Island hopping in Scotland
Hop aboard a ferry and discover Scotland’s islands. You will experience a warm welcome as you explore endless stretches of golden sandy beaches, friendly island communities and charming fishing towns; Scotland’s islands have it all.
As you travel between the islands you will uncover a diverse range of unique cultures. Outstanding scenery combines with extraordinary wildlife, delicious food and drink, modern music and dance. You will also encounter a wide range of dialects and Gaelic is spoken on several of the islands (though English is spoken throughout).
The islands are normally categorized into five main groups: Orkney, Shetland, the Outer Hebrides, the Inner Hebrides and the Islands of the Clyde. With over 700 diverse islands scattered around Scotland and so many things to do, the question is, which islands are for you?
Shetland
Shetland is a stunning archipelago of more than 100 islands in the very north of Scotland. Voted one of the world’s top 10 tourist sites by Lonely Planet, discover dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches along more than a thousand miles of coastline. Life in Shetland is shaped by a unique blend of Scandinavian and Scottish culture, which the islanders celebrate with a range of fantastic events and festivals held throughout the year such as Up Helly Aa, Europe’s largest fire festival.
Orkney
The magnificent Orkney islands sit only a few miles north of the Scottish mainland. In total there are around 70 islands of various sizes, 19 of which are currently inhabited. The majority of the Orcadian population live on the Orkney mainland which is 25 miles across and is home to the capital, Kirkwall. The Orkney islands provide you with the perfect chance to breathe some fresh air and discover 5,000 years of history all within a truly spectacular setting. The West Mainland is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Heart of Neolithic Orkney - where you can step into history and see the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe and Skara Brae.
The Outer Hebrides
Sitting on the edge of Europe, 30 miles off the west coast of Scotland lie the Outer Hebrides. An idyllic archipelago set in the Atlantic Ocean that boasts more than 200 islands, the Outer Hebrides is home to a number of white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, dark moorlands, magnificent wildlife and epic mountains.
The Inner Hebrides
Still on the west coast of Scotland, but closer to the mainland you will find the Inner Hebrides. Each of the 79 islands has a unique character and is rich in history and heritage. Taste some of the world's finest single malt whiskies on Islay or play a round of golf with a view of the island bays. Island hopping to the Inner Hebrides is made easy with daily ferry crossings; you could find yourself playing island hopscotch around the Hebrides in no time.
Handa Island
Summertime on Handa Island hosts over 100,000 sea birds gather to breed, including guillemot, razorbills and puffins. With a stunning coastline and easy access by ferry, Handa Island is a must visit for bird lovers
Islands of the Clyde
The Islands of the Clyde combine to make up the fifth largest island group in Scotland. Situated on the Firth of Clyde, south of the Inner Hebrides, you can discover around 40 fantastic islands and skerries. The Islands of the Clyde are all perfect island escapes, yet are so close to the vibrant city of Glasgow.
Arran
The Isle of Arran is nicknamed ‘Scotland in Miniature’, one of Scotland’s most beautiful islands and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with great walking trails and 7 golf courses!
Bute
The Isle of Bute boasts the charming town of Rothesay and Cumbrae is home to the delightful Cathedral of the Isles, the smallest cathedral in Europe.
