Scottish Islands Vacation Packages
The Scottish Islands are comprised of more than 700 individual islands, each of which offers a unique heritage and a different cultural experience. Go island-hopping between these fascinating islands, exploring Nordic-influenced Orkney and the Scotch whisky distilleries of Islay.
Consisting of more than 70 islands, Orkney is a gorgeous archipelago known for its abundant wildlife and rich history. Look for the Orkney vole, a small rodent found exclusively in Orkney. A birdwatcher’s paradise, Orkney is also home to kittiwakes, puffins, fulmars and dozens of other avian species. Visit Skara Brae, one of Northern Europe’s best preserved Neolithic villages, and the Stones of Stenness, a henge and stone circle dating back to the 3rd millennium B.C.
The majestic Isle of Skye is Scotland’s second-largest island and one of the top tourist destinations in the country. In addition to rugged mountains, beguiling moors, windswept sea cliffs and ancient castles, this enchanting island is well-known for its excellent culinary scene. Taste fresh shellfish and locally brewed ale, as well as meat and game raised in the region’s mountains and glens.
A beautiful mix of Highland and Lowland landscapes, it’s easy to see why the Isle of Arran is often described as “Scotland in miniature.” This island’s spectacular natural beauty is best explored by foot or bike. Hike up Goatfell, the highest peak on the island at 2,866 feet (874 meters) or take on the lengthy Isle of Arran Coastal Way, which traverses waterfalls, cliffs, beaches and caves.
The Isle of Islay is Scotland’s undisputed whisky capital and is home to eight distilleries. Take a tour of one of the distilleries and learn about traditional whisky production. Be sure to try a few samples; Islay’s whiskies are known for their bold, peaty flavors.
There are a number of different ways to reach the Scottish Islands, which largely depends on which islands you want to visit and how much time you have. The most remote islands are best reached by plane, while journeying between the various islands by ferry offers a slower but more charming experience.