A Guide to the Outer Hebrides Archipelago

The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles, is an archipelago located off the west coast of mainland Scotland. The islands that make up the Outer Hebrides vary in size and character, offering diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique cultural heritage. Here is a list of some of the main islands that are part of the Outer Hebrides:

1. Lewis and Harris: While often referred to as one island, Lewis and Harris are actually two parts of a single landmass, connected by a narrow isthmus. Lewis is in the north, and Harris is in the south. They are the largest and most populous islands in the archipelago.
2. North Uist: Known for its beautiful beaches and rugged landscapes, North Uist offers a mix of peat bogs, lochs, and machair (a type of coastal grassland). It is connected to Berneray by a causeway.
3. Benbecula: Situated between North Uist and South Uist, Benbecula is characterized by its flat terrain and fertile land. It is connected to North Uist and South Uist by causeways.
4. South Uist: With its stunning coastline, sandy beaches, and hills, South Uist offers a range of outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes.
5. Barra: Known for its unique airport, which features a beach runway, Barra is a small island with charming beaches, hills, and a rich cultural heritage.
6. Vatersay: Connected to Barra by a causeway, Vatersay is the southernmost inhabited island in the Outer Hebrides. It’s known for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters.
7. Eriskay: Famous as the landing point of Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745, Eriskay is a small island with a strong connection to Gaelic culture and history.
8. Berneray: Connected to North Uist by a causeway, Berneray offers picturesque landscapes, with machair, beaches, and coastal habitats.
9. Scalpay: Not to be confused with the larger Scalpay near Skye, this island is off the east coast of Harris. It’s known for its fishing heritage and natural beauty.
10. Great Bernera: Connected to Lewis by a bridge, Great Bernera features historical sites, including the famous Callanish Stones.
11. Flodaigh: Also known as Flodda, this uninhabited island is located off the coast of North Uist and is known for its birdlife.

These islands collectively offer a diverse range of landscapes, cultural experiences, and historical sites, making the Outer Hebrides a captivating destination for visitors interested in exploring Scotland’s island heritage. Keep in mind that my knowledge is based on information available up until September 2021, and there may have been developments or changes since that time.