Alexander McCall Smith buys deserted islands as writing retreat

The chain of Scottish islands can only be reached by boat in good weather

The remote Hebridean islands, known as the Cairns of Coll, cost under £300,000. The largest, the Isle of Coll, includes a large detached house.

According to a report in The Telegraph, McCall Smith intends to use the islands as a writing retreat, and is determined to protect them as a nature reserve.

'They are very beautiful. I am going to protect them for what I hope will be forever,' he said.

For all the latest publishing news, subscribe to Writing Magazine or download our app

Register and sign up for our newsletter for late-breaking news, more competitions and exclusive content