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Highlights
Our flagship holiday is the ideal tour if you love remote Scottish islands - visiting 10 islands in 6 days and walking some of the finest routes in Scotland! A great way to experience the magic of the Outer Hebrides, this gentle journey down the entire length of the island chain offers unrivalled variety, interest and scenic beauty. Over the course of the week you will visit wonderful Lewis beaches, remote mountain glens in Harris, see the stunning flowering machair of the Uists and experience the unique charms of the smaller southern Hebridean islands of Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay. We will be travelling at a relaxed pace, with a mixture of longer and shorter days. As well as enjoying great walks we will take time to experience some of the fabulous wildlife the islands have to offer (the Uists, for example, are the best place in Britain for the elusive corncrakes). You will also experience some tremendous archaeology, including Lewis's two spectacular ancient monuments: Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch. Staying at carefully selected B&Bs for three nights each (three nights in Stornoway on Lewis and three nights on Benbecula), our Outer Hebrides Highlights holiday is the perfect introduction to these fascinating islands. Be warned, these islands are very addictive - like many of our previous clients, if you come on this trip you will probably find yourself coming back for more! |
2024 Dates:
Sat 25th - Fri 31st May 1 place left Sat 8th - Fri 14th June Full Sat 6th - Fri 12th July Full Sat 27th July - Fri 2nd August 8 places left Sat 10th - Fri 16th August 8 places left Sat 24th - Fri 30th August 8 places left Sat 7th - Fri 13th September 6 places left How long: 6 nights, 5 days walking Grade: Easy / Moderate (see our Grading Information page for more details on how we grade our tours) Start: Inverness Price: £1,765. Single supplement £160. ***£50 discount for returning clients!*** |
Tour Details (please note that this schedule may be subject to change depending on weather conditions during the trip).
Included meals are shown as follows: B - breakfast; L - lunch; D - dinner
DAY 1 - LEWIS: ARRIVE IN STORNOWAY (D)
We will depart Inverness train station at 2.30pm then drive to Ullapool, stopping off enroute for an easy 1 hour hike along the Blackwater River. We will then catch the evening ferry to Stornoway (the sailing takes approximately 2.5 hours), dining on the boat and arriving at Stornoway at 9.30pm. You will then be dropped off at your B&B in Stornoway.
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 2 - HARRIS: HUISINIS & CRABHADAIL (B, L, D)
This wonderful and varied low level hike is one of the best in Scotland. Starting at the beautiful sandy beach at Huisinis, we begin with a short, rocky climb up and over the shoulder of a small hill, before descending to visit the stunning beach of Traigh Mheillin. From here you will have unparalleled views out to the nearby island of Scarp. After walking the length of the beach we will climb the tiny hill Mheilein (a mighty 77m / 252ft!) which will provide amazing views of sea, beaches, islands and mountains. Finally we head down to the shores of beautiful freshwater Loch na Cleabhaig before another short, steep climb takes us back to the path that we used on the way out.
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 3 - LEWIS: CALLANISH, CARLOWAY & BUTT OF LEWIS (B, L, D)
In the morning we will visit Lewis's two spectacular archaeological sites - the famous 5,000 year old Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch, a magnificent 2,000 year old iron age fort. We will then drive to the northern most tip of the Hebrides, to the township of Ness and the dramatic Butt of Lewis lighthouse, where we will do a wonderful hike along this dramatic section of coastline. After this we will visit Dun Eistean, a spectacular island fort accessed by a rather exciting footbridge, and end the day with a visit to the lovely old fishing harbour at Port of Ness
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 4 - NORTH UIST: BERNERAY (B, L, D)
Time to pack your bags as today we are catching the ferry to the Uists! We start with a drive down to Leverburgh at the southern tip of Harris, where we ill join the queue for the ferry and maybe sample the delights of the Butty Bus, a converted coach that sells drinks and hot sandwich rolls and is something of a Harris institution!
On a fine day the 1 hour ferry ride across the Sound of Harris must be one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world.
After the crossing we will spend the afternoon exploring the gorgeous island of Berneray, with its wonderful mixture of picturesque cottages, flower rich machair meadows and fabulous sandy beaches.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 5 - SOUTH UIST: RUABHAL & HOWMORE (B, L, D)
In the morning we will climb the small hill of Ruabhal in the centre of Benbecula. Although a mere 416ft / 127m high, this little peak provides astonishing views over the unique island of Benbecula - rarely can such a short climb provide such spectacular views! To the west you will see the flat, sandy machair meadows where the island's small population mostly lives. Looking east, however, you will encounter a vast watery landscape quite unlike anywhere else in Britain, where a tangled mosaic of freshwater and sea lochs is interspersed by small pockets of dry land.
