Roger Redfern describes the timeless quality of the Western Isles of Scotland. Although geographically close together, each island has its own distinctive character. Take, for instance, the cultivated fields and mild air of Tiree, the bleak profiles of Coll and South Uist, or the jagged mountain skylines of Rhum and the Cuillins of Skye. Today, you can visit several of the islands by regular short flights from Glasgow, you can drive across the Skye Bridge, or you can savour the sea views and feeling of remoteness by taking the ferry - though not, now, quite the risky affair it was in the 30s when, 'by the help of God', the Hebridean boatman would guide you to your destination after several uncomfortable hours at sea! Whatever your method of travel, be warned that your visit will probably be the first of many, such is the very special charm of these islands and their people. As well as a general description of the island in question, each chapter includes suggestions for walking routes which take full advantage of the scenery on offer. Sketch maps and photographs accompany the text.
INTRODUCTION Travel in the Hebrides Hebridean Views Setting Foot on Arran Islay Jura Colonsay and Oronsay Exploring Mull's Mountains and Remarkable Coastline Coll Tiree Some Sort of Damp Shelter- Hebridean Caves with Human Associations The Small Isles- Muck The Small Isles- Eigg The Small Isles- Rhum The Small Isles- Canna Rambles in Skye- Soay Distant Lights and Remote Reefs Barra Benbecula and the Uists Harris Hills St. Kilda- the Edge of Europe Far to the Western Sea Appendixes Useful Addresses Further Reading
Roger Redfern is a well-known muntaineer and photo-journalist whose articles appear regularly in publications including High, The Great Outdoors, Peak District magazine, Peakland Walker and The Guardian. A founder tutor of the former Mountaineering Association, he has climbed all over Britain and the Alps, and in Africa and the north-eastern United States. A former editor of the mountaineering magazine Mountain Craft (later Mountain) he has written some 30 other books and guides.