The Hebrides
The Hebrides
The Hebrides, a vast archipelago off the west coast of mainland Scotland, is a captivating destination for any sightseer. Comprising the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the region is home to an array of islands that each possess their own distinct charm and attractions, from the whisky of Islay to the windswept grasslands of Lewis.
Geographically, the Hebrides lie in the North Atlantic Ocean where they’re divided into the Inner Hebrides, closer to the mainland, and the Outer Hebrides which lie further west. The Inner Hebrides include Skye (Scotland’s single largest island), Mull, Islay, and Jura, among others, while the Outer Hebrides consist of a chain of islands stretching over 130 miles that includes Lewis and Harris at its northernmost point, moving south to North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, and Barra.
The landscape of the Hebrides is a mesmerising blend of remote mountain peaks, rolling peatlands, flower-covered machair (a rare coastal grassland), and pristine white sand beaches that contrast dramatically with the azure waters of the Atlantic, especially in the Outer Hebrides which boasts beaches like Luskentyre – frequently voted one of the world’s most scenic places.
Many of the Hebrides’ towns and villages are steeped in history and tradition. Portree, the largest town on Skye, boasts a picturesque harbour that’s equally used by fishing and tour boats while Tobermory on Mull, with its colourful waterfront buildings, is famed for its boutique shops and fresh seafood.
Stornoway, by far the largest town in the entire Hebrides, offers a blend of Gaelic culture and history as well as a pretty harbour and attractions like Lews Castle. It’s the home of Stornoway black pudding – an award-winning savoury sausage that can be used in a variety of dishes.
When it comes to tourist attractions, the Hebrides doesn’t disappoint. On Skye, the Old Man of Storr, the Quiraing, and the Fairy Pools offer breathtaking hikes, while the historic Dunvegan Castle provides a glimpse into the island’s past.
On Islay, whisky enthusiasts can taste some of Scotland’s finest spirits on a number of tasting tours before heading to beautiful locations like the Oa peninsula, the 5-mile Strand beach, and the gobsmacking Loch Gruinart (visit when the tide’s out for the best views).
Meanwhile, the Outer Hebrides are home to the prehistoric Callanish Standing Stones on Lewis, mile after mile of golden beaches on South Uist, and unique places like Traigh Mhor on Barra, which is the world’s only beach airfield.
The Hebrides also boast a wealth of cultural attractions including traditional music festivals, crofting museums, and opportunities to learn about Gaelic language and culture. The islands are also renowned for their local produce with seafood, lamb, venison, and, of course, whisky, being highlights.
Subcategories
Search for Things to Do in Scotland
Looking for something specific? Try a search.
Find things to do in Scotland by clicking each region on this map.
