect place to step-back from your daily commitments, relax and adjust to the more leisurely pace of island life. Lose yourself in the wild island landscape, and stroll long stretches of white-sand beaches bordered by flower-strewn dunes.
All of the Scottish islands are blessed with great wildlife watching opportunities, so depending on your interests we recommend a little prior research to maximize your chances of a sighting. Most islands offer boat tours taking you out to sea in the hope of spotting whales, dolphins, basking sharks, and seals. Additionally, the islands are also a haven for nesting sea bird colonies so keep a look out, and bring your binoculars to make the most of any clifftop walks in case you spot any diving gannets, nesting puffins, or razorbills bobbing on the waves.
