Tucked up against the northwest coast of Scotland, the Hebrides are a chain of rocky, mountainous islands that are usually divided into two groups: The Inner Hebrides and the Outer Hebrides. The archipelago is best known for its rugged beauty and spectacular beaches, but visitors can also admire the stone carvings and crosses on the island of Iona or head to the island of Islay to taste some of the world's best whisky. Approximately 50 of the islands are inhabited; most are accessible by ferry, although the island of Skye is connected by bridge to the mainland. Map