Seniors Enjoy the Hebrides
May 31st, 2011 | By James E Becker | Category: Senior TravelThis looks like another “once in a lifetime bucket list” to me, seniors. On the edge of Europe is a striking mix of landscapes from windswept golden sands to harsh, heather-backed mountains and peat bogs. An elemental beauty pervades each of the more than two hundred islands that make up the archipelago, the Hebrides, only a handful of which are actually inhabited. Scenic views of the area will provide senior visitors an idea of what is in store prior to a visit. Here it is said, “Near the sea we forget to count the days.”
The islands are geographically contiguous with Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, one of the 32 unitary council areas of Scotland. They form part of the Hebrides, separated from the Scottish mainland and from the Inner Hebrides by the waters of the Minch, the Little Minch and the Sea of the Hebrides. Most of the islands have a bedrock formed from ancient metamorphic rocks and the climate is mild and oceanic. The 15 inhabited islands have a total population of about 26,500 and there are more than 50 substantial uninhabited islands. This clickable map will fill you in on each of the island groupings.
The Hebrides remain the heartland of Gaelic culture. Scottish Gaelic, formerly the dominant language, remains widely spoken by the vast majority of islanders, though its everyday usage remains under constant threat from the national dominance of English.
The Outer Hebrides is one of the most amazing locations to visit. With a variety of rolling backgrounds and some of the most amazing views, there are few comparable places to captivate the senses and the imagination. The wildlife, awe-inspiring scenery and way of life of the Hebrides leave a lasting impression on all who land on its shores. There are several islands cruises that focus on birdwatching, wildlife and just cruising.
The Hebrides are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and etched with deep sea-lochs. There is a lifetime’s exploration by sailing boat and it is the perfect place for sea-kayaking with paddling to rival the best in the world. Year-round swells onto outstanding reef breaks and beaches provides the most consistent surf in Europe, making the Hebrides a world-class location for surfing, windsurfing and kite-surfing. Fast boats explore the myriad islands and coves.
The Virtual Hebrides is your guide to the islands of the Inner Hebrides and Outer Hebrides also known as the Western Isles of Scotland. This site is one of the longest established web sites dedicated to this wonderful and unique area of Scotland and it has been around in it’s various forms from almost the beginning of the Internet. You can book a flight to Glasgow on Icelandair here.
Enjoy the Hebrides! jeb
