St. Kilda

Fast Facts

Location: Scotland
Best time to Visit: March and October
Preferred timings: Daytime
How to reach: Regular ferry services are available between various islands of the region. Important transport junctions are located in the islands of Hirta and Oban. Cruise ships operate between these places to other important cities in Scotland.
Nearest International Airport: Glasgow International Airport
Time required for sightseeing: 1-2 days

The first World Heritage Site listed by the UNESCO in Scotland, the St. Kilda is perhaps one of those romantic destinations where every traveler yearns to come. Located in the midst of the North Atlantic Ocean, these lovely islands symbolize charm and scenic beauty. A trip to the St. Kilda is an experience that you will always want to cherish.

St. Kilda consists of a group of islands which are spread over an area of 64 kms in the north western part of North Uist. Some of the western most islands are located at an easy reach to the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Almost all the islands are rich in scenic beauty and the landscape consists of rugged sea cliffs, shallow beaches and other geographical features. The largest island named Hirta is a popular tourist destination and is home to the highest sea cliffs of the United Kingdom.

The entire part of St. Kilda is owned by the National Trust for Scotland. The archipelago is an ideal habitat for a wide species of sea birds. Plenty of sea birds from all parts of Northwestern Europe come to these islands to lay their eggs in the summer season. A number of rare and endangered bird species like Atlantic Puffins, Northern Fulmars, Northern Gannets, St Kilda Field Mouse and other bird species. There are also various species of fauna in the archipelago like Winter Wren, St Kilda Field Mouse, Soay ram, grey seal and other animals. If you are a bird watcher and a nature lover, you should try to come at least once in St. Kilda (Archipelago).

While touring St. Kilda, you should visit the ancient relics and monuments in the region. There is a medieval village named Tobar Childa, which is located around 350 meters from the shores of the sea. You can visit the old buildings and get a feeling of the rich Scottish heritage and culture. Some of the buildings in the region date back to the period between 500 BC and 300 AD.

St. Kilda is also an ideal place if you wish to have a nice cruising experience. A number cruise trips are offered by the tourist board and other travel agencies. You can also enjoy some adventure sports like rafting, kayaking and so on.

The ideal time for coming to St. Kilda in Scotland is between the months of March and October. The weather in this part of the year is pleasant. The weather in the region mostly remains cool throughout the year. Snowfall occurs in the winter season.

For going to various islands in St. Kilda, you can avail of inland ferry services. Regular ferry services are available between various islands of the region. Important transport junctions are located in the islands of Hirta and Oban. Cruise ships operate between these places to other important cities in Scotland.

Related Links :

http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=qgA0b1G-krI: Check out this entertaining and informative video on St. Kilda. The natural beauty of this fabulous archipelago will take you by surprise!

http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=FG2TOYURsL0: For an authentic traveler's video of a visit to the St. Kilda, watch this clip.

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