In the afternoon we will take the short drive to Howmore in South Uist which, with its thatched cottages, ruined medieval chapels and ancient graveyard, is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric of all the Hebridean villages. Our walk will take us to the picturesque estuary of the Howmore river, along part of the magnificent sandy beach that makes up the entire west coast of South Uist, then back through flower rich machair meadows which are alive with thousands of ground nesting wading birds in the spring and summer.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 6 - BARRA & VATERSAY (B, L, D)
Our final full day in the Hebrides is a long but wonderful day trip to the islands of Barra and Vatersay. We will have an early start then drive down the length of South Uist before taking the ferry from Eriskay to Barra.
Barra has a strong sense of community and packs a lot into a small area. In the morning we will explore the amazing island of Vatersay. Connected these days to Barra by a small causeway, Vatersay has a fascinating history and our walk will take in an iron age fort, the site of a tragic 19th Century shipwreck and some truly stunning beaches (even by Hebridean standards!). At the southern tip of Vatersay we will have unforgettable views to the uninhabited islands at the southern tip of the archipelago: Sandray, Pabay and Mingulay.
In the afternoon we will walk around the peninsula of Eoligarry at the north end of Barra. As well as its superb machair meadows, abundance of corncrakes and fine coastal scenery, this is also the location of the island's unique airport - the only place in Britain where scheduled passenger planes land and take off on the beach. Even if you are utterly disinterested in aviation this is quite a sight, so we will try and time things to watch a landing or departure.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 7 - DEPART (B)
On the final morning we will pack our bags before catching the ferry from North Uist to Skye and driving back to Inverness. We should arrive back at Inverness train station between 5pm and 6pm, depending on the traffic.
Included meals are shown as follows: B - breakfast; L - lunch; D - dinner
DAY 1 - LEWIS: ARRIVE IN STORNOWAY (D)
We will depart Inverness train station at 2.30pm then drive to Ullapool, stopping off enroute for an easy 1 hour hike along the Blackwater River. We will then catch the evening ferry to Stornoway (the sailing takes approximately 2.5 hours), dining on the boat and arriving at Stornoway at 9.30pm. You will then be dropped off at your B&B in Stornoway.
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 2 - HARRIS: HUISINIS & CRABHADAIL (B, L, D)
This wonderful and varied low level hike is one of the best in Scotland. Starting at the beautiful sandy beach at Huisinis, we begin with a short, rocky climb up and over the shoulder of a small hill, before descending to visit the stunning beach of Traigh Mheillin. From here you will have unparalleled views out to the nearby island of Scarp. After walking the length of the beach we will climb the tiny hill Mheilein (a mighty 77m / 252ft!) which will provide amazing views of sea, beaches, islands and mountains. Finally we head down to the shores of beautiful freshwater Loch na Cleabhaig before another short, steep climb takes us back to the path that we used on the way out.
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 3 - LEWIS: CALLANISH, CARLOWAY & BUTT OF LEWIS (B, L, D)
In the morning we will visit Lewis's two spectacular archaeological sites - the famous 5,000 year old Callanish Stones and Carloway Broch, a magnificent 2,000 year old iron age fort. We will then drive to the northern most tip of the Hebrides, to the township of Ness and the dramatic Butt of Lewis lighthouse, where we will do a wonderful hike along this dramatic section of coastline. After this we will visit Dun Eistean, a spectacular island fort accessed by a rather exciting footbridge, and end the day with a visit to the lovely old fishing harbour at Port of Ness
Accommodation: Lewis B&B
DAY 4 - NORTH UIST: BERNERAY (B, L, D)
Time to pack your bags as today we are catching the ferry to the Uists! We start with a drive down to Leverburgh at the southern tip of Harris, where we ill join the queue for the ferry and maybe sample the delights of the Butty Bus, a converted coach that sells drinks and hot sandwich rolls and is something of a Harris institution!
On a fine day the 1 hour ferry ride across the Sound of Harris must be one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world.
After the crossing we will spend the afternoon exploring the gorgeous island of Berneray, with its wonderful mixture of picturesque cottages, flower rich machair meadows and fabulous sandy beaches.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 5 - SOUTH UIST: RUABHAL & HOWMORE (B, L, D)
In the morning we will climb the small hill of Ruabhal in the centre of Benbecula. Although a mere 416ft / 127m high, this little peak provides astonishing views over the unique island of Benbecula - rarely can such a short climb provide such spectacular views! To the west you will see the flat, sandy machair meadows where the island's small population mostly lives. Looking east, however, you will encounter a vast watery landscape quite unlike anywhere else in Britain, where a tangled mosaic of freshwater and sea lochs is interspersed by small pockets of dry land.
In the afternoon we will take the short drive to Howmore in South Uist which, with its thatched cottages, ruined medieval chapels and ancient graveyard, is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric of all the Hebridean villages. Our walk will take us to the picturesque estuary of the Howmore river, along part of the magnificent sandy beach that makes up the entire west coast of South Uist, then back through flower rich machair meadows which are alive with thousands of ground nesting wading birds in the spring and summer.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 6 - BARRA & VATERSAY (B, L, D)
Our final full day in the Hebrides is a long but wonderful day trip to the islands of Barra and Vatersay. We will have an early start then drive down the length of South Uist before taking the ferry from Eriskay to Barra.
