Yes they are beautiful,also remote and rugged. Sailed thru the Minch and Lower Minch, on a mostly engineless trip from Stavenger to Kilrush Marina to replace the eñgine in '05. Stornoway was a lovely stop, with lots of history. Ran into an extremely capable sailor from CT, I think, who was mostly single handing as I was.She owned a lovely Ted Brewer 42er in steel. Single handing less engine, in those areas can be challenging. If wind and tide are favorable the sailing and scenery can be fantastic.