Outer Hebrides - Holidays & Breaks (2024)

Outer Hebrides - Holidays & Breaks (1)

The Outer Hebrides is a group of islands that sit off the west coast of Scotland, each with its own unique way of life. The Hebridean islands offer wild Atlantic waves, diverse wildlife and vibrant Gaelic culture. Its powder white beaches are world-renowned, with some even featured on Condé Nast Traveller's recent list of Best Beaches in the World.

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What islands can I visit in the Outer Hebrides?

The Outer Hebrides are made up of over 70 islands, although only 15 are inhabited.

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Discover Lewis and Harris, with holiday ideas, accommodation, travel information, maps and things to see and do.

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Isle of Barra

Long famed for its beauty - boasting beaches, hills, machair and moor all in a small island.

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North Uist

North Uist is a paradise for wildlife and beach lovers and lies between Harris and Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.

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South Uist

South Uist is a relatively large island lying between Barra and Benbecula in the Outer Hebrides.

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Benbecula

The small island of Benbecula lies between North and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides.

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Berneray

Berneray is home to a wide range of wildlife including seals, stunning white sandy beaches and extraordinary seascapes.

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Eriskay

Eriskay is alive with the essence of the Outer Hebrides. In 1941 the S.S Politician sunk off its shore inspiring the story of Whisky Galore.

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Grimsay

This peaceful island in the Outer Hebrides is renowned for the quality of the seafood caught off its shores, particularly its lobsters.

Things to see and do in the Outer Hebrides

From stunning landscapes, spectacular coastlines and thrilling outdoor adventures to rare wildlife and ancient secrets, there are some great things to do in the Outer Hebrides.

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Wildlife

The Outer Hebrides offer plenty of experiences to get close to nature.

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Outdoor Activities

Get active around the islands, from cycling to sea kayaking.

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Historical attractions

Delve into the rich history of the islands.

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Wellness ideas

Experience wellness in the Outer Hebrides.

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Calanais Standing Stones

Located in the west coast of Lewis, the 5,000 year old Calanais Stones are famous all over the world.

Inspiration for Outer Hebrides Breaks

Explore accommodation ideas for your trip to the Outer Hebrides.

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Places to Stay

Choose hotels, self-catering or beachside campsites. Always book in advance during summer.

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Tours, routes and trails

Check out our ideas for curating your trip to the Outer Hebrides, including dramatic cycling routes, historical tours and boat trips.

Unique Experiences

Experience the Northern lights, learn more about Gaelic, or visit one the stunning island of St Kilda.

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Gaelic culture

Discover the Gaelic language in the Outer Hebrides.

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See the Northern lights

See this spectacular display in the Outer Hebrides, an elusive but unforgettable experience.

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St Kilda

St Kilda is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, part of an isolated archipelago of volcanic islands.

Map of the Outer Hebrides

Explore Outer Hebrides

Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.

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How to travel to and around the Outer Hebrides

    Getting to

    Ferry

    You can access the Outer Hebrides with a ferry from the mainland.Caledonian MacBrayne(CalMac) operates ferries from Oban, Mallaig, Uigand Ullapool, onScotland's west coast.

    Visit the CalMac website

    Travel to the Outer Hebrides by ferry

    There are numerous marinas in the Outer Hebrides, so why not travel by sail-boat?

    Discover more about sailing in the Outer Hebrides

    Flying

    Getting around

    Cycling

    Why not explore the islands on a cycling holiday? Follow theHebridean Way Cycling Routeand pedal over 10 islands in the archipelago, passing some incredible attractions and scenery along the way.

    Check out the Hebridean Way Cycling Route

    Bike hire in the Outer Hebrides

    Bus and coach

    Ferry

    Driving

    What's on in the Outer Hebrides

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    Events

    Discover a jam-packed programme of events in the Outer Hebrides. You'll find everything from arts and culture to natural wildlife.

    Explore all events

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    Food and drink in the Outer Hebrides

    Get a flavour of the islands with world-class seafood, Stornoway Black pudding and award-winning gin.

    Explore further

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    Explore the Outer Hebrides

    Find out more about the Outer Hebrides from the local community-interest group.

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    Explore some of the 700+ islands off Scotland's coast and experience their unique cultures and stunning landscapes.

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    7Days

    Car

    An island hopping holiday on the west coast

    Discover what it means to island hop across the western islands of Scotland.

    A tip from your local expert

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    Bùth Bharraigh is a thriving community hub and an amazing facility for visitors. Nestled in Castlebay, you can grab supplies and locally made crafts as well as tips from locals on what to see and do on Barra and beyond!

    Beverley

    Assistant iCentre Manager, Stornoway

    Find out more

    For more friendly advice, visit the

    Stornoway iCentre

    .

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    References

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