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How to visit Scotland’s islands

Looking to explore Scotland beyond the mainland?

Island hopping is one of the most best ways to travel in Scotland, from easy ferry hops close to the coast to remote island chains shaped by Atlantic weather, wildlife and history.

Whether you’re planning a short island break, a multi-island adventure, or simply looking for inspiration, my island hopping guides will help you plan your perfect route.

Here you will find all my island guides for Scotland here, with posts covering individual islands, island groups, and sample itineraries to help you plan your trip.

Callanish Standing Stones. Credit: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Lewis and Harris: what not to miss in the Outer Hebrides

Lewis and Harris. One island which together make for one of the most remarkable places you can visit…

Isle of Islay Scotland travel guide – things to do & tips

Discover the Isle of Islay, Scotland – from whisky distilleries and wild beaches to travel tips, where to…

The Fairy Pools, Skye, Credit VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Is the Isle of Skye overhyped?

Is the Isle of Skye overhyped? An honest look at what Skye gets right, where it falls short,…

How to explore the Elgol Peninsula, Skye

The Isle of Skye’s dramatic Cuillin mountain range dominates the misty isles’ skyline wherever you look – and…

5000 years of history: how to visit Orkney

Visit Orkney – with stone-age villages and huge seascapes, a trip to Orkney in north-east Scotland is a…

best places to visit in Scotland

How to visit: Outer Hebrides

A visit to the Outer Hebrides makes for an incredible adventure playground where you can go horse riding…

Isle of Arran

How to visit: the Isle of Arran

Located in the Firth of Clyde, the Isle of Arran is one of Scotland’s most accessible islands which…

The best Scottish Islands to visit – from Skye to Orkney

From the Isle of Skye to the beautiful Isle of Barra, here the best islands to visit in…

Scotland travel blog

How to visit the Isle of Mull

From climbing a Munro, staying in the pretty town of Tobermory, to one of Scotland’s best beaches here…

The complete guide to the Isle of Skye

My complete guide to things to do on the Isle of Skye – where to stay and what…