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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:
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.
The Ranger Service works with the local community and visitors to increase awareness and understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of North Harris. It does this through a regular guided…
Number of results: 39
, currently showing 1 to 18.
Isle of Harris
The Ranger Service works with the local community and visitors to increase awareness and understanding of the natural and cultural heritage of North Harris. It does this through a regular guided walks during the summer as well as bespoke outdoor activities.
Isle of Lewis
Discover the iconic Callanish Standing Stones (Calanais I), Cnoc Ceann a’ Gharraidh standing stones (Calanais II) and Cnoc Fhillibhir standing stones (Calanais III). A short 2 mile walk - allow a couple of hours.
Isle Of Lewis
A short walk of 4km (2 miles) across rough ground to an abandoned village on the north shore of Loch Sealg - allow 2 hours.
Isle of Lewis
A circular walk of 5.5.km (3.5 miles) that starts and finishes at the Eoropie Playpark - 2 hours
Isle of Benbecula
This is an good short walk, roughly about 2 miles there and back. It is where Bonnie Prince Charlie, returning from a failed escape bid from Stornoway, hid in a little hut.
Isle of North Uist
A 10 mile hike up North Lee - around 4-5 hours
Isle Of Scalpay
A circular walk of 13km (8miles) around Scalpay and Eilean Glas lighthouse - 4 hours.
Isle Of Lewis
A waymarked route of 22km (14 miles) along the dramatic North East coast of Lewis with lots of antiquites, wildlife and distant views of the mainland mountains across The Minch - 7-8 hours.
Isle Of South Uist
Easy Walk which takes around an hour.
Isle Of North Uist
There is a walking trail through the woodlands and is a great way to enjoy the wildlife and trees.
Isle of North Uist
A walk with a difference - you can walk through the centuries with a walking tour App. The walk is 7 miles and will take around 3 hours.
Isle Of South Uist
A great walk, taking in some stunning scenery and history. Moderate walk. Allow 3 Hours. 8.5kilometers/5.25miles.Keep a look out for the Eriskay Ponies.
Isle of Barra
© Copyright Becky Williamson and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
The short walk round the bay has excellent displays, telling the story of the herring industry on Barra. The bay was once filled with so many fishing boats that it was possible to walk across the bay, boat to boat, without getting your feet wet.
Isle Of Lewis
An ascent of Suaineabhal with excellent views over Uig Bay and beyond. The route is approximately 9km (5 miles) but is difficult terrain so allow 4-5 hours
Isle Of Harris
A short walk up 2km of gravelled track to the North Harris Eagle Observatory, which is consider to be the best location for viewing these magnificent birds - allow 30 minutes each way for the walk.
Isle of South UIst
A difficult walk requiring a good level of fitness
Isle of Barra
This is an established trail with way-marker posts. It has a combination of cultural and natural heritage which gives a great insight to the island’s past and present. It has also some truly spectacular scenery. 2.5 miles, 2 - 3 hours
Isle Of Lewis
An easy walk of 6km (4 miles) around Tolsta Head with lots of opportunity for wildlife watching - allow 3 hours.
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