Scotland

Many folk are discovering a unique part of Scotland which is a superb vacation destination, the Hebrides. The Hebrides are a group of islands which are found off the west coast of Scotland and are split into two regions, the Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides. If you are planning a vacation to this outstanding area of the United Kingdom then you need to be aware of a few things that make the place unique. This article examines some of the problems which a tourist may have to overcome when visiting these islands.

The main Island in the Inner Hebrides is the Isle of Skye which is the most populated, most visited island with the largest landmass. Now connected to the Scottish mainland by a bridge (previously the only access was by ferry) the island is the easiest of all the islands to visit.

While many people visit the Inner Hebrides to enjoy the beautiful scenery many others visit the region to indulge in the favorite sports. Cycling is extremely popular but many hill walkers and mountaineers visit to climb in the Cuillins of Skye. One thing that you really need to understand is that, in the Hebrides, the weather can change from sunny to almost winter in just a few minutes. Please take safety precautions and dress and equip yourself correctly.

The Outer Hebrides are found a little further out to the west across the Minch (an infamous stretch of sea water) which can be crossed by air or by ferry. The outer isles consist of more than two hundred islands of which only a small number are actually inhabited. From the north to the south the main islands are as follows; the Isle of Lewis, the Isle of Harris, North and South Uist. The smaller inhabited islands include Barra and Eriskay to the south, Benbecula, Scalpay and several more, and most of which are worth visiting.

Most people visit the Outer Hebrides to enjoy the most amazing scenery which is somewhat different to the inner islands. While the bulk of Lewis consists of moorland the coast is astounding and it would appear that the further south you travel the more the west coasts of the islands appear to consist of breathtaking shell sand beaches. Cycling is again a popular sport as is walking and hill walking. Fishing and hunting are also popular and there are a number of excellent golf courses. Surfing is becoming incredibly popular and other sports such as wind surfing and sand surfing are in the increase.

Accommodation in the Hebrides is always of the highest standard. Hotels can prove to be a little on the expensive side but the hospitality is unbeatable. Throughout the islands you will see numerous guest houses and smaller houses offering bed and breakfast accommodation available at a very reasonable cost. Sadly it is often the case that such places are fully booked so it is incredibly important that you arrange your accommodation before you set off. It is becoming increasingly common to be able to book accommodation online and there are several web sites listing accommodation in the Hebrides.

Gaelic is the main language of the Hebrides and you will immediately notice that places are named in this native language. You will also hear the language being spoken widely in shops and in the streets. Luckily the vast majority of signs have an English translation and nearly everyone can speak perfect English. Even if you hear a crowd chatting in Gaelic it is rather important that you understand that they have a perfect comprehension of the English language and many have more than two languages.

A Sunday Sabbath is observed in some parts of the Hebrides and most places are closed. You will need to ensure that all shopping is done on the Saturday, especially if you are staying in self catering accommodation (as you will need to ensure you have adequate supplies). Also please be respectful as with any strong and unique culture it is often possible to offend without realizing it.