The Hebrides

The Hebrides are an archipelago of islands off the west and northwest coast of Scotland, divided into the Inner Hebrides, which lie closer to the mainland, and the Outer Hebrides, which form a long chain further to the west. The islands have a total population of approximately 50,000 people and are characterised by dramatic Atlantic coastlines, moorland, mountains, and a strong Gaelic cultural tradition. The Outer Hebrides, also known as the Western Isles or Na h-Eileanan an Iar, include the islands of Lewis, Harris, North and South Uist, and Barra. The Inner Hebrides include Skye, Mull, Islay, and Jura.