A deserted Scottish island situated 100 miles from the mainland boasts breathtaking panoramas from Britain’s loftiest cliffs – and visitors can even spend the night camping there.

The St Kilda archipelago was inhabited for 2,000 years before 1930, when its final 36 inhabitants were evacuated and relocated to Scotland. Whilst a distinctive way of life vanished forever, remnants of history remain scattered across the four islands, especially on Hirta, the largest.

St Kilda, recently listed amongst Britain’s most haunted coastlines, earned UNESCO World Heritage status for its exceptional wildlife, dramatic sea cliffs and remote ecosystem, which supports approximately one million seabirds.

The National Trust of Scotland currently oversees these Atlantic islands, with visitor trips available in April and September – though adverse weather frequently results in cancellations.

Ruth Aisling, who operates a YouTube channel documenting her rediscovery of Scotland following 12 years overseas, previously journeyed to St Kilda, positioned 40 miles west of the Outer Hebrides.

Her expedition required a three-hour boat crossing from the Isle of Skye, with day trips priced at £280 per person.

Yet to camp overnight in this most isolated corner of the British Isles, travellers must cover the return voyage, bringing her total expenditure to £500.

She remarked: “Although this is quite pricey, St Kilda is a place I have always wanted to see and this will probably be the only time I will ever visit.”

Upon arrival, a National Trust representative briefed her on the permitted areas before she set off on her hike.

What immediately caught her attention was the deserted village in the distance and how the vistas of the stone structures alongside the encircling bay were “very beautiful”.

Sharing her early thoughts, she remarked: “I have been on the island for an hour, hour and a half already, and my first impression is that the island definitely feels lived on.

“I had an image before coming here that this was an abandoned island, there really wasn’t going to be much here, however, there’s quite a lot of activity.

“I think there’s around 30 or 40 people on the island tonight. They might not live here year-round but they do live here temporarily so it is a little bit different to what I expected based on my first impressions so far.”

Throughout her unforgettable treks, she was captivated by the “unbelievable” landscape, though she did issue a warning.

She explained: “If you’re someone who is afraid of heights I don’t recommend hiking up here. Even me who is not really scared of heights my legs are wobbling a little bit. I’m staying quite far back from the edge. It probably looks like I am quite close but I am probably about seven eight metres from the edge.”

St Kilda is home to some of Britain’s most dramatic cliff faces, including Conachair, which towers at 427 metres. Regrettably, upon reaching the summit, cloud cover had descended, and despite lingering for half an hour, Aisling was unable to witness what would have been an extraordinary panorama.

Her overnight stay in the tent proved somewhat disconcerting, having been disturbed by a large mouse attempting to infiltrate her shelter. She also noted the sheep were particularly vocal throughout the night.

The following day, she explored the opposite side of the island, and was utterly captivated by the spectacle before her.

She said: “This place is incredible. It looks like a picture frame of stones, and then the view out! This is 100% the best view of St Kilda in my opinion.”

Hirta island comprises a church, abandoned stone dwellings, warehouses and natural freshwater sources, alongside a contemporary museum. Toilet and shower amenities are available, though no commercial establishments or dining venues exist.

While previous inhabitants depended upon fishing, seabird meat and eggs formed a fundamental component of their sustenance, representing one of their primary food sources. The location continues to host the UK’s most substantial puffin colony, accommodating half of the nation’s puffin population.

Offering a glimpse into their existence, Martin Martin documented in 1697: “The inhabitants of St Kilda, are much happier than the generality of mankind, as being almost the only people in the world who feel the sweetness of true liberty, simplicity, mutual love and cordial friendship, free from solicitous cares, and anxious covetousness; and the consequences that attend them.”

Nevertheless, numerous factors contributed to its eventual desertion, including growing connections with the mainland during the 19th century which brought deadly illnesses to the island.

During its heyday, approximately 200 residents called it home, but gradually individuals began seeking better opportunities on the mainland, which resulted in insufficient workers to sustain the community, and during the 1920s, just prior to the final evacuation, agricultural failures resulted in fatalities from hunger.

Despite this tragic history, it continues to draw visitors from across the globe, with the Telegraph’s Robin McKelvie dubbing the archipelago the “real-life Jurassic Park” whilst also characterising the cliffs as “Tolkien-eque”.

One traveller shared their impressions on TripAdvisor last year, describing it as a “breathtakingly beautiful place”.

A fellow visitor penned: “Felt very privileged to visit this amazing place. It is beautiful in terms of scenery and wildlife and very poignant to see the places where people eked out a living for so long but who eventually had to ask for evacuation. Warm and informative welcome from the island’s warden.”

Someone else enthused: “Landing by RIB on St Kilda on a gloriously sunny day is a once in a lifetime experience. The history is fascinating, the scenery stunning and the wildlife, especially puffins abundant.”

With an area of 45,000 sq. km, this quiet little country is five times smaller than Great Britain. It has been repeatedly invaded and occupied despite declaring its neutrality but in 1991 it gained full independence and has been happily building its tourist industry ever since.

It is a world of magical old towns, majestic woodland wildlife like brown bears and Eurasian lynx, and rugged shores speckled with over 2,000 islands. 

But this gorgeous place, that was once annexed to the former Soviet Union, is no backwater. Highly developed with a high-income advanced economy, it has also been named as one of the least corrupt countries in the world and ranks very highly for education, press freedom,  excellent public services,  and the prevalence of technology companies.

