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Image: Calanais Standing Stones
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The Outer Hebrides
The Outer Hebrides sit off the west coast of Scotland and each inter-connected island has its own unique way of life. The Hebridean islands offer powder-white beaches, wild Atlantic waves, diverse wildlife and vibrant Gaelic culture.
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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.

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

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

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

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

Benbecula
The small island of Benbecula lies between North and South Uist in the Outer Hebrides.
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.
Activities in the Outer Hebrides
Get active around the islands, from cycling to sea kayaking.
Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides
Choose from a variety of accommodation with hotels, self-catering and beachside campsites. Make sure to plan in advance during the peak season for the perfect relaxing island break!

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
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.
Map of the Outer Hebrides
Explore The Outer Hebrides
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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St Kilda
Unique experiences
Experience the Northern lights, learn more about our national language, or visit a UNESCO desination at the epic island of St Kilda.
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, Uig and Ullapool, on Scotland's west coast.
Travel to the Outer Hebrides by ferry
There are numerous marinas in the Outer Hebrides, so why not travel by boat?
Flying
Travelling to the Outer Hebrides is all part of really experiencing the islands - you can choose to fly to Stonorway or Benbecula with Loganair.
Getting around
Cycling
Why not explore the islands on a cycling holiday? Follow the Hebridean Way Cycling Route and pedal over 10 islands in the archipelago, passing some incredible attractions and scenery along the way.
Bus and coach
Local bus services connect major villages, and there are plenty of great organised tours and taxi services that you can take advantage of.
Ferry
Make saving on ferry journeys between islands and take advantage of HopScotch tickets issued by CalMac.
Driving
Driving is the most popular way for people exploring the Outer Hebrides.
What's new and events
Find the latest events taking place across the Outer Hebrides.
Fresh Scottish seafood
Food and drink in the Outer Hebrides
Get a flavour of the islands with world-class seafood, Stornoway Black pudding and award-winning gin.
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
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
Tolsta beach
Explore further
Why not take the opportunity to discover some of Scotland's other islands? Take a look at our island hopping suggestions or find out more about the Outer Hebrides.
Other things you might like
Getting around Scotland by ferry
Scotland's Airports & Flights Around The Country

Lewis and Harris

Scottish Islands & Island Hopping

Benbecula

South Uist

North Uist

Isle of Barra

Responsible tourism in the Outer Hebrides
Orkney
Argyll & The Isles
Shetland
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