Barra has a strong sense of community and packs a lot into a small area. In the morning we will explore the amazing island of Vatersay. Connected these days to Barra by a small causeway, Vatersay has a fascinating history and our walk will take in an iron age fort, the site of a tragic 19th Century shipwreck and some truly stunning beaches (even by Hebridean standards!). At the southern tip of Vatersay we will have unforgettable views to the uninhabited islands at the southern tip of the archipelago: Sandray, Pabay and Mingulay.
In the afternoon we will walk around the peninsula of Eoligarry at the north end of Barra. As well as its superb machair meadows, abundance of corncrakes and fine coastal scenery, this is also the location of the island's unique airport - the only place in Britain where scheduled passenger planes land and take off on the beach. Even if you are utterly disinterested in aviation this is quite a sight, so we will try and time things to watch a landing or departure.
Accommodation: Uist B&B
DAY 7 - DEPART (B)
On the final morning we will pack our bags before catching the ferry from North Uist to Skye and driving back to Inverness. We should arrive back at Inverness train station between 5pm and 6pm, depending on the traffic.
The holiday starts and ends in Inverness. Your guide will meet you at the entrance to Inverness railway station at 2.30pm where you will join the rest of the group for the drive to Skye.
Inverness is easily accessible by plane, train and bus.
Flights
The following airlines offer direct flights to Inverness:
www.loganair.co.uk - Manchester, Birmingham, Belfast, Exeter, Glasgow, Newquay, Southampton.
www.easyjet.com - London Gatwick, London Luton, Bristol, Geneva.
www.britishairways.com - London Heathrow.
www.aerlingus.com - Dublin.
www.klm.com -Amsterdam
Trains
Inverness can be reached by train from Edinburgh, Glasgow and England. Travellers coming from London and the south of England can take advantage of the overnight Caledonian Sleeper service. For more information on train services see the following websites:
www.scotrail.co.uk
www.nationalrail.co.uk
www.thetrainline.com
www.sleeper.scot
Please note that all train tickets should be purchased in advance of travel. We recommend that you do this as soon as you book your holiday as advance tickets are always considerably cheaper than ones bought at the last minute.
Coaches
The following operator offers coach services from Glasgow and Edinburgh to Inverness:
www.citylink.co.uk
Please note that all coach tickets must be purchased in advance of travel. We recommend that you do this as soon as you book your holiday as coaches can get booked up. Advance tickets can also be considerably cheaper than ones bought at the last minute.
Cars
Driving to Inverness by car is straightforward - it is simply a case of heading for Perth then taking the A9 north. Approximate journey times (not including stops, road works or delays) are as follows:
Edinburgh: 3 hours
Glasgow: 3.5 hours
Newcastle: 5.5 hours
Manchester: 6.5 hours
Birmingham: 7.5 hours
Bristol: 8.5 hours
London: 9.5 hours
For secure parking in Inverness we recommend the Highland Council run Rose Street multi storey car park. This is staffed until 10pm each night and is fully covered by CCTV. The cost for a week's parking here is about £57.
Inverness is easily accessible by plane, train and bus.
Flights
The following airlines offer direct flights to Inverness:
www.loganair.co.uk - Manchester, Birmingham, Belfast, Exeter, Glasgow, Newquay, Southampton.
www.easyjet.com - London Gatwick, London Luton, Bristol, Geneva.
www.britishairways.com - London Heathrow.
www.aerlingus.com - Dublin.
www.klm.com -Amsterdam
Trains
Inverness can be reached by train from Edinburgh, Glasgow and England. Travellers coming from London and the south of England can take advantage of the overnight Caledonian Sleeper service. For more information on train services see the following websites:
www.scotrail.co.uk
www.nationalrail.co.uk
www.thetrainline.com
www.sleeper.scot
Please note that all train tickets should be purchased in advance of travel. We recommend that you do this as soon as you book your holiday as advance tickets are always considerably cheaper than ones bought at the last minute.
Coaches
The following operator offers coach services from Glasgow and Edinburgh to Inverness:
www.citylink.co.uk
Please note that all coach tickets must be purchased in advance of travel. We recommend that you do this as soon as you book your holiday as coaches can get booked up. Advance tickets can also be considerably cheaper than ones bought at the last minute.
Cars
Driving to Inverness by car is straightforward - it is simply a case of heading for Perth then taking the A9 north. Approximate journey times (not including stops, road works or delays) are as follows:
Edinburgh: 3 hours
Glasgow: 3.5 hours
Newcastle: 5.5 hours
Manchester: 6.5 hours
Birmingham: 7.5 hours
Bristol: 8.5 hours
London: 9.5 hours
For secure parking in Inverness we recommend the Highland Council run Rose Street multi storey car park. This is staffed until 10pm each night and is fully covered by CCTV. The cost for a week's parking here is about £57.
What's Included: 6 nights accommodation, 5 days walking. Accommodation at local quality B&Bs / guest houses*, with full Scottish or continental breakfasts; packed lunches; evening meals at local restaurants (included meals are detailed in the itinerary).
