The Western Isles are a small group of islands found just off the north west coast of Scotland. The islands of the Hebrides have been inhabited since the Mesolithic period and throughout their history the culture and way of life has been strongly influenced by various races and today the culture of the Hebrides is a mix of Celtic, Norse, Scottish and English influences. The vast majority of people speak in the Gaelic language and though many speak English, it is most commonly their second language. Not too long ago vacations in the Western Isles/Outer Hebrides were only for people with plenty of cash and those people who could afford plenty of time. In modern times it is far to reach the Inner and Outer Hebrides, it is possible to travel by car and boat or take a flight to various places on the islands. Regrettably you are unable to get all of the way by rail although you can catch a train to the coast and then travel by bus for the rest of the journey. Often the only problem that can turn up is sorting out where to stay especially if you are searching for Isle of Harris accommodation for groups which is frequently fully booked twelve months in advance.
One of the most common reasons for visiting the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is that the islands landscape and culture are dramatically unique. Dotted along the south west coast of the Isle of Harris you will find some of the most breath takingly beautiful beaches of golden sand in all of Scotland, and many folk believe the whole of Great Britain. Every now and again you will find a standing stone on the Harris coastline but it is on the Isle of Lewis that you will see the most awe inspiring circle of standing stones at Callanish not too far away from the town of Stornoway the only town in the Western Isles/Outer Hebrides. The standing stones at Calanais is said to be 2nd to only Stonehenge in England.
Deciding whether to stay on Lewis or Harris is often difficult and more and more people are deciding to spend a short time on each. B&B accommodation on Lewis is commonly more plentiful than Harris accommodation, book early to avoid upset.
Bed & breakfast in Stornoway is is usually available but again to be certain book early. Virtually all accommodation in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is of good quality and the hospitality is second to none and the local folk friendly and helpful.
Besides the Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris there are several other islands that are easy to visit. The most commonly visited are the Uists, Barra and Eriskay and a ferry can be caught which runs from Harris to North Uist at Leverburgh, a small village on South Harris.
