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ViewsHebridesFrom eTripTips Wiki The Hebrides have a reputation as one of the most beautiful parts of the British Isles. The landscape is rocky and mountainous, but also lush and verdant - due in no small part to the large amounts of rain which tend to fall. However, this should not put off the potential visitor, and many would say that the Hebrides are just not the same without at least some drizzle - just bring some rainclothes! When the sun does shine however, the resulting vistas are almost always stunning. The Outer Hebrides have some of the most spectacular beaches, not just in Europe but in the world. Much of the west side of the 130 mile long string of islands is one virtual long deserted and clean beach. Incredible beaches can be found on Barra, South Uist, North Uist, Berneray, Harris and Lewis. Many of the other Hebridean islands, such as Coll, Tiree, Islay and Mull also have quite breathtaking beaches. Due to the beaches, tides and weather, the Hebrides are rapidly becoming a major fixture on the sea sports map, especially for surfing.
[edit] Regions
[edit] Towns and villages
[edit] Get inThe Hebrides covers a very large area. Examination of timetables is often prudent. However, it is possible to travel around the Outer Hebrides without your own transport. The nearest large city on the mainland is Glasgow, some way to the South East. Most of the islands are reachable by ferries or other boats. Most of these ferries are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne [1], otherwise known as CalMac, who have a full set of timetables and additional information on their website. Ferries are relatively cheap for foot passengers, though very expensive for cars and other vehicles. The port of Oban on the mainland is a main transport hub, with ferry connections to Barra, South Uist, Mull, Coll, Tiree, Colonsay and other islands. Further north, the port of Mallaig has ferry connections to the small islands of Canna, Rum, Eigg and Muck, as well as Skye. It is also possible to drive onto Skye using the bridge at Kyle. The port of Uig on Skye has short ferry connections to the Outer Hebrides islands of North Uist and Harris. Ullapool, in the far northwest of Scotland, has a ferry connection to Stornoway on the island of Lewis (note: this does not currently operate on a Sunday). In the Outer Hebrides, there are airport in Stornoway in Lewis, Benbecula and Barra. These airports provide direct flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. The airport in Barra is one of the most spectacular in the world, with planes landing on a three-mile beach at low tide. The Outer Hebrides has a surprisingly good public transport service, with frequent and cheap buses across the islands. Many signs are bilingual, being in both English and Gaelic. Everyone speaks English, while most older residents speak Gaelic. [edit] Get aroundThe road networks are small but tolerable and link all major settlements on larger islands. Many of the most beautiful roads are single track with passing places. Hitchhiking is usually a good option and is safer than on the mainland. The best way to enjoy these islands is almost certainly on foot - the hiking opportunities are excellent, and the most beautiful and tranquil spots are often (unsurprisingly) located far from roads. The Isle of Skye is home to the Cuillin, the famous glacially cut mountain range. The lower reaches provide excellent walking terrain, while assailing the peaks is harder and depending on the mountain in question fit for very keen walkers up to skilled mountaineers with full climbing equipment. [edit] SeeThe Northern Lights are frequently visible from the Hebridean islands. Due to the low population, there is an absence of light pollution to affect this, and other nighttime views. [edit] SleepAccommodation is often most rewarding if you stay somewhat off the beaten track - most villages will have chalets or bed and breakfasts. These will probably be cheaper than those in the more tourist-oriented areas. Due to the steep cost of advertising, most accommodation is not listed in official tourist brochures or through the monolithic VisitScotland service. Instead, ask locally, search on the web, or look at more locally focused community websites. [edit] Cope The wetness also encourages midges, though these often last for just a few weeks of summer. Insect repellent or headnets (available widely) are useful, though if not walking on grassland or when dry underfoot this will be much less of a problem. Many people are unaffected by these wee beasties. In winter, the high latitude at the north of Scotland means it is often cold, even in Spring and Autumn. Snow may be expected to last late and start falling early, on the high ground - say, November to March. Some might say don't bother visiting in winter as it's too cold. Those same people will never witness Scotland at it's most beautiful, where the sun striking the snow-covered peaks is truly a sight to behold. [edit] Stay safePeople are very friendly in this part of Britain, and crime is to all intents and purposes non-existent in many rural parts.
Wikipedia:Hebrides |
