Explore the unspoilt islands’ flourishing flora, wonderful wildlife and stunning bays on this bestselling tour

■ Distance: 7¾ miles/12.6km ■ Time: 4½-6 hours ■ Grade: Moderate

NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village

■ Distance: 5 miles/8km ■ Time: 2½ hours ...

Dreaming of escape on Ireland’s far-flung islands, David Bradford finds the reality of remoteness not quite as simple as it seems

ARGYLL