What to do in Isle of Harris
OUT & ABOUT ON THE ISLE OF HARRIS
Harris has abundant activities to suit all types of visitors. Our personal recommendations:
St Clements Church
St Clements Church is a historic church located in the village of Rodel on The Isle of Harris. It was built in the 16th century by Alasdair Crotach MacLeod, who was chief of the MacLeods at the time. The church is known for its unique architecture, which features a blend of Gothic and Scottish Renaissance styles.
Many weddings are still held in this enigmatic building and it is well worth a visit. Free entry!
St Kilda
St Kilda Island lies to the West off the coast of Harris. It is a rugged, spectacular and isolated place, with steep cliffs and rocky shores that make it difficult to approach by sea.
The island is home to a variety of unique flora, fauna and seabirds. Despite its harsh environment, humans lived on St Kilda for hundreds of years, surviving on fishing and farming in this challenging landscape.
Today, the island is uninhabited, but visitors can still explore its ancient ruins and walk along its windswept beaches to experience the wild beauty of this remote outpost.
www.kildacruises.co.uk have trips to this wild isle.
Dun Carloway Broch
The Dun Carloway Broch is a remarkable structure located on the Isle of Lewis. This ancient tower, dating back to the Iron Age, is one of the best-preserved brochs in Scotland. The structure stands tall and proud, with walls that are over 9 metres high in some places.
It's fascinating to think about what life would have been like for those who lived within its walls so many centuries ago. The broch was likely used as a fortified dwelling or a status symbol for a wealthy family. Whatever its original purpose, it remains an impressive testament to the ingenuity and skill of our ancestors.
Harris Tweed Shop, Tarbert
Harris Tweed Isle of Harris is a family-run business that specialises in the world-famous cloth known as Harris Tweed®. The family has a rich heritage of weavers that go back generations and are proud to be able to continue the family legacy combining our rich time-honoured craft with modern, contemporary influences.
Initially, the family business was weaving and selling tweed lengths, we are now able to offer a large range of Harris Tweed® products such as jackets, handbags, purses, soft furnishings, and many other accessories.
Beaches
Harris is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world, with crystal clear waters and expansive white sandy shores that stretch for miles. Driving down the west coast you will pass Luskintyre, Horgabost, Niseabost, Borve and Scarista. But don't miss out on gorgeous Hushinish which takes you past stately Amhuinnsuidhe Castle on the way. If you fancy a dip or some surfing check out these links for advice, surf lessons, guided swims and excursions.
Walk and Cycle trails
Walking and cycling across the many marked trails through the impressive landscape and admire the beautiful view from the mountains. Many lochs are surrounded by beautiful white water lilies or water hyacinths.
Wildlife
Head out and about and see what you can see nature watching. There are a wide range of eagles and the rare Golden Eagle, northern and migratory birds (season dependant), seals and otters.
Not far from Tarbert on the road out to Hushinish you will come across the start of a track to the Eagle observatory.
Taste Harris
Go on a self guided gastronomic tour of Harris with the help of The Taste Harris website. From cozy cafes to roadside seafood vans you will be sure to find something to appeal to your taste buds.
