The Calmac car ferry from Oban is the most popular way to get to Barra, and for large groups and families it usually works out much cheaper than taking the plane.

You can get a coach or train to Oban, but if you take your own vehicle across on the ferry, it gives you a lot more freedom to move around the island once you're here.

Book tickets and download ferry timetables at Calmac.

If your trip has taken you down through the Outer Hebrides to South Uist, you can travel across the causeway from South Uist to the Island of Eriskay and from their board the little car ferry to Eoligarry, which is just along the road from Crofters.

It's a smaller affair than the Oban ferry, with space for just a few cars.

Also known as the 'Sound of Barra' ferry, this is also operated by Calmac.

The ferry from Oban also serves Lochboisdale on Barra's northern neighbour, South Uist, but if you're coming to Crofters Cottage from Uist, check out the Erikay first.

The flight from Glasgow Airport is a short, one-hour hop, with lovely views of the Scottish countryside and islands (weather-permitting) and of course a beach landing in Barra.

Space on the small aircraft is limited, so book well in advance if you can.

Head over to Loganair for bookings.