From wildlife to adventure: six reasons to visit the Scottish islands this autumn

04.12.2023 - 14:07 / theguardian.com

From wild seas and paradise beaches to selkie sightings and rutting stags, the Scottish islands are a must-visit destination this autumn. The midnight sun of summer has been replaced by mist and mellow fruitfulness, the holiday crowds have all gone home, and there’s nothing standing between you, the tranquillity of the scenery and a wee dram of whisky. Read on to discover what’s awaiting this autumn …

The wild open landscape of the Scottish islands is perfect for any number of adventures, from cycling on Cumbrae, known as the Island of a Thousand Bicycles, to the quiet roads of the Hebridean Way, and hill walking on Mull.

Hikers will be delighted with CowalFest 2023, a five-day family friendly walking festival that showcases the beautiful autumnal scenery and heritage of the spectacular island-like Cowal peninsula in Argyll & The Isles, from 12-16 October.

For water sport enthusiasts in the know, the Scottish islands have long been a destination of choice, with surfing increasingly popular. In October, Tiree plays host to the Tiree Wave Classic, where pros, masters, amateurs and kids can all compete to win on the waves. The Isle of Lewis, with its beautiful white sandy “Caribbean” beaches and great swell, is another must-visit destination for surfers.

As autumn rolls in, the wild seas of the Scottish islands take on dramatic appeal, best experienced by hiking along the coastline, where you can stop to wave-watch. Notable stretches include journeying west from Silwick to Westerwick in Shetland, which has some of the most stunning cliff scenery in the UK. Marwick Head in Orkney is equally appealing, while a hike to Carsaig arches on the Isle of Mull offers spectacular coastline views.

The Scottish islands spoil history fans with choice. In Orkney, discover 15 neolithic chambered tombs on the isle of Rousay, nicknamed the “Egypt of the north” for its trove of archaeological treasures. And on Arran, you can hear fascinating stories of past-rulers of the island at the castles of Brodick, Lochranza and Kildonan.

There’s evidence of more than 1,000 years of settlement at the fascinating Clickimin Broch in Shetland. Amateur archaeologists will have fun trying to piece together the history of the structures around the lough-side stone-built tower.

Scapa Flow, in Orkney, has been used as a harbour since Viking times, but in the 20th century some of the most significant naval action of the second world war began here. Now, accompanied by local expert guides, divers can visit many of the wrecks, including warships of the German High Seas Fleet. On the island of Hoy, visit the refurbished Scapa Flow Museum, where you can see naval artefacts up close.

Further west, head to the idyllic island of Colonsay and cross