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Made up of over 200 islands, the Outer Hebrides stretch for 130 miles (208km), their rugged, dramatic landscapes acting as breaks against the mountainous Atlantic breakers. Set beneath breathtakingly expansive skies, these islands are blessed with quick rivers, mountains, moors and lochs. They are also dotted with prehistoric graves and brochs that add extra mystery to the already atmospheric landscape.
The islands are also famous for their ‘Machair’ – fertile strips of land rich in wildflowers, set next to the islands’ often stunning beaches. Here, rare and beautiful plants thrive on a soil enriched with calcium from the shell-sand blown in off the shore.
The Gaelic culture in the Western Isles is more prominent than in any other part of Scotland – with Gaelic still the language of choice amongst the islands’ strongly religious people. We’ve therefore included original names with the place descriptions below, as you’ll see them written on signposts throughout the islands.
Lewis
Stornoway
Harris
North Uist
Benbecula
South Uist
Barra
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