Shieldaig is one of the prettiest villages on Scotland's west coast , perched on the edge of Loch Torridon. The village is mostly comprised of picturesque whitewashed cottages, and there are some great walks to be enjoyed along the coast and up in the brooding Torridon Hills.

Loch Ewe is a sea loch off the coast of Wester Ross, and the shores were traditionally inhabited by Gaelic speakers who lived in crofting villages. The loch had an important role during the Second World War as the base for Arctic shipping convoys, and is also home to Scotland’s smallest whisky distillery.

The pretty fishing town of Ullapool is a popular gateway to both the Highlands and the Western Isles, bustling with visitors during the summer. There is an excellent museum with exhibits on crofting, fishing and emigration, while just offshore the uninhabited Summer Isles are home to seabirds, dolphins and porpoises.

The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations, thanks to a spectacular landscape of jagged peaks, misty moors and glassy lochs. The island’s biggest town is Portree, a pleasant little place with a colourful harbour.

Kyle of Lochalsh is a pleasant little town that sits at the mouth of Loch Alsh, close to the bridge that links the mainland with the Isle of Skye. Nearby attractions include the 13th century Eilean Donan castle, one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Scotland.

Pull up a seat and enjoy a pint at the most remote pub in mainland Britain, the Old Forge in Inverie. This sleepy little village is situated on the wild Knoydart Peninsula, and can only be reached by boat or by hiking 17 miles over some pretty challenging terrain.