Scotland has over 790 islands of varying sizes and populations, from Lewis and Harris (actually one island, despite the name) with its population of over 21,000 people, to tiny uninhabited rocks.
It can take alot of time and money to reach many of the more remote islands - with itineraries having to be carefully planned sometimes months in advance.
But there are plenty that are pretty easy to reach by hopping on a boat, spending a few hours exploring, and then heading back to the mainland.
If you are looking for an easy introduction to the Scottish islands, here are 10 to start with.
9. Seil
Looking at a map you'd be forgiven for thinking the island of Seil is part of the mainland, but it's actually an isle reachable by driving over the evocative-sounding Bridge Over The Atlantic - on the road south from Oban. It's one of the Slate Islands. Once there you can enjoy the gardens of An Cala, visit the Slate Islands Heritage Centre and have a round of golf on the picturesque Seil golf course. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Kerrera
It takes just a few minutes by boat to get to the Isle of Kerrera from Gallanach, a couple of miles south of Oban. from Oban, you can take a short ferry trip. The main ferry service is operated by CalMac from Gallanach, located about 2 miles south of Oban, to the south end of Kerrera. Gylen Castle is one one of Kerrera’s main attractions, with the ruin dating back to the 16th century. It makes for a great half-day trip from the mainland before you venture to other islands. | Canva/Getty Images