Western Isles (Outer Hebrides) holidays

The Western Isles are sometimes called the ‘Long Island’ – referring to the chain of Atlantic islands you can see on the map. Lewis is the northernmost, with Stornaway the largest town, Harris is just below. Then there are the Uists, and Barra below. The ‘long island’ is surrounded by many smaller islands, like the Barra Isles and the Shiant Islands.

You might add on other islands when you visit – such as the Inner Hebrides, closer to the Scottish coast, or the St Kilda archipelago, an uninhabited and remote island that is known for its birdlife. Other islands are inhabited, and the small communities here maintain a rich culture of traditions and crafts – including famous Harris tweed. Getting around means ferries, or bridges, or the services of a small ship which can be your lovely home for the week.

With much of their mountains, moors and grassland protected, the Western Isles are an important breeding grounds for birds, and the waters between them are a wildlife haven.

Warmed by the Gulf Stream, these latitudes are teeming with life. Not only do you have some of the UK’s largest and most important seabird colonies in the Western Islands – not least populations of puffins and gannets – but in fact over 300 bird species can be seen, from birds of prey like the white-tailed eagle, to seabirds and waders. In the water, you might clock otters and seals, but this is also one of the best places in the UK to see both whales and basking sharks. Look out for minke whales, orca, and various dolphins and porpoises. On land, there are iconic red deer, the UK’s largest land animal.

Islands make fantastic cruising grounds and there’s no better way to pootle between ports, lochs, or across the Minch (separating Lewis and Harris from the mainland) than by boat. Our small ship cruise holidays are small enough that they don’t overwhelm the small populations in the area, in some cases carrying just six passengers. Pottering about by boat means a spot of fishing; mackerel and crab are easy to come by – but you might also drop a lobster pot or two, just in case. If you want to go under sail, that’s easy too, and you’ll find sheltered seas between the landmasses, where you can enjoy smooth sailing.

Walking holidays are all about taking in the wildlife (bring your binoculars) and taking your time. There aren’t many big hills to conquer but there are a lot of coastal walks, as you can imagine – and you won’t believe the colour of the beaches here. Over a week you can visit seven islands or more, your legs fuelled by seafood, venison, and other beautiful local produce.

Cyclists will find flattish landscapes and quiet routes. You’ll be following single track roads with very few cars. For an even more relaxing experience, you can hire an e-bike if you’d prefer less pedalling, and more time to look around keeping an eye out for birds. Our holidays support local businesses on land – you’ll visit local distilleries and weavers along the way as a break from the saddle.

You can island-hop with a car in the Western Isles with ease, thanks to the fact that many of the islands are connected. Take the Uists, where you can use causeways to get around, and the fact that Lewis and Harris are one landmass. Using bridges, too, and car ferries when needed (such as to cross over to Skye), you can feel free to explore. On the way, stay in lovely locally-run bed & breakfasts – as much a mainstay of the Scottish landscape as the moorland and mountain. You’ll discover the white sand beaches and grasslands, plus the tweed-making traditions, old crofts, and the standing stones that point to centuries of heritage.