The Hebrides has joined an exclusive list of travel destinations as one of the must-visit locations of 2019.
The Inner and Outer Hebrides was named on the CCN must-see destinations to visit this year by CNN Travel with the Isle of Skye and Lewis joining the likes of the Grand Canyon, Fukuoka, Christchurch and Oman on the list.
READ MORE: Plans to link Outer Hebrides pave way for Scotland's most spectacular drive
The move was greeted by VisitScotland with Chris Taylor, Regional Leadership Director saying “The Hebrides offer such a unique visitor experience that it is no wonder they have been chosen by CNN Travel as one of the top 19 destinations in the world to visit this year.
“It’s the potent mix of stunning landscapes, rich history and heritage, inspiring culture and warmth of the people, that makes the islands the go-to place for the discerning traveller looking for an adventure in Scotland.”
The guide reads: "The birthplace of Harris Tweed, the famous cloth that's been woven, dyed and spun by the islanders for centuries, is also home to its own Stonehenge-style mystery in the Callanish Standing Stones.
"Unlike Stonehenge, visitors can get up close to the standing circle of boulders at Callanish, which is believed to have been erected about 5,000 years ago.
READ MORE: Business bid to boost Outer Hebrides tourism
"For this and Lewis and Harris' other wonders, it's worth the drive to Ullapool, close to the northern tip of the Scottish mainland, and the 2.5-hour ferry across a choppy stretch of the Atlantic to explore these islands. Alternatively, there's the plane from Glasgow straight to Stornoway, the island's capital.
"Each Hebridean island has its own distinctive vibe, but they're all grounded in a similar small-town community spirit. Islay, the southernmost Hebridean isle, known for its whisky distilleries and incredible beaches, offers a true sense of island life. Driving around, visitors might be more likely to encounter cows than people, but any meeting with an islander will likely earn an "Islay wave" -- a friendly acknowledgement from a fellow driver.
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