There are so many great things to do and experience in the Outer Hebrides. Whether you're up for high octane adventure or more sedate activities, there is something for everyone.
We have put together a few suggestions for you for this summer.
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Image: https://www.instagram.com/rhmerritt12
1. Catch the Sunset
Watch the sunset on the Atlantic Ocean – any beach on the west will do (the 20-mile beach – yes 20 miles - along the coast of South Uist will pretty much ensure you have the beach to yourself!). The stunning skies transform into myriad of hues and guaranteed to push you into relax mode and get you ready for a good night’s sleep.
2. Check in at the Community Hubs
Lots of communities have opened up fabulous community hubs recently in old schools. Some have a cafe, some a museum, some a wee shop and there are usually community events going on and lots more! They are a treasure trove of fascinating stories of days gone by which gives you context to how the islands are today and a great place to meet local people and hear Gaelic spoken.
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Image: Grinneabhat
3. Gin Galore (and whisky!)
Visit a Distillery (we have 4) – Isle of Harris Distillery, North Uist Distillery and Isle of Barra Distillery and Abhainn Dearg Distillery. Plenty to try and buy for your evening tipple!
Image: https://www.instagram.com/northuistdistillery/
4. Visit an Uninhabited Island
Take a boat trip to uninhabited offshore islands - Mingulay, Monach Isles, Scarp, Taransay, Pabbay, Flannan Isles and Shiant Isles. Learn about the history of these isles and the wildlife, well that’s another story – let’s just say puffins and loads more. You just have to go and find out for yourself!
Image: https://www.instagram.com/iainangusmacleod
5. Learn about Crofting Life
Visit a working croft and find out about our crofting way of life – you could pick up some fresh eggs, see some cute wee lambs, hear tales of days gone by, meet some Alpacans and maybe have a croft pony trek.
Image: https://www.instagram.com/angie_campbell23
6. Delve into some Watery Pursuits
Getting out on the water can be exhilarating – whether you’re looking to do some cold water swimming, kayaking, surfing or paddleboarding it is a great way to explore our rugged coastline.
Image: https://www.instagram.com/immersehebrides
7. Pick up a treat from an Honesty box
Honestly, they are delish! Keep your eyes peeled for the them. They come in all shapes and sizes – usually in front of a house or at the start of a village. From fresh eggs, homemade baking, soup, ready meals, seafood and even mustard!
8. Tune into the Hebridean Beat
Catch a music festival whilst you’re here. Our award-winning HebCelt, EDF and Ceolas are back on again this year - bring your dancing shoes and be prepared to Ceildih!
Image: Elsie Mitchell
9. Walk the Way
What way we hear you ask? There is only one way, the Hebridean Way!! Starting in Vatersay this walking route spans 10 islands and is 156miles long. Ok that might be a bit ambitious, but you can choose a smaller section. In fact, there are loads of walking routes and we have some lovely downloadable leaflets to help you navigate them.
Image: https://www.instagram.com/crofteress/
10. Get on your bike!
With cycling becoming more and more popular, you can hire bikes (e-bikes too), or take your own. Roads are pretty quiet (especially off the main routes) and are a fabulous way to explore our islands. You can also take a cycling holiday and Hebridean Hopscotch or Skinny Tyres will organise this for you.
Image: https://www.instagram.com/foodandforagehebrides/
11. Pick up Artisan Goods from our Artists and Makers
Whether it is our world-famous Harris Tweed (which has its own act of parliament!), hand made goods, a stunning landscape painting, island inspired pottery or jewellery, it will be a lasting memento of a memorable trip.
Image: https://www.instagram.com/dancingflowercrafts/
12. Ride along a Stunning Beach
There’s little to beat the thrill and excitement of horse riding in the Outer Hebrides. Riding along a beach at sunrise or having an evening ride through the village - bliss!
And there is so much more! Head over to our see and do section for inspiration.
Related
Community local produce shop selling quality products from Barra & Vatersay including fish, meat, bread, jams and chutneys, eggs, home baking and much more. Also stocks wholefood, books, wool & craft supplies. Free Wifi and laundrette.
Let your Hebridean Adventure begin with Seatrek, based in Uig on the Isle of Lewis, providing unforgettable day trips to some of our most remote islands such as North Rona and the Flannans, or take a boat trip round the stunning coastline.
We run sightseeing trips along the east and west coast of Uist, along with trips to Mingulay, Monach Isles and St Kilda. Other island destinations available on request.
Mingulay Boat Trips in Castlebay on the Isle of Barra will take you to the uninhabited islands to the south of Barra
A working craft centre featuring fused glass, ceramics, and silver jewellery. Featuring 3 galleries showing a wide range of work, all made in the Outer Hebrides, no imports or tourist tat. We also offer classes and workshops in glass and/or ceramics at all levels from beginner upwards. https://www.collpottery.co.uk/classes-courses
Inspired by the Atlantic coastline, Shoreline Stoneware draws inspiration from its unique Hebridean environment. Beautiful hand-crafted pieces, capture the essence of the Hebrides, reflecting the connection between the land and light of Uist.
Dancing Flower Crafts designs and handmakes one off, unique Harris Tweed® gifts and accessories. Inspired by the colours, sights, sounds, life, wildlife and environment of the magical Outer Hebrides. Each design is unique and I’m happy to design something special just for you.
No visit to Stornoway is complete without dining at the Boatshed Restaurant, located within the historic Royal Hotel. This esteemed restaurant offers meticulously curated lunch and dinner menus that celebrate the best of locally sourced produce. Guests can indulge in fresh, locally caught shellfish and seafood from the pristine waters of the Hebrides, as well as savour the finest Scottish beef and the award winning Stornoway black pudding. Every dish at the Boatshed is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the region, showcasing the unique flavours and ingredients that define Hebridean cuisine.
If you’re looking for a relaxed and casual dining experience, then look no further than HS1. Located in the heart of Stornoway town centre, HS1 offers stunning views across Stornoway Marina towards Lews Castle and its picturesque grounds. This prime location makes HS1 the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring everything the islands have to offer. The café style atmosphere, combined with friendly customer service, ensures that you will feel right at home from the moment you step inside.
Eleven Restaurant, nestled within the Caladh Inn in Stornoway, offers a delightful dining experience that has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant is a place where guests can enjoy an array of delicious options, all served with a friendly smile.
Menus at Cleaver change regularly to reflect the seasons and ingredient availability with fish options changing daily depending on catches. Feast on exquisite Leurbost Mussels, succulent Hebridean langoustines and scallops alongside hearty Scottish braised blade of beef and pan-fried duck breast.
Learn the Gaelic language with us and enrich your Gaelic conversation skills while visiting the Hebridean island communities. From immersion courses to one-off local lessons, let us give you a sense of belonging to the Gaelic world. We do not have an office/shop you can visit as we work from home.
Enjoy the peace and relaxed pace of a Hebridean Hopscotch holiday, organised just for you. Our expert advisors live locally and have the knowledge to help you select a complete itinerary that's a tailored 'made to measure' package.
Skinny Tyres provide unrivalled and expert support for your road cycling adventure in the Outer Hebrides. Our fully customised vans & expert team of guides means you can be confident that we will provide you with an amazing cycling holiday.
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