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:
- Island hopping routes and ideas – from simple two-island trips to longer journeys linking multiple islands by ferry, causeway or flight.
- Detailed island guides – including how to get there, ferry crossings, day trip options, and what makes each island unique.
You’ll find all my island guides for Scotland here, with posts covering individual islands, island groups, and sample itineraries to help you plan your trip.
My Island hopping in Scotland guides
The ultimate Scottish island hopping guide: 50+ islands & how to visit
From the Inner Hebrides to Shetland, plan your Scottish island hopping adventure with 50+ islands, routes and itineraries.
How to ferry hop the Hebridean Islands
Step off a ferry onto one of Scotland’s Hebridean islands and you will be hit with an undeniable sense of otherworldliness. Here’s my guide to going ferry hopping in the Hebrides.
The best Scottish Islands to visit
From the Isle of Skye to the beautiful Isle of Barra, here the best islands to visit in Scotland.
Scottish Island Guides
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 stay, and the best things to do.
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 makes it perfect for a weekend away.
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 to see on this beautiful island.
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 dip into 5000 years of history.
How to visit: Outer Hebrides
A visit to the Outer Hebrides makes for an incredible adventure playground where you can go horse riding on stunning beaches on South Uist, kayaking around a castle on Barra, and mountain biking in the mountains of Harris.
How to visit Handa Island – a west coast paradise
Just off the remote north-west coast of Scotland lies Handa, one of Scotland’s most beautiful islands and a nationally important wildlife reserve. Here’s how to visit the paradise of Handa Island.
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 are my favourite things to do on the Isle of Mull, Scotland.