Is this Aruba? No, it’s Scotland. You might be forgiven for the confusion when you see views like this.
If you decide to go for a swim, the freezing water temperatures will steer you straight. After all, the Outer Hebrides are an island chain off the coast of Northwest Scotland.
Known as Na h-Eileanan an Iar in Gaelic, the Western Isles have a rich history and heritage with Celtic and Viking influences. Following the 1263 defeat of the Vikings, the Outer Hebrides were ceded to Scotland and passed into control of the Lordship of the Isles.
This vibrant legacy is alive and well today… and cycling the Hebridean Way is a great way to explore this remote part of Scotland.
With the prevailing wind direction from south to north, I recommend you start with the five-hour ferry ride from Oban to Castlebay, arriving in the charming main settlement of Barra. Barra Bike Hire offers one-way bike rental, so you can drop off with partnering Bespoke Bikes in Stornoway before taking the ferry back to the mainland.
Barra and neighbouring Vatersay are the two most southern inhabited islands of the Outer Hebrides with their combined 1,300 residents. I studied island energy for these isles and I’ve truly enjoyed continuing to support local energy and development initiatives through my time in Scotland.
