National Geographic's latest list of the world's 25 best places to visit in 2025 ranges from Italy's medieval monasteries to the “alpine paradise” of India's Suru Valley. Middle of the must-see list is the UK's Outer Hebrides.
The magnificent setting of the upcoming BBC Gaelic-language drama “An t-Eilean” (“The Island”) is a serene destination for your next trip. The archipelago's “spectacular landscapes and Celtic heritage” are best explored by cycling or walking the Hebridean Way, which stretches 200 miles across 10 islands and includes “silver beaches, distilleries of whisky, meadows of machair adorned with wildflowers,” said NatGeo.
From the moment you arrive and admire the “untouched beauty” of the black cliffs and vast expanses of white sand and blue water, you will feel “the feeling of stepping back in time”, said Peter May in The Guardian.
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If you missed the recent aurora borealis observations, the Menhirs of Calanais, a Neolithic monument older than Stonehengeis highly rated for capturing the Northern Lights without the light pollution of big cities, Janani Venkateswaran said in the Express. While you watch, stay quiet because the Outer Hebrides is a “haven for wildlife enthusiasts” and you have the chance to observe “abundantly” dolphins, otters and eagles.
The location means an abundance of “fresh, local” seafood, from food trucks serving “traditional local fare” to “creative dishes” at Lochmaddy Bay Prawns, May wrote.
The 'stunning' islands also offer affordable stays, with backpacker hostels starting at just £25 per night and Airbnb options for families starting from £100 per night.
