Once home to the Vikings, Norse invaders occupied the island of Eriskay for 400 years, leaving behind a heritage of Norse names – Eirisgeidh is actually derived from the Norse meaning Eric’s Isle. One of the smallest islands in the Western Isles, Eriskay is two and a half miles long and one and a half miles wide. Connection to South Uist by a stone causeway signalled an end to the dependence on tides for the islanders. Stunning white beaches, clear blue-green seas and a sense of history permeate the island – this was the first landing point of Bonnie Prince Charlie as he travelled from France to begin the Jacobite uprising. If you are looking for somewhere to go where you can simply remember who you once were, visit the peaceful island of Eriskay.

Small but perfectly formed, Barra is one of the smallest and most remote of the main islands, yet is often classed as one of the most beautiful, with an abundance of wild flowers permeating the island. Freshwater lochs, vertical cliffs, machair lands and wide, empty tidal beaches provide the space and peace to collect your thoughts – but watch out for airplanes on Traigh Mhòr where landing and take off times are adjusted for the tidal ebb and flow! When tidal mists surround Kismuil Castle, the ancestral home of the Chiefs of the Clan MacNeil appears to be floating, eerily standing guard over Castlebay harbour. For those interested in photography the quality of light in Barra has to be experienced to be believed. Barra can take your breath away with its colour, peace and beauty.