The Outer Hebrides are a fascinating group of over 200 islands which can be found off the west coast of Scotland. Gaelic is the native language of the area and the main inhabited islands are those called the Isle of Lewis, Isle of Harris, North and South Uist, Benbecula and Barra plus there are a number of smaller inhabited islands such as the Isle of Scalpay off Harris. In recent years there has been a continued growth in the interest in the Hebrides and tourism is now a major element of the local economy.
The Outer Hebrides are really on the periphery of Europe as they are really rather remote set further out than the Isle of Skye, separated by the somewhat dangerous area of sea known as the Minch. Out in the Atlantic ocean the islands have been dramatically shaped by the pounding waves and powerful winds (that occur during the winter months) the landscape is incredibly unique. Throughout the islands there are many archaeological sites of extreme interest to archaeologists and visitors alike.
It would seem that wherever you turn in the Outer Hebrides there appears an archaeological site. There are certainly many unusual mounds, lumps and bumps which could easily be ancient burial chambers and each year more and more sites are unearthed and documented. One of the most famous sites is to be found in the small village of Calanais on the Isle of Lewis. The standing stones there rather than forming a stone circle they have and inner circle and four avenues making a shape rather like a cross or crucifix.
The Outer Hebrides are also incredibly interesting for their rather unique flora and fauna (much of which is endangered). Surprisingly there are areas of ground which are extremely fertile, rather than damaging the ground the Atlantic weather fronts work to enrich the ground with a dusting of shell sand rich in calcium and other minerals. Though this land, called Machair, is only thin it manages to bring forth a multitude of wild flowers which appear as a blanket of color in the spring and summer months.
Although many consider the interior of the islands rather boring this is simply untrue. Although the interior of the Isle of Lewis consists mainly of flat and barren peat lands there are also a great many interesting and beautiful lochs and lochans. Maybe the interiors seem boring due to the fact that the islands coastline is so astounding. Along the west coast of the Outer Hebrides are some of the most beautiful beaches to be found in the United Kingdom (and some say Europe).
As you move from the north west of the Isle of Lewis to the south west you begin to see an increase in the number of sandy beaches until you reach the area around Uig where you will find the most beautiful. As you move onto the adjoining Isle of Harris the occurrence of spectacular sandy beaches continues and reaches a pinnacle in South Harris. North Uist and Benbecula have incredible coasts but it is on South Uist that you will find the most breathtaking beaches and largest expanses of machair in the Outer Hebrides.
With such a dramatic coastline, superb sandy beaches and Atlantic winds, it is little wonder that the Outer Hebrides are a superb vacation destination for those who like to indulge in sports such as surfing, wind surfing, wind carting and the likes. The islands of the Outer Hebrides are also incredibly popular for many other sports, the most obvious being running, rambling, hill walking, mountaineering and cycling. Of course there are also superb golf courses and, not least, some of the finest fishing in Scotland.
Visiting the Outer Hebrides has never been easier. Not so long ago it took many hours to reach the islands but it is now possible to fly to the islands or travel via a roll on roll off ferry which run regularly from a number of ports along the west coast of Scotland. Accommodation in the area is amongst the finest you are likely to have experienced. The Highlands and Islands of Scotland are world renowned for their hospitality. Accommodation ranges from first class hotels, superb bed and breakfast guest houses and lodges to excellent self catering properties. With most accommodation available online booking a vacation could not be easier.
