The Scottish islands are having a bit of a moment, with slow travel, dramatic coastlines, ferry hopping and whisky sipping adventures all on the cards.
Forget airport queues and baggage limits, travelling by ferry to the Scottish islands turns the journey into part of the adventure. From little boutique hotels tucked along the coastline to quiet hill walks, ancient castles and whisky tastings, Scotland’s islands offer a slower, more scenic way to explore. Here, natural beauty meets incredible food and drink, all wrapped in a true sense of escape.
CalMac Ferries
Hop between islands with Caledonian MacBrayne and turn travel into part of the adventure. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, explore more with a smooth and seamless crossing.
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Knipoch House Hotel, Oban
As a base point for ferries departing to a variety of the Scottish islands, and known as the ‘Gateway to the Isles’, Oban is the perfect starting point for a journey across the coast. Knipoch House Hotel is located just a short drive from Oban and is a family-run, historic country house hotel offering warm Highland hospitality and cosy rooms with panoramic views of Loch Feochan.
Home to 1635, this unique culinary experience highlights the best locally sourced ingredients from Argyll. Featuring a creative seven-course tasting menu, it showcases Scotland’s finest seasonal produce with the surrounding area in mind.
The hotel is set in a prime location for outdoor activities, from hiking and boat trips to whisky distillery tours.
How to book Knipoch: Knipoch House Hotel
Duisdale House Hotel, Skye
A former Victorian mansion turned boutique hotel, Duisdale House Hotel is the perfect landing point when arriving by ferry. Located just 15 minutes from the Armadale terminal where you’ll arrive on Skye, the estate overlooks the Sound of Sleat and the dramatic Knoydart mountains. Inside, you’ll find warm Highland hospitality, stylish rooms full of character and a two AA-rosette restaurant celebrating Skye’s seasonal produce, ideal after a day on the water.
Taking your own boat or yacht? Duisdale has a private and sheltered mooring in the bay in front of the hotel for £15 per night.
Nearby, explore the romantic grounds of Armadale Castle, hike to the iconic Fairy Pools on your way North, taste the elegant smoke flavours at Torabhaig Distillery, or stroll along Talisker Bay at sunset, a quieter corner of Skye that still stuns.
How to book Duisdale: Duisdale House Hotel
Skeabost House Hotel, Skye
On your way north, Skeabost House Hotel is a stately country house with a touch of Highland romance set beside one of Skye’s finest salmon rivers. Just a short drive from Portree, it’s perfectly placed to explore the island’s North – home to ancient ruins, dramatic cliffs and some of the most cinematic views in Scotland.
After a day out, return for a fireside dram or dinner in the cosy brasserie. Nearby highlights of Duisdale include the ruins of Trumpan Church, the turquoise waters of Coral Beach, and Neist Point Lighthouse which is spectacular at sunset.
How to book Skeabost: Skeabost House Hotel
Isle of Harris Distillery
Crossing the water to Harris, the distillery in Tarbert is located just steps from the ferry terminal – offering a warm welcome to the Hebrides and a must-visit for lovers of gin, whisky and island craftsmanship. Opened in 2015, it has become a beloved local landmark dedicated to supporting the island community. Their Isle of Harris Gin, infused with hand-harvested sugar kelp, has developed a cult following, and their first single malt, The Hearach, is the historic first dram from the island bottling the essence of Harris to take home.
Distillery experiences range from gin and whisky tastings to private warehouse tours, all set against the backdrop of Tarbert’s quiet charm.
How to book the distillery: Isle of Harris Distillery
Rodel House
Uniquely positioned on one of the Outer Hebrides’ most historically significant sites, Rodel House offers a truly serene retreat for families and close friends to come together.
The Isle of Harris’ rugged beauty and warm island spirit is the welcoming backdrop to this 18thcentury home. The small harbour village of Rodel, once the capital of the island, can be found on the southeast coast of Harris. Consciously restored both inside and out, the design and workmanship has been guided by the island itself, with subtle reference throughout to its culture, history, changeable land and seascapes, as well as its distinctly west coast climate.
No two visits to Rodel House are the same, with the entire experience tailored to you and guests’ preferences, and the changing seasons of Harris offering a beautiful backdrop.
How to book Rodel House: Rodel House
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