The Hebridean Baker kicked off a new podcast series today, in a move that looks set to give tourism in the Scottish Highlands and Islands a boost. 

Titled Scottish Island Adventures, the travel podcast will join the Baker (real name Coinneach MacLeod) as he uncovers ‘Scotland in miniature’ with special guests including BBC host Janice Forsyth, River City star Tony Kearney, Gaelic-language television presenter Cathy MacDonald, critically acclaimed Scottish singer Kathleen MacInnes, veteran host Kirsty Wark and more. 

The series was made by Scottish ferry company CalMac and produced by audio production company The Big Light Network, whose mission is to connect an international community of listeners with Scottish history and culture. Across ten episodes, the series will visit the islands of South Uist, Skye, Mull, Lewis, Islay, Jura, Harris, Bute, Barra, Vatersay, Eriskay and Arran, as well as Stornoway, the capital city of Lewis and Harris. Each episode highlights the many pull factors of the islands for tourists and locals alike, from Islay and Jura’s world-famous distilleries to Skye’s natural wonders and everything in between, exploring the rich history and traditions of each idyllic spot.

MacLeod said of the podcast, ‘Having been born and raised on the Isle of Lewis, the most northerly of the Outer Hebrides, I am thrilled to set sail on this exciting podcast journey, exploring the rich tapestry of stories that weave through Scotland's west coast islands. 

'Scottish Island Adventures is more than a podcast. It's an invitation to join me on a captivating voyage, where we'll uncover the island’s unique stories, their charm, their people and savour the flavours of our dishes. Join me as we set sail on a virtual voyage that will inspire visitors, both old and new, to travel over the seas to explore the heart and soul of each island, one captivating episode at a time.’

Scottish Island Adventures is available in full on all major podcast platforms now.