Inner Hebrides, Scotland

Base yourself in Oban or the Isle of Mull to explore the Inner Hebrides. Caledonian MacBrayne operates frequent ferry services to the islands which are known for their wildlife and turquoise waters. In the summer season (Apr-Sept) Caledonian MacBrayne has partnered with marine conservation charity ORCA to offer an Ocean Conservationist Experience or ORCA Mini Cruise on the ferry in search of the sea life that lives in these waters.

Tobermory, on the Isle of Mull, is a picturesque village with colourful houses lining the waterfront, a whisky distillery and excellent seafood restaurants. From there it’s easy to discover the island’s stunning coastline including the beautiful Calgary Bay. Iona Abbey is well worth a trip, being one of Scotland’s most sacred sites, and the burial place of ancient Scottish Kings, including MacBeth.

The island of Coll is famous for its dark skies, being one of the best places in the UK to see the night sky without light pollution. It has a RSPB reserve on the west coast and is one of the best places to see basking sharks. Lismore has 300 species of wildflower and 130 species of bird and the wildlife in Ardnamurchan includes seals, dolphins, whales, otters, golden and white-tailed eagles, red deer, pine marten and wildcats so keep an eye out for them as you walk around or from the ferry.