The Hebrides are a group of more than 400 islands found just off the Scottish north west coast. The islands of the Inner & Outer Hebrides have been inhabited since the Mesolithic times and throughout their history the way of life and culture has been strongly influenced by numerous races and today the culture of the Hebrideans is a mix of English, Scottish, Celtic and Norse influences. The majority of folk speak in the Gaelic language and though some speak English, it is commonly their second language. In the past visits to the Inner and Outer Hebrides were only for those with plenty of money and those folk who could afford plenty of time. These days it is far to travel to the Inner and Outer Hebrides, you can travel by car and ferry or take a flight to various airports on the islands. Sadly it is impossible to get all of the way by rail although you can travel to the coast and then catch a bus for the remainder of the journey. Often the only hiccup that can occur is arranging accommodation especially if you are looking for group accommodation on the Isle of Harris which is often fully booked up.
One of the most common reasons for visiting the Hebrides is that the the landscape and the culture of the Isles are dramatically unique. On the Isle of Harris you will find some of the most stunning golden sandy beaches in the whole of Scotland, and many folk believe the whole of Britain. Here and there you will find a standing stone on the Isle of Harris but it is on the adjoining Isle of Lewis that you will see the most astounding stone circle at Callanish not a huge distance from the town of Stornoway the main town in the Outer Hebrides. The Callanish stone circle is said to be second only to Stonehenge in England.
Deciding which island, Harris or Lewis, to stay on is a truly difficult decision and increasing numbers of people are choosing to spend some time on each. B&B accommodation on Lewis is commonly more readily available than Isle of Harris accommodation, so you should try to book as early as possible.
Bed and breakfast in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis is is not too much of a problem to find but again to be safe book in advance. All accommodation in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is of a very high standard and the hospitality is the best you are likely to witness and the local people friendly and helpful.
Besides the Isles of Lewis and Harris there are several other inhabited islands that are easy to visit. The most commonly visited are the Uists, Benbecula and Barra and you will find a ferry which runs from Harris to North Uist at Leverburgh.
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