It's time to reconnect with your favourite island places.
Revisit old favourites or uncover new locations. Step on board with Caledonian MacBrayne.
The ultimate getaway
The Outer Hebrides are the ultimate getaway - our most far-flung destination, situated on the edge of the Atlantic. The islands here offer the most stunning beach walks you'll find in the country. On Lewis, take a stroll along Mangersta Beach - white sands are shouldered with beautiful dunes and clifftops. Enjoy Berneray's West Beach- voted the third best beach in the world in 2021's Lonely Planet Top 20 beaches in Europe, thanks to its turquoise seas and striking white sands. In fact, there are glorious, world class spots to be found all over the archipelago.
It's a prime location to be explored in a new way too, which you could do by taking on the Hebridean Way - either by foot, or two wheels. The route covers Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis - taking in ten islands, two causeways and six ferries. A unique way to experience this part of the world.
Cycle the isles
Scotland's islands are home to a few other incredible cycling itineraries, winding their way through spectacular scenery, each one offers one of the most memorable ways to enjoy your journey, soaking up a destination that's new to you, or one you've not been to for a while.
You could complete the Dervaig circular - taking in Mull's spellbinding landscapes and stunning sea views from the bike. The route covers the colourful town of Tobermory and the equally beautiful Calgary Bay - before finishing the day in Salen. It's the most rewarding 45 miles on two wheels.
The Five Ferries challenge is a fantastic way to take in multiple island trip - by bike, or indeed car. This exceptional 52-mile route will take you from Ayrshire and onto Arran, Kintyre, Cowal and Bute, and can be done from Scotland's central belt in one day, or at a slower pace to soak in the surroundings.
For something a little easier, catch the ferry from Largs to Cumbrae, the island of 1,000 bicycles - to complete a 10-mile cycle route around the island, passing the beautiful sea views as you pedal. It is the most perfect day trip for this time of year - and for some of us, it's a lovely dose of nostalgia.
Perhaps you've regularly passed the sign, for the place you've always been meaning to revisit - just across the water. On the Firth of Clyde, that could be Bute - 35 minutes from Wemyss Bay, though you'll feel you've travelled even further. It's famous for its beautiful bays, and you'll catch glorious views of Arran from Scalpsie Bay, or perhaps you'll relax on the beautiful expanse of Ettrick Bay, before enjoying the island's world-famous architecture at Mount Stuart.
Off the beaten track
The island of Lismore, off the coast of Oban is just ten miles long and with only 170 inhabitants, it's a fantastic but easy way to get away from it all. With the help of your local guide, you can really get off the beaten track too, and learn about the community there, while also enjoying spectacular views of the Great Glen, secluded bays and sights including an ancient castle, Iron Age Broch, and Medieval gravestones.
If you've not been yet, make time to visit Kerrera, just off the coast of Oban. Enjoy a walk to 16th Century Gylen Castle, a dramatic ruin, situated within the island's picturesque, lush green landscape. Stop by the Kerrera Tea Garden and Bunkhouse for a reward. Perfection.
With such memorable spots and experiences to enjoy, there's plenty of magic to uncover. Revisit your favourite memories of the islands and make new ones all over again when you step on board with Caledonian MacBrayne.