It is famed for being a trailblazer in the digital world, as it was the first country to introduce online election voting.

Now following a recent survey in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, this little country was praised for its “polite respect, calm atmosphere, and welcoming natural beauty” and named the friendliest country in Europe.

Each year, the magazine invites its readers to “scout out the crème de la crème of European hospitality”, noting that this year has seen a vibrant mix of newcomers and familiar faces.

When it comes to friendly countries, there’s far from a shortage in  Europe. Lovely destinations across the continent are packed with even lovelier people, forming vibrant communities which come in all shapes and sizes. Some are rooted in family-oriented tradition, others value a free-spirited lifestyle, but all are keen to share their beloved culture with visitors.

The winning country consists of the mainland, two larger islands and over 2,300 other islands and islets on the east coast of the Baltic Sea. It has never made an appearance before on the list of friendliest countries but all of a sudden, in the latest reader survery, it shot to the number one spot.

Estonia was voted Europe’s friendliest country for 2025 in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, with Ireland, Portugal, Iceland, and Turkey also ranking highly.

Estonia scored 98.46. The magazine said: “Despite making its debut appearance on our list, Estonia shoots straight to the top to be crowned Europe’s friendliest country for 2025, as chosen by you.

“This Baltic country is often overshadowed by other European holiday powerhouses, but venture off the beaten track and uncover a world of magical old towns, majestic woodland wildlife like brown bears and Eurasian lynx, and rugged shores speckled with over 2,000 islands.

“It’s also famed for being a trailblazer in the digital world, as it was the first country to introduce online election voting, so whether you’re meeting Estonians in the flesh or through the screen, expect exemplary interactions of politeness and respect.”

Better still the beer is cheap! A pint of beer in Estonia, especially a local brew in a modest pub or outside tourist areas, can cost around 2.50 to 4 euros (£2.16 to £3.50)

Supermarket prices for a 0.5L bottle of beer are even cheaper (around €1 or 87p). Expect to pay slightly more for popular brands like Saku or or A. Le Coq in bars, but look for local deals to find the lowest prices. 

In second place for Europe’s friendliest country was Ireland which scored 96.84. The magazine said: “A small but mighty population filled with soulful musicians and pioneering writers, the Irish people warm the hearts of all they touch with their infectiously good craic.

“Wander into a traditional pub and within seconds find yourself striking up a conversation with jolly strangers proving these cosy boltholes are so mycg more than simply a place to drink.”

Portugal came in third place followed by Iceland, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Austria, Spain and Cyprus making up the top ten friendliest European countries.

Super cheap flights from the UK to the winning country Estonia’s stunning capital city Tallinn are another reason to visit.

Budget airlines Ryanair and Wizz Air both fly here and sometimes Jet2. Flights from London Stansted, London Luton and Liverpool are available with prices starting at £31.

Whether it’s the stunning lake views that captivate you or the historic buildings gracing its shores, this charming  town provides the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Nestled on the western banks of Lough Derg, a freshwater lake in the River Shannon, lies the tranquil town of Killaloe in County Clare, Ireland.

Its serene setting offers an oasis of calm and tranquillity, attracting many who enjoy swimming, water sports, boat trips, or simply a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge.

One visitor, left awestruck by the beauty of the lake, shared their experience on TripAdvisor: “I guarantee you will not be disappointed with your visit to Lough Derg, even if you just sit in the car at the viewpoint it will have been worth the drive. The views and the scenery are so spectacular it will take your breath away.”

For those eager to dive into aquatic adventures, Killaloe boasts the country’s largest inflatable water park, situated along the picturesque lake. This happens to be the top-rated attraction in the area, perfect for families seeking outdoor fun with a twist.

Regardless of the weather, families can wear the wetsuits and buoyancy aids and exhaust themselves for over 50 minutes of slipping and sliding into the beautiful lake. Many visitors, having participated in the activity, can’t resist singing its praises on TripAdvisor.

One satisfied customer wrote: “We brought our 9 and 7-year-olds, and they absolutely loved it. Great fun had by all. Will definitely be returning next summer.”

Another visitor shared: “Great fun for all ages! Everybody had a blast, and it was a really good way to have some good fun with the family. Would definitely go again.”

Beyond the entertainment on offer, the region boasts a rich historical heritage, with numerous fascinating stories told through its remarkable architecture.

This was once the residence of Brian Ború, Ireland’s final king, whose formidable fortress dominated the town that served as the nation’s capital millennia ago.

Visitors can explore the grounds of Brian Boru’s Fort, the former site of his palace, and discover more about his legacy at the purpose-built Brian Boru Heritage Centre.

Sharing this historic landscape is the magnificent St Flannan’s Cathedral, which traces its origins to the 12th century and continues to draw tourists to the region.

The cathedral blends Romanesque and Gothic design features with distinctive carvings and Ogham stones, whilst also containing the final resting place of Muircheartaigh, the last O’Brien High King.

The building has subsequently benefited from substantial funding for conservation work, which has helped preserve and protect its splendour and significance as a Church of Ireland monument.

Stretching over the river and linking Killaloe with Ballina in County Tipperary stands the Killaloe Bridge. This impressive 13-arch stone structure is thought to have been built around 1650, constructed using rubble limestone.

The structure remains protected but has undergone numerous modifications over the years, including an added memorial for four Irish Republican Army members who were tragically gunned down on the bridge in 1920.

Tourists will also notice a commemorative plaque marking the partial reconstruction of the bridge in the 1800s.