All transport during the holiday, including collection and drop off in Inverness and all ferry crossings. The services of an experienced walk leader.
Transport is provided by our comfortable, modern minibuses. On transfer days luggage is left in the minibus whilst we go for walks; whilst walking you will only need to bring a small daysack in which to carry your packed lunch, waterproofs, etc.
What's Not Included: Food at any cafes we may visit. Entrance to any visitor attractions. Alcoholic drinks. Travel insurance.
*This holiday involves staying in two separate B&Bs / guest houses (three nights in each). We start off with three nights in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, the attractive little capital of the Outer Hebrides. We follow this with three nights in Benbecula, the central island of the Uists, which acts as an excellent base for exploring these beautiful islands.
We will be staying in carefully selected guest houses. All rooms will have ensuite or private bathrooms. Single occupancy rooms are available at an additional cost of £160.
We may have to split the party up between several guest houses. However, we will be dining together each evening in local restaurants so there will be plenty of opportunities for socialising with the rest of the group.
All transport during the holiday, including collection and drop off in Inverness and all ferry crossings. The services of an experienced walk leader.
Transport is provided by our comfortable, modern minibuses. On transfer days luggage is left in the minibus whilst we go for walks; whilst walking you will only need to bring a small daysack in which to carry your packed lunch, waterproofs, etc.
What's Not Included: Food at any cafes we may visit. Entrance to any visitor attractions. Alcoholic drinks. Travel insurance.
*This holiday involves staying in two separate B&Bs / guest houses (three nights in each). We start off with three nights in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, the attractive little capital of the Outer Hebrides. We follow this with three nights in Benbecula, the central island of the Uists, which acts as an excellent base for exploring these beautiful islands.
We will be staying in carefully selected guest houses. All rooms will have ensuite or private bathrooms. Single occupancy rooms are available at an additional cost of £160.
We may have to split the party up between several guest houses. However, we will be dining together each evening in local restaurants so there will be plenty of opportunities for socialising with the rest of the group.
Easy / Moderate.
These holidays go at a gentle pace, with plenty of time to stop, take pictures, soak up the atmosphere and watch the wildlife. However, they are still walking holidays, so you will need to be able to cope with a reasonable amount of hiking each day. As a guide, you should be able to manage small uphill sections of up to 100m / 300ft at a time, be comfortable walking for 4 - 5 hours and 9 - 11 km / 6 - 7 miles or so each day, and be confident walking away from paths - for example over rough, grassy hillsides.
We try to keep to easy ground as much as possible on these walks, but there will be some areas where the going can be a little rough and quite wet underfoot, so good hiking boots are essential. We don't tackle any big hills on these walks but there are usually some modest uphill sections each day.
See our Grading Information page for more information about how we grade our holidays.
These holidays go at a gentle pace, with plenty of time to stop, take pictures, soak up the atmosphere and watch the wildlife. However, they are still walking holidays, so you will need to be able to cope with a reasonable amount of hiking each day. As a guide, you should be able to manage small uphill sections of up to 100m / 300ft at a time, be comfortable walking for 4 - 5 hours and 9 - 11 km / 6 - 7 miles or so each day, and be confident walking away from paths - for example over rough, grassy hillsides.
We try to keep to easy ground as much as possible on these walks, but there will be some areas where the going can be a little rough and quite wet underfoot, so good hiking boots are essential. We don't tackle any big hills on these walks but there are usually some modest uphill sections each day.
See our Grading Information page for more information about how we grade our holidays.
The following reviews are taken from the Hidden Hebrides page on TripAdvisor: Too see reviews of all our holidays click here.
A.H. (Bath, England)
We had a wonderful week walking in the Outer Hebrides. Our guide Isi was brilliant. She looked after us magnificently and gave us all the time we needed to examine the wildflowers and see the wildlife. Where she was not sure of what we were seeing she bothered to look it up for us but she was very well informed. She tailored our days to the weather but there was always something interesting to do.
The B&Bs we stayed in were excellent and the resaurants we went to in the evenings had great food. What more can you want on top of the beauty and wildness of the islands. A breath of fresh air.
S.J. (Mold, Wales)
Just returned from a fantastic walking holiday run by "Hidden Hebrides". This was their "Highlights. of the Outer Hebrides" week which was a marvellous introduction to these beautiful islands. Our very friendly group of 8 were led by John who gave us some very interesting information about the people, places, history and wildlife of the islands and took us on great walks at an easy pace. We stayed in excellent B&B s and met up for our evening meals which were very good. The holiday was well organised, I cannot fault it and would certainly go on another.
M.O. (Kelso, Scotland)
A small group of travellers with a lively, knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide is the perfect way to explore these islands. Despite very mixed weather we walked, explored and dined out daily sampling the unique culture and products - sea food to die for! Be prepared to step back 50 years with very quiet Sundays and some unrefined B&Bs but the perfect planning and thoughtful arrangements of Hidden Hebrides more than compensated. A great trip!
