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But the islands are far from barren, with the hills, moors and beaches presenting a wide variety of habitats for plant life. Most plants are small and need searching out, like the delicate alpines or the 150 or so species of mosses and liverworts that occur on the rocky hillsides. But when they erupt in mass flowering the islands become spectacular, and the highlight of the year is when the machair – the ‘shell meadow’ behind the dunes – is carpeted with wild flowers during the summer months. Most of the plants are commonplace – ragwort, buttercup, clover, daisy, various vetches and trefoils and, in later months, rarer orchids – but collectively the effect is unforgettable. The best places to see this are on the west coasts of South Harris and the Uig area of West Lewis.

Water lilies are often found in remote lochs in summer

Wildlife

Although carrying a pair of binoculars round the neck can be uncomfortable and detract from the pleasure of a walk, they are an essential piece of kit in the Western Isles and will eventually add to the enjoyment of the day.