Travel Guides

The Hebrides : 50 Walking and Backpacking Routes

by Peter Edwards

An inspirational large-format guidebook by Peter Edwards, who lives on the Isle of Harris The Hebrides are among the most wild and beautiful places in the British Isles, a vast archipelago stretching from the Inner Hebrides to the Outer Isles, where white-sand beaches meet volcanic peaks, ancient culture runs deep, and the walking is unlike anywhere else in Britain. From the dramatic ridgelines of the Skye Cuillin to the remote coasts of St Kilda, these islands reward those willing to make the journey. This comprehensive guide covers 50 walking and backpacking routes across the full length of the archipelago, including Skye, Mull, Jura, Islay, Colonsay, Rum, Eigg, Canna, Muck, Coll, Tiree, Raasay, Harris, Lewis, North Uist, South Uist, Barra and St Kilda. Hebrides classics are covered in full—among them the Skye and Rum Cuillin traverses, the Trotternish Ridge, the Paps of Jura and full island circuits—alongside many lesser-known routes that most visitors never find. Most routes offer a full day's walking for experienced walkers (between 5 and 32km), with a selection of multi-day backpacking adventures on more remote islands, as well as shorter options. Each walk is illustrated with stunning photography and accompanied by clear route descriptions, mapping and practical information on facilities, public transport, length and terrain, making it straightforward to plan a visit to even the most remote islands. A comprehensive introduction covers geology, history, culture, wildlife, plants and flowers, alongside practical advice on travel, navigation, safety, river crossings and dealing with midges and the deerstalking season. This is the essential companion for anyone drawn to the wild landscapes of the Scottish islands.

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