TWIN ISLAND GETAWAYS

Get two holidays in one when you visit these enticing island pairs, where sun and sea meet great food and beautiful scenery

- HANNAH LEACH

 The Scottish getaway

STOP 1: ISLE OF SKYE

The largest of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides has medieval castles, pretty fishing villages and rugged landscapes galore. Its photogenic capital, Portree, makes an excellent base and has a colourful harbour with shops and pubs. Fuel up on the catch of the day at a restaurant, then take a dip in the cooling waterfalls of the magical Fairy Pools and hike to the dramatic Old Man of Storr.

STOP 2: ISLE OF LEWIS AND ISLE OF HARRIS

Head onwards to the Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris – in fact it’s just one island, despite the confusing name. You’ll imagine you are in the Caribbean with the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Luskentyre on the west coast, often named as one of the best beaches in the world. After you’ve arrived by ferry, make your way north to Lewis to explore the area’s fascinating history, including the 5,000-year-old Calanais Standing Stones.

The Maltese adventure