Scotland has over 790 islands scattered around its rugged coast – although just 93 of those are inhabited.
Those who have explored these microcosms of Scottish life will tell you that each has its own unique character, landscape and history.
In short, you’ve not properly seen Scotland if you’ve yet to hop on a ferry and visited at least a few of these fascinating places – whether it’s a trip to tiny Iona or trekking into the mighty Cuillin mountains of Skye.
To whet your appetite, here are the 10 most populous islands in Scotland.
9. Great Cumbrae
It may only be 4 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide, but Great Cumbrae just squeezes into the top 10 most populous Scottish islands. Located in the Firth of Clyde and a popular destination for daytrippers from the mainland, 1,376 call it home. Most live in the seaside town of Millport. Photo: Canva/Getty Images