The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides

Dun Carloway Broch, Lewis And Harris Island, Isle of Lewis. Maxwell Andrews

Outer Hebrides Road Trip

Hey, there! Gear up because we’re about to head out on a Hebridean escape! The Outer Hebrides is a beautiful cluster of islands off Scotland's west coast, each offering a unique and deliciously untamed terrain brimming with varied flora and fauna. Welcome to our campervan road trip itinerary for the Outer Hebrides and look out for our regular guides going into depth on the stops that you will find highlighted below. Escapes in a campervan hire to this corner of the world guarantee a feeling of seclusion and tranquillity. The Hebridean islands are famed for their wild feel, vibrant Gaelic culture, and spectacular vistas across the wild Atlantic Waves. Stunning powder-white beaches rival that of the Caribbeans and ones including Luskentyre and Uig Sands have even ranked high on Condé Nast Traveller's Best Beaches in the World.

We wind our way around captivating Outer Hebrides, exploring the following locations on our journey.

• The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides
• Part 1: Discover Stornoway On Our Outer Hebridean Roadtrip
• Part 2: A Campervan Adventure Around Port of Ness
• Part 3: Unmissable Campervan Road Trip Through North Isle Of Lewis
• Part 4: The Best Road Trip Guide to Tarbert, Isle Of Harris
• Part 5: The Ultimate Road Trip Via Lochmaddy And Isle Of North Uist
• Part 6: Your Guide To A Campervan Road Trip Through Rushgarry
• Part 7: Scenic Motorhome Road Trip Through the Isle Of Benbecula
• Part 8: Campervan Road Trip to South Uist an island of the Outer Hebrides

Take a peek at the islands and settlements we’ll be visiting below, and perhaps a little information about these locations will entice you to add these stops to your road trip in the Outer Hebrides. Travelling to the Outer Hebrides is easiest over the sea, and the ferries connect all the islands, making it easy to pop over for a quick visit and perhaps return for a longer look.

• Start: Stornoway
• Part 2: Port of Ness, Isle of Lewis
• Part 3: North Isle of Lewis
• Part 4: Tarbert, Isle of Harris
• Part 5: Lochmaddy and Isle of North Uist
• Part 6: Rushgarry
• Part 7: Isle of Benbecula
• Part 8: South Uist
• Part 9: Eriskay
• Part 10: Isle of Barra
• End: Vatersay

Our guides are malleable and depend on your holiday period, preferred means of travel, the accommodation you have in store and what attractions best suit your interests. We will list camping locations at every stop, convenient campervan hire spots, and our top options in the area. The campsites in the Outer Hebrides are particularly beautiful, and each offers its own appeal. Wake up to gorgeous views overlooking the clear waters of the Atlantic or admire the remote feel from a rugged croft land pitch. Look forward to the warm Hebridean hospitality as you travel through the heart of the Hebrideans and immerse yourself in the glorious landscape.

We've summarize all the stops during this road trip. Read on for more information.

Start: Stornoway

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis. Marshiep

And away we go! We kick off our Outer Hebrides road trip at the largest town and port – Stornoway. You can arrive in Stornoway from Ullapool. Ferry details are here: The main town in the Isle of Lewis is the drop off point for ferries, and a great start to your holiday. We’ll take walks to a lovely harbour to admire views of the lively town, observe fishermen unloading the morning’s fresh catch, and dreamily gaze out at colourful boats bobbing in the water. Pop over to the historic castle, sit down at one (or more, we won’t judge) of the island’s exceptional eateries, and explore the town’s wide range of amenities. Look out for our forthcoming guide.

Check out the full guide here: Discover Stornoway On Our Outer Hebridean Roadtrip

Part 2: Port of Ness, Isle of Lewis

Port of Ness Beach. Scottish_Rambler_Steve

The Port of Ness or Nis is stop number two on our route. It’s a fine spot to get a true taste of the culture, and it boasts the highest proportion of Gaelic speakers in Scotland. Dive into the parish’s Norse beginnings and a long history with seafaring and the ocean. We look at exploring the beautiful beaches like Eoropie Beach, and many other stunning stretches of coastline that are perfect for relaxed picnics, walking and soaking in scenic views. The kids will love the fun-filled and educational facilities at Eoropie Dunes Park, a stunning conservation area with soft white dunes, snaking nature walks and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. We’ll explore beautiful walks across the rugged landscape and look at the most scenic campsites in the area. We’ve also listed a range of spots to camp.

Check out the full guide here: A Campervan Adventure Around Port of Ness

Part 3: North Isle of Lewis

Mangersta Sea Stack. Alliecull

We continue to explore the inimitable atmosphere of the Western Isles with a visit to the North Isle of Lewis, a remote, rugged and quiet location having been inhabited for 6000 years at the very least. The Callanish Stones, erected in the Neolithic area, stand testament to the civilizations that have called North Lewis home, and will be one of the attractions we explore here. We will also explore the stunning natural pillars of the Mangersta Sea Stacks, a beautiful spot with dramatic cliffs shaped by unrelenting crashing waves and a diverse array of local bird species. Join us as we explore this beautiful, remote location.

Check out the full guide here: Unmissable Campervan Road Trip Through North Isle Of Lewis

Part 4: Tarbert, Isle of Harris

Tarbert. Isle of Harris. Sei.Dein.Eigenes.Wunder

The fourth leg of our journey winds into the beautiful holiday village of Tarbet at Isle Of Harris a wonderful base for exploring the nearby islands of Lewis, Scalpay, Pabbay, Great Bernera, or even as far as Skye. We’ll dive into its historic archaeological remains to look out for, plus some exceptional beach walks in the area. Take a breather by heading down to the pierre to explore the stunning landscapes and crystal clear waters. Don’t forget your camera!