M.G. (London)
We had a delightful and relaxing week in the Outer Hebrides.It was extremely well organised and superbly led, with a very knowledgeable, capable and friendly leader. It was nice being in a small group, with just 7 of us. There was quite a lot of travelling,but this was interesting with changing scenery and was mixed with lovely walks, and it was good to see the Outer Hebrides from top to bottom. The ferry ride from Barra to Oban was one of the highlights.
P.D. (Devon, England)
Just returned from an excellent week in the Outer Hebrides. The website explained the itinerary very well, our leader was delightful and a thoroughly enjoyable week, even though the weather was mixed. B&B for 2 nights each on Lewis, North Uist and Barra all good, clean and friendly with good breakfasts to start the day. The walks showed off the beauty of the islands, were a delight with our group of 7 + guide/driver.
All in all a lovely, enjoyable week with in our case a couple of days at each end added on in Inverness and Glasgow. Recommend ending the holiday by flying from a beach in Barra to Glasgow, a real experience and I gather the only scheduled beach takeoff anywhere.
J.R. (Bristol, England)
From the moment we were picked up in Inverness we were in good hands. Our group of 8 (all solo travellers) fitted comfortably into Mick’s modern minibus.
The journey to Ullapool is taken at an easy pace with time for a short riverside walk in beautiful surroundings before reaching the port.
Once in Stornaway we were handed over to Isi who capably looked after us for the rest of the trip, answering questions on history, wildlife and everything about island life.
The weather was superb and that added to the breathtaking scenery.
This trip is great way to see the Hebrides from top to bottom, with plenty of time spent walking outdoors.
S.W. (Margaret River, Australia)
As a solo traveller from Australia I can highly recommend this wonderful walking experience. If you like the idea of a small group, breath taking scenery and B & B accommodation, while you put one foot in front of the other - then treat yourself to this walk of the Outer Hebrides. Mick couldn't have been more helpful with any questions I had as I began planning my trip, and Isi our Guide, with her enthusiasm and knowledge saw to it that we got the most out of every day. A memorable experience for all the right reasons. Am already keen to join them again in the future on a Shetland Isles walk but meantime I'm now inspired to do some hiking closer to home. Thanks All :)
J.S. (Sacramento, USA)
This tour starting north, on the Isle of Lewis, and traveling south to Barra, the southernmost island, over 7 days, included lots of walking, endless and mostly empty beaches, learning about the history and archeology of the outer Hebrides, eating lots of delicious food (especially seafood) and staying in lovely B&Bs. We had exceptional weather for walking in these beautiful islands and left most of our warm and waterproof clothing in our bags, though I used rather more sunscreen than I expected to. Seeing the range of landscapes on the islands, the archeological sites and the glorious beaches (complete with otter!) far exceeded our expectations. John did a great job of guiding and of balancing the needs of our somewhat quirky group of 8 friends. We also appreciated the behind the scenes work of Mick and his team that made everything appear seamlessly organized. It was an outstanding experience and we are already planning our next trip with the company for 2020.
T.L. (Ohio, USA)
So grateful my friends convinced me to go on this trip. I have already started contemplating on returning to this magical area. The knowledge and expertise of our guides, Mick and Eilidh were "spot on" in explaining any and all of our questions regarding landscape, birds, flowers etc. The beauty and vastness of the land, the culture, the people, the food made this trip so enjoyable. My friends and I were joined with five other women, who we bonded with almost instantly. I have no doubt that our alignment with these women was meant to be. Did I mention that we all love to sing? Where do I start in explaining our guide Eilidh, who was not only knowledgeable of the land and able to answer any and all of our questions, but empathetic and compassionate to each individual's needs. Thank you Eilidh for your friendship. Looking forward to returning.
M.G. (Wisconsin, USA)
This was a wonderful experience with Hidden Hebrides guide Eilidh McCleod. Eilidh was kind, attentive, knowledgeable, and so much fun. Born and raised on Lewis, she knew the history, animals, and plants of the islands, and led us through unbelievably beautiful and unspoiled landscapes and beaches. She was sensitive and understanding of individual needs and interests. Our accommodations were outstanding. We stayed at B&Bs and were welcomed with kindness and great food. We had dinner at local restaurants and the food was delicious! Still thinking about the fried duck and crab salad! My 7 traveling companions were flexible, so interesting, and fun. We quickly became friends. I miss them and Scotland already! Would love to take another trip with Hidden Hebrides!
P.G. (Maine, USA)
I was on a small group walking tour with 8 women and the best guide in the world Eilidh MacLeod. I learned so much about the Outer Hebrides and had a fun time. Eilidh knew information about the flowers, animals, beaches, walking paths etc. The scenery was exceptional and I was surprised how much planning went into our gourmet meals. We ate at so many fabulous restaurants/ Everything was "spot on....and well done" as they say in Scotland. I highly recommend this tour company. Mick Blunt, the owner was great, answered all of my questions before I departed for Scotland. The price was reasonable for all that was included. I can't say enough to describe the efficiency, kindness and humor provided by Hidden Hebrides Tours.
