Caribbean Vacation Rentals

The Hebrides Isles are a group of more than 400 islands found not too far off the north west coast of Scotland.  The islands of the Inner & Outer Hebrides have been lived on since the Mesolithic times and throughout history the culture and language has been strongly influenced by numerous races and today the culture of the Hebrideans is a blend of Scottish, English, Celtic and Norse influences. Gaelic is the most widely spoken language and although many speak English, it is more often their 2nd language. Not too many years ago tours of the Hebrides were only for those with deep pockets and those people who could afford plenty of time. In modern times it is remarkably to reach the Inner and Outer Hebrides, you can get there by ferry and car or take a flight to various destinations on the islands. Unfortunately it is not possible to get all of the way by train but you can travel by train to the coast and then catch a bus for the rest of the trip. Often the only problem that can turn up is sorting out accommodation especially if  you are looking for accommodation for groups on Harris which is commonly fully booked up.

One of the main reasons people visit the Western Isles/Outer Hebrides is that the the landscape and culture of the islands are curiously unique.  Along the west coast of the Isle of Harris there are some of the most breath takingly beautiful beaches in all of Scotland, and many people say the whole of the U.K. Every now and again you will notice a standing stone on the Isle of Harris but it is on Lewis that you will find the finest standing stones at Calanais not a great distance from the town of Stornoway the principal town in the Outer Hebrides. The Callanish stone circle is said to be 2nd to only England’s Stonehenge.

Deciding which island, the Isles of Harris or Lewis, to stay on is often difficult and more and more people are choosing to spend a short time on each. Bed & breakfast on Lewis is often more plentiful than Harris accommodation, book early to avoid upset.

Stornoway bed and breakfast is far less of a problem to find but to be safe ensure you book early. Nearly all accommodation in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles is of a high standard and the hospitality is the best you are likely to witness and the local people friendly and helpful.

Besides the Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris there are a small number of other isles that are relatively easy to visit. The most popular are North and South Uist, Barra and Benbecula and there is a ferry which runs from Harris to North Uist at Leverburgh, a small village on South Harris.