The Isle of Harris – An Unforgettable Experience

There are plenty of ways to explore Harris, be it on foot, by bike, by boat or by car. Whichever, you chose, you will not run out of options during your stay.

There are endless hiking routes, including, direct access to The Hebridean Way from The Sheep Station or you may decide to venture a little further and discover some of the many trails available across the island. Of course, you may just prefer to stroll to the nearest beach of Traigh Mhor which is just a few minutes’ walk from the houses.

The cycling is challenging, but rewarding and a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery. Cycle hire is available locally.

There are numerous boat trips and tours on offer from both the harbours at Leverburgh, Tarbert and Scalpay and even, from the nearby beach at Horgabost to the island to Taransay. Trips vary in detail, content and time from ten minutes on a landing craft to Taransay, to the fun of a fast wildlife RIB experience, a full day’s fishing or the adventure of a lifetime with a visit to the remote island of St Kilda.

And if you decide to head off in the car you can enjoy the east coast with its array of art galleries, pretty lochs, breath-taking landscapes and plenty of wildlife.

The Isle of Harris is steeped in rich history from the neolithic standing stones dotted around the island, the local clans, religion, the clearings, its fishing heritage to crofting communities, the production of Harris Tweed and more recently, its venture into distilling its own whiskey.

St Clements Church at Rodel dates back to the 1500’s, the Seallam Centre in Northton will help you trace your Scottish ancestry or you may prefer to call in at one of the local loom sheds to watch Harris tweed being woven in its traditional way.

The Golden Road on the east coast is full of independent galleries with a vast selection of paintings, photography, ceramics and glassware all created by local artists available.

Book a tour at the Ilse of Harris Distillery to learn more about the production of the island’s very first whiskey and the creation of its award-winning gin.

And of course, there is always the opportunity to pop along to a ceilidh to fully immerse yourself in the local culture.

Visiting the Outer Hebrides is definitely an adventure in itself. The islands are still relatively undiscovered by tourists and you will not have to go far to find your own deserted beach or empty roads.

Every bend on the West Harris roads will deliver a different view with stunning landscapes and breath-taking scenery. The east coast has a totally unique topography, with its ‘moonscape’ rocks and tranquil lochs.

Scotland’s, Right To Roam Act gives walkers the freedom to explore wherever they choose and discover their own hidden gems.

For guests seeking more organised adventure, boat trips, surfing, SUP, kayaking, wild swimming experiences, guided hikes and climbing are all available locally.

And for adventure further afield, take a day trip to the one of the neighbouring islands or visit the neighbouring island of Lewis.

There is an abundance of wildlife right on your doorstep at The Sheep Station, including, an array of bird species from oyster catchers to white tailed eagles and of course, the sheep.

It takes just a few minutes on foot to reach the nearest beach and here you can look out for sea otters, porpoises and plenty of sea life.

Boat trips can be arranged to view seals, basking sharks, dolphins and puffins and even whales if you venture further out to sea.

You may choose to follow the Birds of Prey route or visit the Eagle Conservatory on the road to Huisinis, but if you climb the small mountain to the rear of the properties or just look out, you will generally be rewarded with more than a passing glimpse of golden eagles.