S.G. (Paris, France)
Just back to France from a week in the Outer Hebrides. We were a group of 6 with John our guide (2 French and 2 British women, 1 Belgian man). The group matched at once and we had fun. Everything was perfect : the scenery, the walks, the food, the B&B's under the guidance of John (also our driver). A lot of wind, little rain, We just had to keep our eyes wide open (and watch our feet!) and enjoy. Thank you to Mick and John for their knowledge of the islands and their concern to make our stay as nice as possible! We recommend it!
B.S. (Lancashire, UK)
A wonderful week with guide John Groom. Best beaches, wildlife, flora and fauna, history, breathtaking views around every corner and John's knowledge of the history and hidden places made the walking holiday perfect. Military precision and perfect planning meant everything ran to plan- thanks Mick. Choice of B&Bs of a very high standard by Mick and John's favourite eating places made the holiday very special. Already thinking about 2018! Would not hesitate to book again.
T.W. (Herfordshire, UK)
This walking holiday which incorporated visiting most of the inhabited islands of the Outer Hebrides including Lewis, Harris, North Uist, South Uist and Barra was a great introduction to the life and culture of these amazing islands. I take my hat off to Mick, our guide who had an in depth knowledge of the islands through having lived and worked there for a number of years . Mick led us on some fantastic hillside coastal walks to areas we would never have dreamed of going ourselves as they were only accessible by foot.
We had a well balanced and friendly group of 8 lovely people from different nationalities and all walks of life all of whom wanted to obtain a bird's eye perspective of the islands.
I was even able to do a bit of research on some of my ancestors who came from here.
I would certainly recommend this type of holiday to people who want an activity holiday which will enable them to learn a lot about its culture, history, wildlife and fauna.
I'm now planning my next holiday with Hidden Hebrides next year!
C.H. (Devon, UK)
Fresh areas (a new island visit every day), fresh food (a different restaurant with fresh food every evening), fresh outlook (Mick has so much knowledge of wildlife, rock strata, history, fauna..), fresh air (those ferries booked for us every day! to a different island of the Orkneys), fresh sites (neolithic to Viking history Mick gave us an original view). An excellent group holiday with 8 people from all over England with every aspect covered!
C.H. (Devon, UK)
I have just returned from this holiday and absolutely could not fault it. From picking us up at Stornaway airport to leaving us to fly from Barra beach a week later, the organisation was superb. Mick is a wonderful guide - passionate about his beautiful islands, extremely knowledgable about their history, flora & fauna, a safe driver and a thoroughly nice person. The B&Bs were comfortable and the hearty breakfasts memorable! Rarely have I enjoyed a holiday more. I can strongly recommend it.
E.R. (Greenock, UK)
We were a group of eight from all over the UK. We had a wonderful time in amazing scenery and true Highland/Island hospitality. Guest houses, food, walks and Mick's love of the islands came through every day. His wealth of knowledge of the history, flora and fauna was just lovely. I learned a great deal and had wonderful walks covering eleven islands in all. Although I am Scottish and Mick English, he knew far more about the history of the area than I do, plus every island, mountain, area, he knew. Outer Hebrides will see me next year hopefully.
D.W. (Devon, UK)
A great holiday that lived up to my expectations. Mick is a genuine person with a huge knowledge of the birds, plants and Hebridian social history. He took us on varied walks to a mix of locations, all offering special views and experiences. We hardy met a soul and it really did feel like the Hidden Hebrides
S.W. (Sussex, UK)
Mick Blunt is a passionate and extremely knowledgeable guide. In spite of some rain he made the week of walks from north to south of the Outer Hebrides an unforgettable experience. For me it has been a long-held dream to visit this spectacularly beautiful place - the week exceeded all my expectations. I cannot recommend highly enough this trip.
From the Hidden Hebrides Facebook page:
L.M. (Bristol, UK)
This was a holiday company that was with me every step of the way excuse the pun from the deposit to being dropped back at the Premier Inn East in Inverness. The walks were beautiful without being too long or too short, the restaurants and the accommodation were to a very high standard without being posh and run by friendly people. John Groom, the guide was also friendly, unflappable and a gentleman without being intrusive on the group. I made good friends on this holiday and now have friends and acquaintances who want to visit the Outer Hebrides.
A.H. (Bath, England)
We had a wonderful week walking in the Outer Hebrides. Our guide Isi was brilliant. She looked after us magnificently and gave us all the time we needed to examine the wildflowers and see the wildlife. Where she was not sure of what we were seeing she bothered to look it up for us but she was very well informed. She tailored our days to the weather but there was always something interesting to do.
The B&Bs we stayed in were excellent and the resaurants we went to in the evenings had great food. What more can you want on top of the beauty and wildness of the islands. A breath of fresh air.
