Scotland boasts an incredible number of islands scattered around the mainland. There are over 790 in total, with 93 inhabited. These islands are spread across four main archipelagos: the Inner Hebrides, the Outer Hebrides, the Orkney Islands, and the Shetland Islands. Some are famed for their rugged mountain scenery, others for their ancient archaeological sites, and many for their warm, welcoming communities.
For those looking to experience the very best of Scotland’s islands, a few stand out as must-visit destinations. Here, we take a closer look at three of the finest: the Isle of Skye, the Orkney Islands, and the Isle of Lewis. All three feature in our luxury private Scotland multi-day tours, and when we craft bespoke tours of Scotland tailored around individual needs, these islands are among the most requested experiences.
Scroll down to discover more about our picks for the best Scottish islands to visit. And if you have any questions for the Discreet Scotland team, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Isle of Skye: The Misty Isle of Legends and Landscapes
Isle of Skye Location and Getting There
The Isle of Skye, the largest of the Inner Hebrides, is easily accessible from the mainland via the Skye Bridge or by ferry from Mallaig. It’s a comfortable drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow, making it a perfect island escape on a multi-day tour of Scotland.
Famous Skye Landmarks
Skye’s dramatic landscapes are world-renowned. The Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation, is one of the island’s most iconic sights while the Quiraing, a spectacular landslip, offers some of the most breathtaking views in Scotland. Meanwhile, the Fairy Pools, with their crystal-clear waters, attract visitors looking to experience the island’s enchanting beauty.
Cultural and Historical Highlights on the Isle of Skye
Steeped in legend, Skye is home to Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. The island also played a key role in Jacobite history — after defeat at the Battle of Culloden, Flora MacDonald famously helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape to Skye. They landed on the shore below Monkstadt House at Rudha Phrionnsa (Prince’s Point).
If you want to explore more Scottish history like this while you’re visiting our country, nearby Glenfinnan, on the mainland and another popular destination on our luxury multi-day and day tours of Scotland, is where Bonnie Prince Charlie first raised his standard in 1745. This act signified the start of the Jacobite uprising.
Interesting Facts About the Isle of Skye
Skye’s rugged terrain has made it a favourite filming location, with Hollywood blockbusters like Prometheus and Macbeth capturing its otherworldly beauty. It’s also a haven for wildlife, with golden eagles, red deer, and even sea eagles making their home here.
Orkney Islands: A Journey Through Time
Orkney Islands Location and Getting There
The Orkney Islands lie off Scotland’s northeast coast and can be reached by ferry from Scrabster or Aberdeen, or by a short flight from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness.
Famous Orkney Landmarks
Orkney is a treasure trove of history. The UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney includes Skara Brae, a remarkably preserved prehistoric village older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Giza. The Standing Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar offer further atmospheric glimpses into Scotland’s mystical ancient past.
Cultural and Historical Highlights on the Orkney Islands
Orkney’s Viking heritage is still very much alive. The Norse influence can be seen in place names, local traditions, and the impressive St Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, built by the Vikings in the 12th century. Scapa Flow, a sheltered bay in Orkney, played a crucial role in both World Wars and is now a world-famous diving site with well-preserved wrecks.
Interesting Facts About the Orkney Islands
Orkney is known for its strong sense of identity, with its own flag and dialect influenced by Old Norse. The islands are also home to some of Scotland’s finest local produce, including Orkney cheddar, succulent lamb, and craft whisky from distilleries like Highland Park and Scapa.
Isle of Lewis: The Cultural Heart of the Outer Hebrides
Isle of Lewis Location and Getting There
Lewis is accessible by ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway or by air from major Scottish cities. Interestingly, the full name for this island, the largest in the Outer Hebrides, is Lewis and Harris. The island is split in two by mountains, with the northern two-thirds called Lewis and the southern third called Harris.
Famous Lewis Landmarks
One of Scotland’s most fascinating prehistoric sites, the Calanais Standing Stones, dominates the Lewis landscape. These ancient monoliths, thought to be around 5,000 years old, are often compared to Stonehenge and have long been a source of mystery and wonder.
Cultural and Historical Highlights on the Isle of Lewis
Lewis has a deep-rooted Gaelic culture. Visitors can explore the traditional blackhouses at the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, where islanders once lived in thick-walled stone cottages with thatched roofs. The island is also home to a strong tradition of Harris Tweed weaving — crafted by hand and legally protected as a product of the Outer Hebrides.
Interesting Facts About the Isle of Lewis
Lewis is famed for its stunning white-sand beaches, particularly Luskentyre and Uig Bay. The island is also one of the best places in Scotland to witness the Northern Lights, with dark, unpolluted skies providing the perfect backdrop for this natural phenomenon.
Plan Your Scottish Island Adventure with Discreet Scotland
So, which are the best Scottish islands to visit during your trip to Scotland? Only you can answer that now! But if the Isle of Skye, the Orkney Islands, and the Isle of Lewis have captured your imagination, browse our luxury private Scotland multi-day tours to find out more about visiting them and other unmissable Scottish highlights. And remember, we can include anything from our carefully crafted itineraries in our private bespoke tours of Scotland.
Do you have any questions for us? Please just get in touch for the information you need. The Discreet Scotland team is here to help however we can.
