Western Isles Vacations
The Outer Hebrides/Western Isles are an archipelago situated off the West coast of Scotland. The islands of the Inner and Outer Hebrides have been inhabited since the Mesolithic times and throughout history the culture and language has been strongly influenced by various peoples and today the culture of the Hebrideans is a mix of Celtic, Norse, Scottish and English influences. In general most folk speak in the Gaelic language and though some speak English, it is often their 2nd language. In the past tours of the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles were only for those with plenty of money and those folk who had plenty of time. In modern times it is remarkably to reach the Western Isles/Outer Hebrides, you can travel by car and ferry or take a flight to a choice of destinations on the islands. Regrettably you can not get all of the way by rail though it is possible to travel coast and then travel by bus for the rest of the journey. Sometimes the only problem that can occur is sorting out where to stay especially if you are in need of Harris group accommodation which is often booked solid for the next twelve months.
One of the main reasons people visit the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is that the the culture and landscape of the Isles are stunningly unique. Along the west coast of the Isle of Harris you will discover some of the finest beaches of golden sand in all of Scotland, and many people believe the whole of Britain. Here and there you will find a standing stone on Harris however it is on the Isle of Lewis that you will find the most incredible circle of standing stones at Calanais not too far away from Stornoway the main town in the Outer Hebrides. The standing stones at Calanais is said to be second only to England’s Stonehenge.
Deciding which island to stay on, Lewis or Harris is often a difficult decision and more and more people are choosing to spend a few days on each. Lewis bed & breakfast is frequently available than Isle of Harris accommodation, so you should try to book as early as possible.
Stornoway bed and breakfast is is very easy to find but again to be certain book early. Nearly all accommodation in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is of a high standard and the hospitality is legendary and the local people friendly and helpful.
Besides the Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris there are several other inhabited islands that are very easy to visit. The most commonly visited are the Uists, Eriskay and Barra and there is a ferry which runs from Harris to North Uist at the South Harris village of Leverburgh.