Muck is an island of unimaginable tranquillity. With only one stretch of road rarely troubled with traffic, people have no option but to walk in this 4km long by 3km wide island. Small but perfectly formed, Muck is a peaceful paradise waiting to be discovered.

Although Eigg is the most populated of the Small Isles, don’t let this put you off – after all, 70 or so islanders still leave plenty of room. Community ownership has given the island an air of optimism – and the impressive Sgurr of Eigg, (393m) can almost be viewed as a symbol of vibrancy.

Canna is perhaps the most enchanting of the Small Isles. With one road – well – more a track really – this is the perfect place to explore, searching for relics of days gone by when this island was a strategic stronghold in the marine thoroughfare that ran through the Hebrides.

Rum is the largest and, with its great mountain peaks, is perhaps the most imposing of the Small Isles. This island is under the protection of Scottish Natural Heritage, and the main activity on the island is research into the island’s wildlife, making it a haven for those wanting a true escape to nature. Four very different islands. Four perfect escapes.