Introduction

The Outer Hebrides’ unique and attractive environment offers tremendous potential for tourist visitors. Over 115 islands and 100 beaches are spread throughout the 150 mile-long chain which make up the Outer Hebrides. The rich cultural heritage and outstanding natural environment ensures the islands are a haven for adventure enthusiasts, and a great place to unwind for those seeking a little less action. The total annual number of visitors to the Outer Hebrides is estimated to be around 195,766, contributing some £49.9m to the local economy (Tourism Facts and Figures Update, 2007). For comparison, Shetland is estimated to receive 104,241 annual visitors with an estimated £16.4m spend, and Orkney 127,200 visitors with an estimated spend of £26.6m.

Tourism based on culture, environment and outdoor recreation often attracts people ‘out of season’ thus helping to extend economic activity through more of the year. The Gaidhlig language and Gaidhlig culture is a unique selling point of the Outer Hebrides and the Gaidhealtachd. Valuable indigenous resources of the Outer Hebrides - the language, culture and way of life – remain under-utilised as an economic development and tourism generator.

A number of websites provide tourist information for the Western Isles, covering areas such as places to stay, travel and things to do etc.