Touring The Scottish Hebrides Isles
The Western Isles are a group of more than four hundred islands located off the north west coast of Scotland. The isles of the Hebrides have been inhabited since the Mesolithic period and through history the culture and way of life has been greatly influenced by various peoples and today the culture of the Hebrides is a blend of Celtic, Norse, English and Scottish influences. The majority of people speak in the Gaelic language and although many speak English, it is most likely their 2nd language. Not too far in the past tours of the Hebrides were only for folk with plenty of money and those folk who had plenty of time. Today it is remarkably to travel to the Hebrides, it is possible to travel by car and ferry or fly to various destinations on the islands. Regrettably you can not get all of the way by rail but you can catch a train to the coast and then catch a bus for the remainder of the journey. Often the only problem that can happen is making a reservation especially if you are searching for Harris group accommodation which is frequently booked up a year in advance.
One of the most common reasons for visiting the Western Isles/Outer Hebrides is that the the culture and landscape of the islands are interestingly unique. Dotted along the west coast of the Isle of Harris there are some of the most incredibly beautiful beaches in all of Scotland, and it could be said the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Every once in a while you will discover a standing stone on Harris however it is on the adjoining Isle of Lewis that you will discover the most awe inspiring collection of standing stones at Callanish not too far from the town of Stornoway the main town in the Western Isles. The Calanais stone circle is said to be second to only Stonehenge in England.
Deciding whether to stay on the Isle of Lewis or the Isle of Harris is often difficult and increasing numbers of folk are choosing to spend a little time on each. Lewis bed & breakfast is commonly easier to find than Isle of Harris accommodation, so it is best to book well in advance.
Stornoway bed and breakfast is is not too much of a problem to find but to be certain ensure you book in advance. Virtually all accommodation in the Outer Hebrides is of a very high standard and the hospitality is unbeatable and the local people helpful and friendly.
Besides the Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris there are a few other islands that are very easy to visit. The most popular are North and South Uist, Barra and Benbecula and there is a ferry which runs from North Uist to Harris at the small South Harris village of Leverburgh.
