Outer Hebrides: Bespoke island-hopping holidays make Scotland’s Hebridean idyll even more accessible
The incredible white sand beaches, turquoise seas and unspoiled landscapes of the chain of islands known as the Outer Hebrides – Barra, the Uists, Harris and Lewis – have long been favourite islands for those who love to get away from it all and leave the stresses of home or work life behind.
But trying to fit in everything you want to do, finding the right accommodation and co-ordinating ferries or flights can be a daunting task – and who needs that stress when you’re trying to arrange time out to completely relax?
That’s where Hebridean Hopscotch comes in. This bespoke holiday company has been arranging Hebridean holidays for over 25 years. It is their expert local knowledge, unflappable organisational skills and friendly but professional approach which makes them the ideal company to help you plan your dream trip.
Close to home but another world
Nicola MacDonald, manager of Hebridean Hopscotch is one of a team of four staff, all born and bred on the islands, who knows this area intimately.
With easy connections from Yorkshire to mainland Scotland by train, plane or car, getting to the mainland ports or airports for that first hop onto one of the islands is straightforward.
And whether you want to tour all the islands from top to bottom, bottom to top, or just visit one or two Hebridean Hopscotch can help advise on the best routes, find accommodation to suit your likes and budget, and book everything for you – including transport while you’re there.
Why the Hebrides?
There are so many reasons to visit the Outer Hebrides. The unique landscape and unspoiled beaches is often top of people’s wish lists – visitors are enchanted by long white sand beaches and turquoise waters, and often find they’re the only visitor there.
There is also a superb choice of accommodation, from friendly small bed and breakfast places, to boutique guest houses and four star hotels. You’ll find friendly and enthusiastic staff wherever you go – everyone will want you to enjoy your stay and make the most of your trip.
It’s a popular place for people to go to research family histories and connect with their Scottish ancestors, see the spectacular – and rare – wildlife, to switch off the phone and reconnect with nature, visit some of the ancient sites and standing stones, play golf on some of the world’s most stunning locations, go sea-kayaking, wild swimming or surfing but there’s so much more.
There are museums with famous artefacts like the Lewis chessmen, or the Blackhouses which show how people used to live on the islands.
“One thing people don’t realise is that, although they are close together, individually the islands are all very different,” says Nicola. Harris is hilly and the Uists flat, with Barra offering a bit of both.
The inter-island ferries don’t take long – 40 minutes to an hour – and with glorious views and the possibility of spotting dolphins or porpoises, no journey will be dull.
Get a taste for fresh food
Island communities are fiercely proud of the abundance of fresh food on offer – from seafood to cheeses, from locally reared meats to smoked fish. Visitors will find plenty of local island and mainland Scottish food on offer.
“We are very fortunate to have incredible seafood in abundance here,” says Nicola. “You might see the fisherman arrive at the hotel in the morning with what they’ve caught, and be choosing it off the menu that evening.”
In season you’ll find locally reared lamb or venison dishes on the menu, and of course fine wines and spirits – no meal would be complete without a wee dram to finish off the evening.
How can I get around?
Whether you’re taking your own car to one of the mainland ports at Oban, Uig or Skye, or hiring a car on mainland Scotland, Hebridean Hopscotch can organise the flights or ferries to the Islands, the small interisland ferries and accommodation for a comprehensive package to suit your needs.
And for the fit and adventurous you could tour the islands by bike – either bringing your own or Hebridean Hopscotch can arrange bike hire and transport if you only want to cycle the route one way.
They advise a holiday of five night’s stay as ideal to see all the islands – but you could take a trip of three nights or up to three weeks.
Why choose Hebridean Hopscotch
Nothing can beat local knowledge, whether that’s finding the ideal accommodation for your, the best itinerary for your time, budget and interests or knowing just the restaurant which is going to give you a meal to remember.
Not only do all the staff know these islands intimately, but they live and work here every day and understand the complexities of island life. Being a small team and not on commission, you’ll get to know them and they will get to know you and what you want from your holiday.
They can also suggest packages for those who are not sure exactly what they want to experience – or tailor it specifically for those who want a bespoke holiday. And, should anything change whilst you’re away, they’re just a call away.
Always at your service
During the holiday season, there is an on call advisor available, so customers are not on their own. So if an emergency occurs, an advisor can be contacted outwith office hours.
“Things do happen, and people’s circumstances can change - and that doesn’t always happen between 9 and 5,” Nicola says. “If it’s needed we can re-arrange ferries or accommodation quickly if someone suddenly needs to get back home.”
Visit the website
Find out more about suggested packages and things to see and do on the Hebridean Hopscotch website, and call for a friendly, no-obligation, chat to discuss your dream trip on 01851 706611.
And follow them on Instagram for more inspiration here.