Hebrides (Inner)

Whichever islands you choose to visit, you can be sure to feel a world apart from mainland Great Britain.

Katie Featherstone, author of Inner Hebrides

Splintering off Scotland’s west coast, the Inner Hebrides is a loosely scattered archipelago that includes all the islands from Skye in the north to Islay and Gigha in the south; they stretch as far west as Tiree and cut into the mainland to the east, with Lismore and Kerrera sitting in the Firth of Lorn.

Surrounded by miles of intricate coastline, with vast swathes of wilderness inland, the Inner Hebrides is a haven for wildlife and a particularly important habitat for coastal birds and marine mammals. Sightings of seals are almost guaranteed, while even luckier or more patient visitors have a chance to spot otters, basking sharks and even minke whales.

With Scotland’s ‘right to roam’, well-prepared hikers have infinite possibilities on the islands. Large areas of each map remain uninhabited and there is a high likelihood of being able to enjoy Mull’s dramatic rock formations or Jura’s Paps without the interruption of another person in sight.

The islands’ modern-day charms and gentle demeanour give little indication of their turbulent past: Irish monks and Viking invasions, the creation of the Lords of the Isles’ kingdom and subsequent clan warfare. These long-lost civilisations left behind ruined castles, intricate carvings and crumbling chapels, sprinkling the islands with fascinating archaeology.

Articles about Inner Hebrides

The wildlife wonders of the Inner Hebrides

For those who brave the elements, autumn and winter is a magnificent time when it comes to wildlife on these windswept islands.

Mark and co 1989 New Zealand

Short tales on long trips: an unexpected reunion

Friends reunited!

The Isle of Skye is the limit

There’s something special in the soil in the Inner Hebrides.

The best walking trails in the Inner Hebrides

From idyllic waterfalls to panoramic mountain views, these islands have plenty to offer both the amateur and the ambitious.

A tour of Islay’s whisky distilleries

The Scottish island is renowned across the globe for its drams.

Introducing Walkhighlands: Scotland’s free walking resource

In this interview, Walkhighlands founder Helen Webster shares her expertise from over a decade spent exploring Scotland’s Inner Hebrides.