Check out the full guide here: The Best Road Trip Guide to Tarbert, Isle Of Harris

Part 5: Lochmaddy and Isle of North Uist

Lochmaddy. Gordon_Cameron_1977

The next takes us to Lochmaddy and the Isle of North Uist. Lochmaddy is the capital village and primary settlement of North Uist. We’ll take a look around the excellent marina, wander past Scandinavian-type constructions in the pretty village, and uncover a gorgeous glacial valley with remarkably diverse habitats. There are plenty of outdoorsy activities on offer, too, so come by to see what’s in store on our road trip through Lochmaddy. North Uist rests in a spectacularly unspoilt landscape extending from the ocean to short hills that offer jaw-dropping viewpoints. The island's unusual biodiversity and location promise exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities, as well as oodles of open and often isolated spots to truly reconnect with nature.

Check out the full guide here: The Ultimate Road Trip Via Lochmaddy And Isle Of North Uist

Part 6: Rushgarry

East Beach, Isle of Berneray. Shufflecake

We explore Rushgarry, a small settlement on the isle of North Uist, a relatively quiet area close to several local attractions. We’ll explore the stunning Hebridian wildlife haven of Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve, and admire a range of birdlife on walking trails. North Uist beaches are well known for rich wildlife, beautiful trails and endless white sands ideal for all kinds of adventures. The region also holds a range of archaeological attractions, including standing stones, and mediaeval chapels. In addition to birdwatching, the area is a hub for spotting seals, otters, and even dolphins. Indulge in an array of outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and wildlife photography. You’ll fall in love with the beautiful and varied landscapes for Rushgarry.

Check out the full guide here: Your Guide To A Campervan Road Trip Through Rushgarry

Part 7: Isle of Benbecula

Isle of Benbecula. Thomasvandervelden

The isle of Benbecula is centrally located within the Outer Hebrides and the seventh stop on our road trip. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the surrounding islands. We’ll kick off our adventure in Benbecula, the main village in Benbecula, stocking up on essentials at the shops before heading over to the beaches like Traigh Udal and Culla Bay for walks, swims and picnics. Dive into rich Gaelic culture with traditional music, events and Gaelic language activities. Admire a variety of bird species like in wetlands and coastal areas around Benbecula, or take a stroll to the historical sites like ancient stone circles and Iron Age roundhouses. Benbecula and the neighbouring islands are excellent for outdoor activities and ideal for exploring on bike via flat terrain roads.

Check out the full guide here: Scenic Motorhome Road Trip Through the Isle Of Benbecula

Part 8: South Uist

South Uist. Simonnott

Hop on the ferry for a visit to our next destination- South Uist. The island is relatively large and lies sandwiched between Barra and Benbecula. It boasts some of the best beaches on the Outer Hebrides. Gorgeous flowering machairs extend to white sand beaches lapped by clear and brilliantly blue waves, creating a stunning playground for coastal capers. You don’t want to miss a visit to South Uist or the port of Lochboisdale, so stay tuned for our campervan guide through South Uist.

Check out the full guide here: Campervan Road Trip to South Uist an island of the Outer Hebrides

Part 9: Eriskay

Eriskay. Farrenandy

Soak in the essence of the Outer Hebrides at Eriskay, a peaceful island with oodles of charm, unrivalled tranquillity and plenty of natural beauty. You’re likely to see native Eriskay ponies that roam freely across the landscape and along the coastline near gorgeous white sand beaches. Spot seals along the shires, soak in views from Prince's Cairn and use Eriskay Causeway as your connection point to South Uist. The island has plenty of quiet roads and trails that are ideal for exploring the landscape, and that’s what we intend to do! With stunning beaches like Prince's Beach, and exciting boat trips, there’s plenty to explore on and off the water. Join us as we explore this gorgeous island and its many stunning attractions.

Part 10: Isle of Barra

Isle of Barra. Mennobuyze

It may be the one before last stop, but the Isle Of Barra is certainly not any less attractive or interesting than its sister islands. It is the most southerly of the inhabited islands, long famed for its enchanting natural beauty. There’s plenty to explore in the great outdoors, so set up camp and get comfortable. We’ll wander from quiet beaches to moorland and perhaps even see the rather unusual sight of a plane landing at an airport - on the beach! There are very few places where the runway of a functioning airport disappears under the waves at high tide. We’ll also explore Castlebay, the main village on Barra's southern coast. What better way to enjoy a lovely road trip through the Outer Hebrides than with some great outdoor discoveries?

End: Vatersay

Vatersay. The_Oh_Expedition

And we’re at our final stop on our Outer Hebrides road trip. Vatersay is the southernmost inhabited island in the Outer Hebrides, and brims with a wealth of attractions despite its small size. Like many sister islands, Vatersay boasts spectacular beaches of white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters. We’ll explore Traigh Mhòr and Traigh Bhatarsaigh, beautiful stretches of coastline with lovely areas for picnics. We’ll follow the walks along Vatersay Bay, tackle beautiful coastal hikes to Heishival Mor, the highest point on Vatersay, spot dolphins and explore historical sites that provide insight into the early inhabitants of Vatersay. Come along as we explore the unspoilt beauty of the Outer Hebrides and its many beautiful islands.

Our Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides Maps

It's a Outer Hebrides Adventure and we're following the maps shown below. Take a peek at the wonderful locations we'll be visiting along the way.

Travelling to the Outer Hebrides is all part of the fun of a memorable road trip. You can use our itinerary for an island-hopping holiday or opt to take your campervan rental along and spend a longer holiday where you’re truly away from it all. Look out for our forthcoming guides. We’ll steer you through the best routes to get to each destination, showing camping spots and campervans for hire along the way as we explore Scotland’s stunning archipelago