Full circle

■ Distance: 8½ miles/13.7km ■ Time: 4 hours ■ Grade: Moderate

From gnarly ridge traverses to relaxing strolls along silvery beaches, these island hikes lend themselves to the long days of Summer

Alastair MacDonald Jackson spent two years visiting as many of Scotland’s west coast islands as possible. Here he showcases some of the greatest wonders of the west – and offers practical advice on how to see them

Alfred, Lord Tennyson knew a decent place to hike when he saw one. It’s a sunny afternoon and I’m walking up the grassy chalk downland named in the Victorian poet’s honour, with the English Channel to

Your cruising destinations, near and far

WHY GO? Wonderful coves and beaches, pretty villages and sports such as surfing, cycling, hiking and golf are just some of the reasons to visit the largest of the Channel Islands. Only 14 miles from F