Day Trips & Excursions: Outer Hebrides

Nearby Destinations

Accessible locations within day-trip distance:

Inter-island Hopping: The Outer Hebrides structure facilitates day trips or multi-day excursions between islands via CalMac ferries. Experience the distinct character of each island.

Lewis to Harris: Straightforward by car; they are physically one island, connected by a narrow land bridge.

Harris to North Uist: Take a ferry from Leverburgh to Otternish. This crossing is shorter, suited for a day trip.

South Uist to Barra: A ferry connects Eriskay to Barra. This also links the southern islands.

North Uist/Benbecula/South Uist: Causeways connect these islands, allowing easy driving between them. Explore all three in a single day starting early.

Isle of Skye: Access via ferry from Tarbert (Harris) to Uig (Skye) or Lochmaddy (North Uist) to Uig (Skye). A focused day trip could work for northern Skye, but an overnight stay makes for a more relaxed visit.

Transportation and Touring

Ferries: CalMac Ferries form the main transport for inter-island travel and Skye connections.
Rental Car: A rental car offers flexibility for exploring remote areas. Take your rental car on the ferries.
Organized Tours: Local companies provide guided tours. This option suits those preferring not to drive or seeking expert commentary.
Independent Travel: This choice allows exploration at your own pace. Pre-book ferries and car hire for this approach.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Outer Hebrides adventure with these suggestions.

Recommendations

For adding 1-3 days to the itinerary:

Mainland Scotland

Scottish Mainland (Highlands): After the Outer Hebrides, consider 2-3 days in the North West Highlands or Cairngorms National Park. Ferries to Ullapool or Oban connect you. This contrasts with the islands.
Isle of Skye: A natural extension, with dramatic landscapes like the Old Man of Storr, Quiraing, and Fairy Pools. It connects by ferry from Harris or North Uist.
Inner Hebrides: From Oban (via South Uist/Barra ferry), explore Mull, Iona (for its historical abbey), or Staffa (for Fingal's Cave).

Logical Next Destinations

Where to go after the Outer Hebrides:

Destination Highlights

North West Highlands: Rugged mountains, vast lochs, and stunning coastal scenery await. Great for hikers and landscape photographers.
Perthshire / Central Scotland: Historic castles, distilleries, and cities like Inverness, Glasgow, or Edinburgh. This presents a different cultural and historical perspective.
Transportation Connections: CalMac ferries link Stornoway to Ullapool, Tarbert/Lochmaddy to Uig (Skye), and Lochboisdale/Castlebay to Oban. Roads on the mainland are good. ScotRail connects mainland towns.

Longer Regional Travel

Suggested Routes

North Coast 500: Combine your Outer Hebrides visit with part of the NC500 route (from Ullapool). Experience Scotland's northern Highlands comprehensively.
Argyll & Islands: Link the Outer Hebrides via Oban to explore Argyll and the Inner Hebrides. This route focuses on Scotland's western coast and islands.
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Time Requirements

Inter-island: A full day (8+ hours) allows for comprehensive exploration of a new island, including travel and sightseeing.
Skye: A full day provides a taste of Northern Skye. For a richer experience, plan 1-2 nights on Skye.
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(Placeholder for additional time info if needed)

Considerations

Booking Ferries:Essential in advance
Car Hire:Recommended for flexibility
Accommodation:Book ahead, especially summer
Weather:Be prepared for changes

Sunday Closures:Widespread, plan accordingly
Remote Areas:Limited services
Wildlife:Observe from a distance
Local Culture:Respect traditions

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Plan and book your day trips and excursions through GetYourGuide for a seamless experience.

Tour Options

Various ways to experience the islands.

Independent Exploration

Discover at your own pace. Rent a car, pre-book ferries, and follow your own path.

Guided Tours

Join local companies for expert commentary and local insights. No driving needed.

Flexible Timing

A full day (8+ hours) allows for comprehensive inter-island exploration. Skye visits benefit from 1-2 nights.

Independent Travel Advantages

Explore the Outer Hebrides with ultimate freedom.

Benefits

Customize your route and stops.
Set your own pace at each location.
Discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Organized Tour Benefits

Structured exploration with local experts.

Perks

Gain insights from expert commentary.
Travel without the stress of driving or navigation.
Meet fellow travelers on a shared journey.

Journey Facts

Stornoway to Ullapool Ferry2 hr 30 min

Tarbert (Harris) to Uig (Skye) Ferry1 hr 40 min

Lochmaddy (N. Uist) to Uig (Skye) Ferry1 hr 45 min

Leverburgh (Harris) to Otternish (N. Uist) Ferry1 hr 10 min

Eriskay to Barra Ferry40 min

Barra Airport RunwayBeach Landing

Booking Ahead

Ferry bookings are highly advisable, specifically during peak season.
Accommodation also warrants advance booking, especially for smaller islands.
Some popular attractions may require timed entry; check their websites.
Consider travel insurance for any unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Factor in potential weather delays, especially for ferry schedules.

Specialized Experiences

Dive into unique Outer Hebrides activities.

Wildlife & Nature Tours

Seek out the islands' diverse fauna and stunning natural habitats.

Activities

Boat trips for whale and dolphin spotting.
Birdwatching at RSPB reserves.
Seal and otter encounters along the coast.

Outdoor Adventure

Embrace the rugged landscapes with active pursuits.

Excursions

Hiking in the dramatic North Harris Mountains.
Cycling along quiet island roads and causeways.
Kayaking or surfing on the west coast beaches.

Cultural Immersion

Connect with the rich heritage and traditions.

Experiences

Visit ancient sites like Callanish Standing Stones.
Explore historic Blackhouse Villages.
Discover local art and craft studios.

Food & Drink Trails

Taste the flavors of the Outer Hebrides.

Culinary Highlights

Sample Stornoway Black Pudding.
Savor fresh island seafood.
Tour the Isle of Harris Distillery.

Tour Operator Considerations

Choosing the right tour operator.

Local Knowledge

Operators based on the islands share deep local insights.

Sustainability Focus

Look for tours committed to low environmental impact.

Small Group Size

Smaller groups often mean a more personal experience.

Guided Experience Advantage

For unique insights and seamless travel, consider booking guided excursions. They offer depth to your Outer Hebrides adventure.

Planning Your Excursions

Practical tips for your day trips.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Research Destinations

Identify islands or mainland areas you wish to visit based on your interests.

2

Check Ferry Schedules

CalMac ferries are for inter-island travel; confirm times and book tickets.

3

Consider Transport

Decide between bringing your car, renting one, or using local transport.

Packing Essentials

Waterproof clothing
Sturdy walking shoes
Snacks and drinks
Portable charger
Map or GPS device
Camera and binoculars

Practical Advice

Start your day early to maximize exploration time.
Check local opening times, especially for attractions and eateries.
Be prepared for sudden weather changes, even in summer.
Inform someone of your itinerary if you are exploring remote areas.
Leave no trace; take all rubbish with you.
Respect local customs, especially Sunday observance.

Emergency & Safety

Emergency Services

Dial 999 for police, fire, ambulance, or coastguard assistance.

Local Contacts

Keep local accommodation or tour operator contacts handy for queries.

Road Safety

Drive carefully on single-track roads; use passing places.

Seamless Booking

For a smooth planning process, explore and book experiences in advance. Discover possibilities at GetYourGuide.

Day Trips & Excursions