The Western Isles are a small group of islands located just off the north west coast of Scotland. The islands of the Hebrides have been inhabited since the Mesolithic period and through their history the culture and way of life has been greatly influenced by various races and today the culture of the Hebrides is a mix of Scottish, English, Celtic and Norse influences. In general most folk speak in the Gaelic language and though many speak English, it is commonly their second language. Not too long ago vacations in the Hebrides were only for folk with plenty of cash and those people who had plenty of time. In modern times it is incredibly to reach the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles, you can travel by boat and car or take a flight to various destinations on the islands. Unfortunately you are unable to get all of the way by rail but you can catch a train to the coast and then catch a coach for the remainder of the journey. Sometimes the only hiccup that can arise is sorting a place to stay especially if you require Harris accommodation for groups which is often booked solid for the next twelve months.
One of the main reasons folk travel to the Hebrides Isles is that the the landscape and culture of the islands are curiously unique. Dotted along the west coast of the Isle of Harris there are some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the whole of Scotland, and many folk say the United Kingdom of Great Britain. Here and there you will notice a standing stone on Harris but it is on Lewis that you will find the most astounding standing stones at Calanais not too far away from the town of Stornoway the principal town in the Outer Hebrides/Western Isles. The standing stones at Calanais is said to be 2nd to only England’s Stonehenge.
Deciding which island, Harris or Lewis, to stay on is often a difficult decision and more and more folk are settling to spend a few days on each. Lewis bed & breakfast is often more plentiful than Isle of Harris accommodation, so you should really book well in advance.
Bed and breakfast in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis is is far less problematic but again to be certain book early. All accommodation in the Outer Hebrides is of a very high standard and the hospitality is the best you are likely to witness and the folk helpful and friendly.
Besides Isle of Harris and the Isle of Lewis there are several other islands that are extremely easy to visit. The most commonly visited are the Uists, Benbecula and Barra and there is a ferry which runs from Harris to North Uist at the South Harris village of Leverburgh.