Whether traveling with your family or on a getaway for two, the string of islands off Scotland’s western coast offers enough attractions to easily fill a vacation. Romantic castles, mysterious prehistoric sites and the abundant natural beauty are three of them. Getting around is easy on Caledonian MacBrayne ferries, and the scenic rides along the coast add to the fun of island hopping.
Castles
The best-known castle is on the Isle of Mull, where you can tour Duart Castle, standing on a rocky cliff overlooking the sea. Two other castles, Moy and Torosay, are also on the Isle of Mull. The best known on the Isle of Skye are Dunvegan Castle, home of the MacLeod Clan, and Armadale Castle, with its visitor center for the Donald Clan. While on Skye, you can also see Duntulm Castle and Knock Castle.
A castle tour on the Isle of Barra will take you to Kisimul Castle and Sinclair Castle, and on the Isle of Harris, you can stay overnight in in Amhuinnsuide Castle or Adrvourlie Castle.
Prehistoric Sites
One of Britain’s best Stone Age sites is on the Isle of Lewis. The Calanais Standing Stones are older than Stonehenge, erected 5,000 years ago and an important place for rituals for at least 2,000 years. You can actually walk around among these magnificent megaliths and ponder their history. More than 20 prehistoric stone tomb sites are on the island of North Uist, the best at Langass and Carinish.
Nature and Scenery
The wild landscapes; long, white-sand beaches; and rich bird life bring walkers, birders and photographers to the Hebrides, where its craggy cliffs and steep islets are home to dozens of sea bird species. For avid birders and anyone who wants to experience all the Hebrides have to offer, a cruise on Hebridean Princess is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can choose itineraries to fit your own interests, from birds to history, and get a memorable sampling of Scottish culture, hospitality and its incomparable local seafood in a week’s all-inclusive vacation.
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