The Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. With its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and picturesque villages, the Outer Hebrides offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. One of the most important aspects of planning a trip to the Outer Hebrides is choosing the right place to stay, as it can make a big difference in your overall experience.
Best Places To Stay Outer Hebrides
In this article, we will explore the best places to stay in the Outer Hebrides, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy B&B, or a self-catering cottage, we’ve got you covered.
Location, Location, Location
When it comes to choosing a place to stay in the Outer Hebrides, location is key. The islands are spread out, and traveling between them can take time. Therefore, it’s essential to choose a location that is convenient for your travel plans and allows you to easily explore the surrounding area. Some popular locations include:
- Stornoway: The largest town in the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway is a great base for exploring the islands and offers a range of accommodation options.
- Ullapool: A charming fishing village on the mainland, Ullapool is a popular starting point for boat trips to the Outer Hebrides and offers a range of accommodation options.
- Lochboisdale: A picturesque village on the island of South Uist, Lochboisdale is a great base for exploring the southern islands and offers a range of accommodation options.
Amenities and Atmosphere
In addition to location, amenities and atmosphere are also important considerations when choosing a place to stay in the Outer Hebrides. Some popular amenities include:
- Free Wi-Fi: A must-have for many travelers, free Wi-Fi is available at many hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages.
- Parking: If you’re planning to explore the islands by car, parking is a must-have amenity.
- Restaurant and Bar: A great way to relax and enjoy local cuisine, many hotels and B&Bs offer on-site restaurants and bars.
In terms of atmosphere, the Outer Hebrides is known for its warm and welcoming culture. Many accommodation providers offer a unique and authentic experience, such as:
- Traditional Scottish hospitality: Many B&Bs and hotels offer traditional Scottish hospitality, including a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast.
- Local cuisine: Many accommodation providers offer local cuisine, such as fresh seafood and traditional Scottish dishes.
- Scenic views: The Outer Hebrides is known for its stunning natural beauty, and many accommodation providers offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
In the next section, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay in the Outer Hebrides, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and atmosphere. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Vancouver Island)
Best Places to Stay in the Outer Hebrides
The Outer Hebrides, a chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland, offer a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. With its stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that the Outer Hebrides are a popular destination for tourists. But with so many beautiful places to stay, it can be difficult to decide where to go. In this article, we’ll explore the best places to stay in the Outer Hebrides, from luxurious hotels to cozy B&Bs and self-catering cottages.
Island Hopping
The Outer Hebrides are made up of 15 main islands, each with its own unique character and charm. From the largest island, Lewis, to the smallest, North Uist, each island has its own distinct culture and history. To make the most of your stay, we recommend island-hopping to explore the different islands and experience their unique attractions.
Accommodation Options
There are many different types of accommodation to choose from in the Outer Hebrides, from luxury hotels to cozy B&Bs and self-catering cottages. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- Lewis:
- The Lews Castle Hotel, Stornoway
- The Royal Hotel, Stornoway
- The Callanish Hotel, Callanish
- North Uist:
- The Lochmaddy Hotel, Lochmaddy
- The Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum and Arts Centre, Lochmaddy
- The North Uist Self-Catering Cottages, Lochmaddy
- South Uist:
- The South Uist Hotel, Lochboisdale
- The Taigh nan Fàsach, Lochboisdale
- The South Uist Self-Catering Cottages, Lochboisdale
- Harris:
- The Harris Hotel, Tarbert
- The Taigh an Sgur, Tarbert
- The Harris Self-Catering Cottages, Tarbert
Luxury Hotels
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in the Outer Hebrides, here are some of the best luxury hotels:
Hotel | Location | Price Range |
---|---|---|
The Lews Castle Hotel | Stornoway, Lewis | £150-£300 per night |
The Royal Hotel | Stornoway, Lewis | £120-£250 per night |
The Harris Hotel | Tarbert, Harris | £100-£200 per night |
B&Bs and Self-Catering Cottages
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, here are some of the best B&Bs and self-catering cottages:
- Lewis:
- The Callanish B&B, Callanish
- The Stornoway B&B, Stornoway
- The Lewis Self-Catering Cottages, Stornoway
- North Uist:
- The Lochmaddy B&B, Lochmaddy
- The North Uist Self-Catering Cottages, Lochmaddy
- South Uist:
- The Lochboisdale B&B, Lochboisdale
- The South Uist Self-Catering Cottages, Lochboisdale
- Harris:
- The Tarbert B&B, Tarbert
- The Harris Self-Catering Cottages, Tarbert
Things to Do
The Outer Hebrides offer a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all interests. Here are some of the top things to do: (See Also: St Ives Best Places To Stay)
- Beachcombing: The Outer Hebrides are famous for their beautiful beaches, with their white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Island-hopping: Take a ferry to explore the different islands and experience their unique culture and history.
- Wildlife-watching: The Outer Hebrides are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with their diverse range of species, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
- History and culture: Visit the many museums and historical sites to learn about the Outer Hebrides’ rich cultural heritage.
- Outdoor activities: The Outer Hebrides offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and fishing.
Recap
The Outer Hebrides are a unique and unforgettable destination, with their stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly accommodation, there’s something for everyone in the Outer Hebrides. From beachcombing to island-hopping, there are plenty of things to do and see in this beautiful part of Scotland. So why not start planning your trip today and experience the magic of the Outer Hebrides for yourself?
Here are five FAQs related to the “Best Places To Stay Outer Hebrides”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to the Outer Hebrides?
The best way to get to the Outer Hebrides is by flying into Stornoway Airport on the Isle of Lewis or by taking a ferry from Ullapool on the Scottish mainland. You can also take a flight from Glasgow or Inverness to Stornoway Airport with a connecting flight from the Isle of Harris. If you prefer to drive, you can take a ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway, but be aware that this route is subject to weather conditions.
What are the best places to stay in the Outer Hebrides?
The Outer Hebrides offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to self-catering cottages and camping sites. Some popular places to stay include Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, Tarbert on the Isle of Harris, and Uig on the Isle of Skye. You can also consider staying in one of the many small villages and towns on the islands, such as Lochmaddy on North Uist or Lochboisdale on South Uist.
What are the best activities to do in the Outer Hebrides?
The Outer Hebrides offer a range of activities to suit all interests and ages. You can explore the islands’ beautiful beaches, go hiking or cycling, or take a boat trip to spot wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and whales. You can also visit the many historic sites and museums on the islands, such as the Calanais Standing Stones on Lewis or the Carloway Broch on Harris. For the more adventurous, you can try kayaking or surfing, or take a guided tour to explore the islands’ rugged coastline. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Near Phoenix)
What is the best time to visit the Outer Hebrides?
The best time to visit the Outer Hebrides is from spring to autumn, when the weather is generally mild and sunny. However, the islands are also beautiful in the winter months, when the landscape is covered in snow and the wildlife is more active. If you’re planning to visit during the peak summer months, be aware that the islands can get busy, and accommodation prices may be higher.
Are the Outer Hebrides suitable for families?
The Outer Hebrides are a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions to suit all ages. Many of the islands’ beaches are suitable for swimming and sunbathing, and there are also many scenic walks and bike trails to explore. You can also visit the many museums and historic sites on the islands, which often offer interactive exhibits and activities for children. Additionally, many of the islands’ accommodation providers offer family-friendly facilities and services, such as babysitting and kids’ clubs.