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Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides (Credit: Airborne Lens)
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Outer Hebrides

The wonderfully scenic Outer Hebrides extend south from Lewis and Harris in the far north, down through the Uists to culminate in the twin delights of Vatersay and Barra, the latter with its much-loved castle and world-famous airstrip on the beach. Today, ferries and causeways connect all of the islands in this long chain including the six that make up the Uists alone: Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, North Uist and Berneray.

Throughout these islands, the scattered crofting townships are home to some of the most traditional Gaelic-speaking communities in the Highlands and Islands. The language can be heard here daily and is brought to life in music and dance at night-time ceilidhs throughout the year. Beyond this rich culture, the islands also boast some of the most unique scenery in Europe. From the hills of Harris, the moorlands of Lewis, the lochs of North Uist to the awesome fringe of Atlantic-facing, sandy beaches, this is a land that is nothing short of spectacular.

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Locations in Outer Hebrides

Stornoway Explore the vibrant capital of Lewis and Harris. Add Stornoway to an itinerary
Luskentyre Beach Be inspired by the beauty of one of the UK’s finest beaches. Add Luskentyre Beach to an itinerary
Uig Sands, Isle of Lewis. Large boulders strewn the sandy beach in the bottom half of the image. A light blue sky with large white clouds takes up the top 25% of the image
Isle of Lewis Discover life on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean on Lewis. Add Isle of Lewis to an itinerary
The Weaving Shed Discover an icon of cultural heritage and support local weavers. Add The Weaving Shed to an itinerary
Sandy white beach and blue waters with mountain range on the horizon.
Isle of Harris An island full of vibrant colour and culture. Add Isle of Harris to an itinerary
Café Kisimul Experience new taste sensations where Indian cuisine meets local Hebridean produce. Add Café Kisimul to an itinerary
Croft and Cuan Savour incredible local produce with a Scottish twist. Add Croft and Cuan to an itinerary
Tràigh Ghearadha Escape to nature and find inspiration in the natural world. Add Tràigh Ghearadha to an itinerary
Namara Seafood Café Explore the taste sensations of this locally adored Kallin seafood spot. Add Namara Seafood Café to an itinerary
A large grey stone cairn is stacked on top of a mountain, looking out towards the sea on a cloudy day.
Scalpay Explore an isle of outstanding natural and cultural heritage. Add Scalpay to an itinerary
Mingulay Sailing homeward to Mingulay. Add Mingulay to an itinerary
The Dunes Cabin Sample an array of tasty fresh seafood and home-baked goods beside the still waters of Hougharry Bay. Add The Dunes Cabin to an itinerary
Bhatasgeir Take time to explore and support the creative outputs of local artists. Add Bhatasgeir to an itinerary
Circle of standing stones in a grassy field.
Calanais Standing Stones Walk amongst giants of Scotland’s prehistory. Add Calanais Standing Stones to an itinerary
The Stepping Stone A well-established, family run restaurant in the heart of Balivanich. Add The Stepping Stone to an itinerary
The Butt of Lewis Explore the beauty of the most northerly point of Lewis and Harris. Add The Butt of Lewis to an itinerary
Line of electric light flows along narrow path to old brick house with pylon below a starry sky.
Uist The Uists: Gaelic jewels in an island chain. Add Uist to an itinerary
Charly Hamlyn Ceramics Discover high-quality ceramics and support local artists. Add Charly Hamlyn Ceramics to an itinerary
Isle of Gigha Discover beautiful spots on the community owned island of Gigha. Add Isle of Gigha to an itinerary

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Itineraries within Outer Hebrides

Getting Creative on Lewis and Harris

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Shrimply the Best

Savour the flavours of the Uists on this self-guided itinerary.

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