Magical Isles

IF there’s one thing I love almost as much as climbing mountains, it’s exploring Scotland’s islands. I try to visit at least one island that’s new to me each year, and so far 2018’s been a bumper year – I’ve managed to get to Holy Isle, Inchcolm and Lunga.

All were fascinating – Holy Isle, in Lamlash Bay off Arran, for its Buddhist Centre for World Peace and Health; Inchcolm, in the Firth of Forth, for its medieval and 20th century wartime ruins; and Lunga, one of the Treshnish isles, for its remarkably abundant wildlife – I’ve never seen so many puffins!

Pick of the island bunch for me this year, however, has to be Staffa, with its incredible Fingal’s Cave. It’s fair to say it’s been pretty much a lifelong ambition of mine to visit this marvellous corner of Scotland – and it most certainly did not disappoint.

Staffa is situated just off the west coast of Mull. We approached from the north – from that angle the island, owned by the National Trust for Scotland, appears very low-lying and the cave and basalt columns are hidden initially. There are no hints of the wonders that await.

We visited on a very still, hot and sunny day – the sea was flat calm, like a mill pond, adding to the atmosphere and anticipation.

Once ashore, we clambered along the rocks and hexagonal columns that form a platform and lead to the cave. It’s enormous – some 20m (66ft) high and about 70m (230m) deep.

The acoustics have to be experienced to be believed – it’s no wonder Mendelssohn was inspired to produce his Hebrides Overture following his visit here. It’s a true wonder of the natural world.

Islands form a big part of this issue of your favourite magazine, with its “Focus On” Orkney.

Starting on page 28, you’ll find nine pages of super content, written by Tom Mackinnon, on the isles’ rich history and archaeology, vibrant culture and world-class food and drink produce.

It’s a place like no other in Scotland – and if you haven’t been there yet, what are you waiting for?

@Scotsmaged