Walking in the Outer Hebrides

If you are thinking of taking a walking holiday in the Outer Hebrides you will really be spoiled for choice when it comes to hiking trails in the Western Isles.

Fans of the outdoors will find that Outer Hebrides walking breaks offer great opportunities to explore the unique identity of these Scottish islands, with walks in the Western Isles providing visitors with the chance to get close to the nature, environment, history and heritage of our islands.

Travellers choosing to go hiking in the Outer Hebrides can choose from a wide range of walking routes in the Western Isles – each of which offers its own insight in the isles.

For those who take their walking seriously, there is the option of walking the length of the Western Isles along the Hebridean Way, the long distance-walking route which stretches from Vatersay to Stornoway in Lewis.

Choose coastal walks around the Outer Hebrides to understand the isolation of these island communities, climb to the summit of the highest-point on any of the islands or opt for Western Isles wildlife walks, such as hiking through the Hebrides nature reserves or walks to spot eagles, deer and other exciting island inhabitants.

Whether you are looking for leisurely strolls along island beaches, or challenging hikes through rugged mountain terrain, walking on Lewis, Harris, Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist, Eriskay, Barra and Vatersay offers a chance to really connect with the spirit of the islands.

Choose to plan an independent walking trip to the Western Isles, or make use of one of the Outer Hebrides walking guides at Hidden Hebrides offering accompanied walks and tours on our islands.

Ticks and Midges

Infected ticks can cause Lymes disease so it is important that you check for ticks following a trip outdoors.  Ticks are often found in the heather or long grass. Dress appropriately to avoid them hitching a lift!

Do:

• Cover your arms and wear long trousers
• Make sure your trousers are tucked into your socks
• Wear inspect repellent
• Check yourself for ticks after being outdoors, paricularly if you have been walking or camping 

Further advice can be found here. 

Midges are more prevalent in summer and come out when there is warm still weather. However as we often have a breeze, they are not so widespread as some areas of Scotland.  Wear repellent and they will be less likely to bother you!

Downloadable Leaflets

We have a range of free walking leaflets you can download, They include short day walks and the Hebridean Way long distance walking route.  Please note, you will need Adobe Reader (free PDF software) installed to download the leaflets.