S.J. (Mold, Wales)
Just returned from a fantastic walking holiday run by "Hidden Hebrides". This was their "Highlights. of the Outer Hebrides" week which was a marvellous introduction to these beautiful islands. Our very friendly group of 8 were led by John who gave us some very interesting information about the people, places, history and wildlife of the islands and took us on great walks at an easy pace. We stayed in excellent B&B s and met up for our evening meals which were very good. The holiday was well organised, I cannot fault it and would certainly go on another.
M.O. (Kelso, Scotland)
A small group of travellers with a lively, knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide is the perfect way to explore these islands. Despite very mixed weather we walked, explored and dined out daily sampling the unique culture and products - sea food to die for! Be prepared to step back 50 years with very quiet Sundays and some unrefined B&Bs but the perfect planning and thoughtful arrangements of Hidden Hebrides more than compensated. A great trip!
M.G. (London)
We had a delightful and relaxing week in the Outer Hebrides.It was extremely well organised and superbly led, with a very knowledgeable, capable and friendly leader. It was nice being in a small group, with just 7 of us. There was quite a lot of travelling,but this was interesting with changing scenery and was mixed with lovely walks, and it was good to see the Outer Hebrides from top to bottom. The ferry ride from Barra to Oban was one of the highlights.
P.D. (Devon, England)
Just returned from an excellent week in the Outer Hebrides. The website explained the itinerary very well, our leader was delightful and a thoroughly enjoyable week, even though the weather was mixed. B&B for 2 nights each on Lewis, North Uist and Barra all good, clean and friendly with good breakfasts to start the day. The walks showed off the beauty of the islands, were a delight with our group of 7 + guide/driver.
All in all a lovely, enjoyable week with in our case a couple of days at each end added on in Inverness and Glasgow. Recommend ending the holiday by flying from a beach in Barra to Glasgow, a real experience and I gather the only scheduled beach takeoff anywhere.
J.R. (Bristol, England)
From the moment we were picked up in Inverness we were in good hands. Our group of 8 (all solo travellers) fitted comfortably into Mick’s modern minibus.
The journey to Ullapool is taken at an easy pace with time for a short riverside walk in beautiful surroundings before reaching the port.
Once in Stornaway we were handed over to Isi who capably looked after us for the rest of the trip, answering questions on history, wildlife and everything about island life.
The weather was superb and that added to the breathtaking scenery.
This trip is great way to see the Hebrides from top to bottom, with plenty of time spent walking outdoors.
S.W. (Margaret River, Australia)
As a solo traveller from Australia I can highly recommend this wonderful walking experience. If you like the idea of a small group, breath taking scenery and B & B accommodation, while you put one foot in front of the other - then treat yourself to this walk of the Outer Hebrides. Mick couldn't have been more helpful with any questions I had as I began planning my trip, and Isi our Guide, with her enthusiasm and knowledge saw to it that we got the most out of every day. A memorable experience for all the right reasons. Am already keen to join them again in the future on a Shetland Isles walk but meantime I'm now inspired to do some hiking closer to home. Thanks All :)
J.S. (Sacramento, USA)
This tour starting north, on the Isle of Lewis, and traveling south to Barra, the southernmost island, over 7 days, included lots of walking, endless and mostly empty beaches, learning about the history and archeology of the outer Hebrides, eating lots of delicious food (especially seafood) and staying in lovely B&Bs. We had exceptional weather for walking in these beautiful islands and left most of our warm and waterproof clothing in our bags, though I used rather more sunscreen than I expected to. Seeing the range of landscapes on the islands, the archeological sites and the glorious beaches (complete with otter!) far exceeded our expectations. John did a great job of guiding and of balancing the needs of our somewhat quirky group of 8 friends. We also appreciated the behind the scenes work of Mick and his team that made everything appear seamlessly organized. It was an outstanding experience and we are already planning our next trip with the company for 2020.
T.L. (Ohio, USA)
So grateful my friends convinced me to go on this trip. I have already started contemplating on returning to this magical area. The knowledge and expertise of our guides, Mick and Eilidh were "spot on" in explaining any and all of our questions regarding landscape, birds, flowers etc. The beauty and vastness of the land, the culture, the people, the food made this trip so enjoyable. My friends and I were joined with five other women, who we bonded with almost instantly. I have no doubt that our alignment with these women was meant to be. Did I mention that we all love to sing? Where do I start in explaining our guide Eilidh, who was not only knowledgeable of the land and able to answer any and all of our questions, but empathetic and compassionate to each individual's needs. Thank you Eilidh for your friendship. Looking forward to returning.
M.G. (Wisconsin, USA)
This was a wonderful experience with Hidden Hebrides guide Eilidh McCleod. Eilidh was kind, attentive, knowledgeable, and so much fun. Born and raised on Lewis, she knew the history, animals, and plants of the islands, and led us through unbelievably beautiful and unspoiled landscapes and beaches. She was sensitive and understanding of individual needs and interests. Our accommodations were outstanding. We stayed at B&Bs and were welcomed with kindness and great food. We had dinner at local restaurants and the food was delicious! Still thinking about the fried duck and crab salad! My 7 traveling companions were flexible, so interesting, and fun. We quickly became friends. I miss them and Scotland already! Would love to take another trip with Hidden Hebrides!
