Isles

Make Skye your priority. There’s no train that goes onto the Isle, but you can go by train to Mallaig on the mainland, then by ferry to Skye. We had a rental car for a few days. If that’s not an option for you, I’d still suggest spending more time than just a daytrip.

Have you found any multi-day minibus tours?

I’m aware that Mull is one of Rick Steves’ special “back door” locations, but have not yet been there.

Hi, maddyaduke,

In addition to Skye, I'd also recommend Arran, Islay, and Mull. If you're going to Arran, you can take the train to Ardrossan, the ferry to Brodick, and then make use of the island's excellent public bus system.

If you're going to Mull, you can take the train to Oban, then ferry to Craignure, and public buses around the island.

If you're going to Islay, you can take the bus to Kennacraig, then the ferry to either Port Askaig or Port Ellen, and once again make use of the public buses. Or you could take the ferry from Oban, which operates twice a week, and which stops at Colonsay on its way to Port Askaig. From there, you could travel back to Kennacraig from Port Ellen.

If you're going to Skye, you can take the train to Kyle of Lochalsh, bus or taxi to Portree, then one of several island tours which operate from Somerled Square (or the public buses, which cover most of the island). There are also day tours from Inverness, which can easily be reached by train. You'd be passing through Inverness anyway, on your way to Kyle. Your other option would be to take the train to Mallaig, ferry to Armadale, and bus to Portree.

All of these islands are beautiful. Each has its own charms. Your choice will depend a lot on how much time you have to spend. Arran can be done on a day trip from Glasgow; the others require more than a day to do them justice.

If you plan to stay overnight on any of the islands, the best time to arrange accommodation was last year! However, there is still lots of availability out there.

Best wishes,

Mike (Auchterless)

Best wishes

If you are talking about this May, your choice may well be determined by where you can find accommodation. Skye is always very popular and many places book up early and many places will be fully booked. There is less accommodation on Mull and again that books up quickly.

I would look at one of the less popular islands - say Arran or even Great Cumbrae (ferry from Largs). Great Cumbrae isn't very big and lacks the mountains of the other islands, but is a relaxed and laid back place to stay. There is a shop in Millport that rents out cycles and tricycles to get round the island .