In many ways the Isle of Tiree is off the beaten tourist track being a four hour sail from Oban, thus ‘the island’s charms have remained a well kept secret’. Once a year, the island hosts the Tiree Music Festival, when the population trebles for a long weekend, other than that the only sounds you are likely to hear are the waves breaking on one of the many beaches, or the birds calling in the Machair, or once a day the little plane arriving from Glasgow. Will Wright of Tiree Fitness writes, “Tiree is a great place to be active – the air is fresh, the views are amazing, it’s an unspoilt landscape to just enjoy being out in.”

Tiree is rightly associated with surfing, whether it be board, sail or kite, but the reality is that you are spoilt for choice. If it is scenery you want, you just walk out your door. If wildlife is your thing, then look out for basking sharks and seals, otters and dolphins, listen to the lapwings or the elusive corncrake, take in the machair and its fauna or marvel at the wide expanse of sky – by day or night.. You can go exploring the history of the island and study the archaeology. You can go cycling, or fishing or play golf. There are numerous galleries, a glass works, a pottery and museum. If, like us, you enjoy walking, just walk and walk and walk … beach after beach. And don’t forget your camera!