t A crisp winter view across the Wester Ross coast looking towards the Summer Isles

The Summer Isles

For solitude, magnificent sunsets and stupendous views, look no further than this cluster of 17 tiny islets peppered along the mouth of Loch Broom, just off the Coigach Peninsula in the northwest Highlands. These remote islands are far removed from the frenetic pace of modern life, and the largest island of the archepelago, Tanera Mòr, is accessed by boat from Old Dornie Harbour in Achiltibuie, 45 minutes from Ullapool. Bookings must be made in advance.

Torsa Island

If total seclusion is what you’re after, why not rent an entire island? Well, the only house on the island, to be more precise. Sheltered between the island of Luing and Degnish Point on the mainland, Torsa is only one mile long and half a mile wide. Accessible from Luing, a short crossing from Oban, Torsa House is the island’s only property. You’ll have freedom to roam, so long as you don’t mind sharing the space with sheep and Luing cattle.

Handa Island Wildlife Reserve

Handa Island has 100,000 inhabitants, but none are human. Here, puffins, kittiwakes, skuas and the largest colony of guillemots in Britain rule the roost. Accessible by boat from Tarbet, there is an easygoing 6-km (4-mile) circular route, and a 4-km (3-mile) cliff walk, from which you can spot dolphins, minke whales and basking sharks.

Go off-grid on the Isle of Muck

Home to more wildlife than people, the tiny island of Muck is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the daily grind. Accommodation options include a bunkhouse, holiday cottages, a catered lodge and a Mongolian-style yurt with views over the Cuillins of Skye, a landscape that (legend has it) inspired J R R Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings. Wake to the dulcet tones of waves lapping the island’s north shore and forget about those pesky emails.

Insider Tip

Sleep Under the Stars

Places to stay are in short supply in summer, and accommodation gets snapped up fast. Alternatively, take your own tent. Camping is allowed almost anywhere in Scotland, as long as you are respectful of the nearby community and leave the site as you found it. If you’re planning a wild camping trip, be sure to familiarize yourself with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code before you set off on your adventure.