Things to do on the Isle of Harris
The Isle of Harris has something for everyone. Some guests come here for relaxing holidays to walk hand-in-hand on our sandy beaches, play a round of golf and enjoy a dram overlooking the hills. Others, meanwhile, look for action and adventure, on the sea, up the mountains or in an outdoor centre. Whatever you want, you can do it here! We’ve put together some ideas to get you started. If you want to find out more, just get in touch and we’d be happy to help.
Water activities
The Isle of Harris is part of the Outer Hebrides, located on the edge of the North Atlantic. Here there are incredibly consistent swells crashing onto the cliffs and rocks of our shores producing ideal surf conditions. Body boarders, kite surfers and wind surfers all agree it’s a fantastic place to play.
Surfing and snorkeling
With empty breaks, crystal clear seas and beautiful clean beaches, the waters around Harris are some of the best in the world. Surf Lewis provides surfing lessons and equipment hire.
Boat trips
Boat trips to St Kilda and some of the other fascinating islands around Harris are a must for any visitor. The wildlife and sea cliffs that surround these islands are staggering.
St Kilda is 40 miles west of the Hebrides. It is Britain’s remotest inhabited island and Scotland’s first World Heritage Site. These islands are made of 4 smaller islands; Boreray, Soay, Dun and Hirta (being the main island). St Kilda has the highest sea cliffs in the UK and is home to the largest colony of Guillemots in the world and the biggest colony of Puffins in Britain, with over one million birds in total.
A boat trip to the Shiants is every bit as spectacular with 250,000 seabirds, including puffins, guillemots, razorbills, shags and great skuas, arriving there in the summer to breed. The Shiant Islands are located 11 miles east of Scalpay and their display of Basalt rock columns are the most spectacular in Britain (better than the giants causeway). There are hundreds of offshore islands in the Hebridean chain; many were inhabited at one time but have been deserted over the last two centuries, leaving behind empty villages and crofts. Some, though, are still thriving, now linked by causeways and bridges to the mainland islands.
To find out more, contact Kilda Cruises or Sea Harris to explore our beautiful waters.
Fishing
There are plenty of spots to go loch fishing and sea fishing on the Isle of Harris. You can fish for Brown/ Sea Trout and Salmon. It is advisable to contact the estate in advance of your stay. Find out more about fishing on Harris here.
Land activities
Beach strolling
Harris has many beaches to explore, including Horgabost, Nisabost, Luskentyre and Scarista. Whether it is a sunny, peaceful day of a blustery one, there’s something wonderful about all our beaches to calm the mind and enthuse the spirit.
Scaladale Centre
If you are looking to take on a bit of strenuous activity when visiting the Outer Hebrides, then a trip to the Scaladale Centre is for you. Here you can try your hand at archery, abseiling and kayaking. They can also arrange guided walks for you. Contact the Scaladale Centre to find out more.
Golfing
The Isle of Harris Golf Club is located opposite the cottages in Scarista. You are required to book your slot in advance details are on their website. We provide golf clubs at the cottages, should you wish to give it a go when visiting.
Walking/Cycling
Harris is perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Dotted along the coastline on Harris are deserted villages where the inhabitants have long gone and left are the ruins of a bygone day. As well as being wildlife havens, these special places offer total solitude and escape from the modern world.
Most of these villages and beaches are accessible by foot, the nearest beaches can be seen from the cottages and are approximately a 10 minute walk away. Road bikes in the cottages are available to use during your stay which will enable you to make the most of this spectacular scenery at a more leisurely pace. You can also use electric bikes which we can provide with advanced notice – let us know if you would like one when you book.
Isle of Harris Distillery
After a day exploring (or sitting relaxing, whatever works for you!) taking a trip around the Isle of Harris distillery will surely be a fine reward. As well as producing their award winning gin they have now launched their whisky, Na Hearadh. Find out more on the Isle of Harris Distillery page.
With so many things to do on the Isle of Harris, you can be as busy or relaxed as you wish. Book your stay with Blue Reef Cottages today and get ready for a holiday of a lifetime!
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