Outer Hebrides Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Outer Hebrides
Journey into the ancient past, venture across wild landscapes and discover island cultures when you travel to this Scottish archipelago.

Embark on outdoor adventures, discover native wildlife and explore thousands of years of history in the Outer Hebrides. This island chain is also known as the Western Isles and sits off the west coast of Scotland. It enthralls with its rugged beauty, monuments, museums and ancient past.

More than 100 islands make up the archipelago although only a handful are inhabited. Each one has its own character and charm. Head to ​the western side of the island of Lewis to discover some of the island chain's history and heritage. Visit the Callanish Stones, a prehistoric formation that dates back more than 5,000 years. Learn about the Iron Age inhabitants of the island at Dun Carloway Broch, a well-preserved ancient fortification. Make your way over to the other side of Lewis to explore its capital, Stornoway.

From here travel south by road to the Isle of Harris, part of the same land mass as Lewis. Hike along signposted trails in the north and browse traditional Harris tweed clothing outlets in the south. Take a guided tour of the Isle of Harris Distillery, makers of gin and single malt whisky. Enjoy a "wee dram", a convivial glass to stir the spirits.

If you are looking for wildlife go on the Bird of Prey Trail. This self-guided route links 13 viewing locations covering the length of the archipelago from Lewis in the north to the Isle of Barra in the south. There are interpretation signs at each location and among the birds you may see are golden eagles, merlins and short-eared owls.

The Outer Hebrides is easy to get to by plane or ferry. There are no direct international flights, but planes depart from five U.K. airports including Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Alternatively, travel by sea from the Scottish mainland on the Western Isles ferry service. Get around to the many scenic and historical attractions by car or public transportation. Some of the islands are connected by causeways and bridges. Those that aren’t can be reached by inter-island ferries.

Caladh Inn
Caladh Inn
3 out of 5
11 James Street, Isle Lewis, Stornoway, Scotland
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$229 per night from 15 Nov to 16 Nov
AU$229
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Stornoway. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (254 reviews)
"Hotel was a convenient pick-up location for the tour I was taking and also for exploring the port and nearby streets. The room was clean and comfortable. The only negative was that the restaurant was noisy, even for dinner."

Reviewed on 25 Oct. 2024

Caladh Inn
The Royal Hotel
The Royal Hotel
3 out of 5
Cromwell Street, Stornoway, Scotland
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$356 per night from 15 Nov to 16 Nov
AU$356
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Stornoway. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (208 reviews)
"The best accommodation in Stornoway."

Reviewed on 29 Oct. 2024

The Royal Hotel
Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Stay at this cottage in Isle of North Uist. Popular attractions Traigh nam Faoghailean and Balranald RSPB Reserve are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (96 reviews)
Pleasant and comfortable stay
"Clean, cosy cottage. Well equipped and welcome box was super with local gin, shortbread, tablet & oatcakes. Dog got pre breakfast walks to either Hosta beach or the Kettle spout."

Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024

Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Isle of North Uist, Outer Hebrides
Stay at this cottage in Isle of North Uist. Popular attractions Traigh nam Faoghailean and Balranald RSPB Reserve are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (96 reviews)
Pleasant and comfortable stay
"Clean, cosy cottage. Well equipped and welcome box was super with local gin, shortbread, tablet & oatcakes. Dog got pre breakfast walks to either Hosta beach or the Kettle spout."

Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024

Cosy Hebridean Cottage overlooking the Atlantic on the west coast of North Uist
Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside
Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside
Isle of Benbecula
Stay at this cottage in Benbecula. Enjoy a garden, cable/satellite TV service, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Mol Mòr and Our Lady of the Isles ...
10/10 Exceptional! (41 reviews)
Perfect getaway
"Cosy cottage in a perfect location overlooking the loch. Beautiful, little piece of heaven"

Reviewed on 20 Jul. 2024

Welcome to Airidh an Dobhrain - our secluded cottage by the lochside
Riverview Cottage  Near Callanish Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
Riverview Cottage Near Callanish Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
Isle of Lewis
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Isle of Lewis. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Callanish Stone Circle and Carloway ...
10/10 Exceptional! (43 reviews)
"Very charming, cozy, spacious cottage with new kitchen and bathroom. Fantastic shower. The beds had electric warmers to preheat them before bedtime. The location is perfect for quickly accessing all the historic sites."

Reviewed on 6 Oct. 2024

Riverview Cottage Near Callanish Standing Stones, Isle of Lewis
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Cities near Outer Hebrides