P.G. (Maine, USA)
I was on a small group walking tour with 8 women and the best guide in the world Eilidh MacLeod. I learned so much about the Outer Hebrides and had a fun time. Eilidh knew information about the flowers, animals, beaches, walking paths etc. The scenery was exceptional and I was surprised how much planning went into our gourmet meals. We ate at so many fabulous restaurants/ Everything was "spot on....and well done" as they say in Scotland. I highly recommend this tour company. Mick Blunt, the owner was great, answered all of my questions before I departed for Scotland. The price was reasonable for all that was included. I can't say enough to describe the efficiency, kindness and humor provided by Hidden Hebrides Tours.
S.G. (Paris, France)
Just back to France from a week in the Outer Hebrides. We were a group of 6 with John our guide (2 French and 2 British women, 1 Belgian man). The group matched at once and we had fun. Everything was perfect : the scenery, the walks, the food, the B&B's under the guidance of John (also our driver). A lot of wind, little rain, We just had to keep our eyes wide open (and watch our feet!) and enjoy. Thank you to Mick and John for their knowledge of the islands and their concern to make our stay as nice as possible! We recommend it!
B.S. (Lancashire, UK)
A wonderful week with guide John Groom. Best beaches, wildlife, flora and fauna, history, breathtaking views around every corner and John's knowledge of the history and hidden places made the walking holiday perfect. Military precision and perfect planning meant everything ran to plan- thanks Mick. Choice of B&Bs of a very high standard by Mick and John's favourite eating places made the holiday very special. Already thinking about 2018! Would not hesitate to book again.
T.W. (Herfordshire, UK)
This walking holiday which incorporated visiting most of the inhabited islands of the Outer Hebrides including Lewis, Harris, North Uist, South Uist and Barra was a great introduction to the life and culture of these amazing islands. I take my hat off to Mick, our guide who had an in depth knowledge of the islands through having lived and worked there for a number of years . Mick led us on some fantastic hillside coastal walks to areas we would never have dreamed of going ourselves as they were only accessible by foot.
We had a well balanced and friendly group of 8 lovely people from different nationalities and all walks of life all of whom wanted to obtain a bird's eye perspective of the islands.
I was even able to do a bit of research on some of my ancestors who came from here.
I would certainly recommend this type of holiday to people who want an activity holiday which will enable them to learn a lot about its culture, history, wildlife and fauna.
I'm now planning my next holiday with Hidden Hebrides next year!
C.H. (Devon, UK)
Fresh areas (a new island visit every day), fresh food (a different restaurant with fresh food every evening), fresh outlook (Mick has so much knowledge of wildlife, rock strata, history, fauna..), fresh air (those ferries booked for us every day! to a different island of the Orkneys), fresh sites (neolithic to Viking history Mick gave us an original view). An excellent group holiday with 8 people from all over England with every aspect covered!
C.H. (Devon, UK)
I have just returned from this holiday and absolutely could not fault it. From picking us up at Stornaway airport to leaving us to fly from Barra beach a week later, the organisation was superb. Mick is a wonderful guide - passionate about his beautiful islands, extremely knowledgable about their history, flora & fauna, a safe driver and a thoroughly nice person. The B&Bs were comfortable and the hearty breakfasts memorable! Rarely have I enjoyed a holiday more. I can strongly recommend it.
E.R. (Greenock, UK)
We were a group of eight from all over the UK. We had a wonderful time in amazing scenery and true Highland/Island hospitality. Guest houses, food, walks and Mick's love of the islands came through every day. His wealth of knowledge of the history, flora and fauna was just lovely. I learned a great deal and had wonderful walks covering eleven islands in all. Although I am Scottish and Mick English, he knew far more about the history of the area than I do, plus every island, mountain, area, he knew. Outer Hebrides will see me next year hopefully.
D.W. (Devon, UK)
A great holiday that lived up to my expectations. Mick is a genuine person with a huge knowledge of the birds, plants and Hebridian social history. He took us on varied walks to a mix of locations, all offering special views and experiences. We hardy met a soul and it really did feel like the Hidden Hebrides
S.W. (Sussex, UK)
Mick Blunt is a passionate and extremely knowledgeable guide. In spite of some rain he made the week of walks from north to south of the Outer Hebrides an unforgettable experience. For me it has been a long-held dream to visit this spectacularly beautiful place - the week exceeded all my expectations. I cannot recommend highly enough this trip.
From the Hidden Hebrides Facebook page:
L.M. (Bristol, UK)
This was a holiday company that was with me every step of the way excuse the pun from the deposit to being dropped back at the Premier Inn East in Inverness. The walks were beautiful without being too long or too short, the restaurants and the accommodation were to a very high standard without being posh and run by friendly people. John Groom, the guide was also friendly, unflappable and a gentleman without being intrusive on the group. I made good friends on this holiday and now have friends and acquaintances who want to visit the Outer Hebrides.