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Discover a captivating chain of islands in the Atlantic Ocean that offer the perfect opportunity to switch off
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Image: Calanais Standing Stones
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The Outer Hebrides
Situated off the west coast of Scotland, the Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse chain of inter-connected islands, each with their own unique Hebridean way of life, powder-white beaches and wild Atlantic waves.
The Hebrides islands offer breathtaking scenery and unlimited adventures with an abundance of wildlife along with a vibrant Gaelic island culture.
Discover the islands, including holiday ideas to the Outer Hebrides, accommodation, best time to visit, how to get there, and more.
Find experiences
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Travel to and around the Outer Hebrides
Getting to
Ferry
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.
Where to stay in the Outer Hebrides
Choose from a variety of accommodation with hotels, self-catering and beachside campsites. Make sure and plan in advance during the peak season for the perfect relaxing island break!
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Help and advice
You can also get advice from our accredited iKnow partners, with excellent local expertise, travel advice and insider tips about must-see attractions and great accommodation in the local area.
Find our iKnow Partners in this areaFresh Scottish seafood
Where to eat in the Outer Hebrides
Get a flavour of the islands with world-class seafood, Stonorway Black pudding and award-winning gin.
Map of the Outer Hebrides
Explore The Outer Hebrides
Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.
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Sea Kayaking With Clearwater Paddling, Isle of Barra
Things to see and do in the Outer Hebrides
From stunning landscapes, spectacular coastlines and thrilling outdoors adventures to rare wildlife, ancient secrets and first class food, there are some great things to do in the Outer Hebrides.
St Kilda
Unique experiences
Experience the national language, see the Northern lights or visit a UNESCO desination at the dramatic island of St Kilda.

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Tours, routes and trails
Check out our ideas for curating your trip to the Outer Hebrides.
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.
What's new and events
Find the latest events taking place in the Outer Hebrides.
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

Lewis and Harris
Orkney
Shetland

Scottish Islands & Island Hopping

Benbecula

South Uist

North Uist

Isle of Barra
Argyll & The Isles

Responsible tourism in the Outer Hebrides
Scotland's Airports & Flights Around The Country
Getting around Scotland by ferry
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