Explore Harris

The guide book Lonely Planet describes the Isle of Harris as the :

"scenic jewel in the necklace of islands that comprise the Outer Hebrides. It has a spectacular blend of rugged mountains, pristine beaches, flower speckled machair and barren rocky landscapes"

We wholeheartedly agree! It is a spectacular place to explore and enjoy, whether you are looking for an active or more relaxed visit.

The Isle of Harris lies to the south of Isle of Lewis, and although they sounds like two separate islands, they are actually two parts of the same island and so the beautiful scenery and attractions of both Harris and Lewis can be easily explored from One Bayhead.

Some of the attractions and activities on offer around the Isle of Lewis and Harris include:

sea kayaking - Roam Outer Hebrides organises sea Kayaking tours;

walking and hiking - see Walk Highlands for some walking routes;

cycling and mountain biking - see Visit Outer Hebrides for more information;

rock climbing - see UK Climbing's article on Climbing in Lewis and Harris ;

surfing, Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP), snorkelling and open water swimming - Surf Lewis and Harris have a surf school in Stornoway and can provide more information;

Kitesurfing - see the beautiful video below showing kitesurfing in Lewis and Harris;

wildlife spotting - the islands are home to red deer, some of the most spectacular and iconic birds of prey in Scotland (including the Golden Eagle, white tailed eagle, hen harriers and short eared owls), seabirds, waders, otters and some of the world’s richest and most vibrant marine life including porpoises, orca whales, minke whales, basking shares and numerous species of dolphins. Isle of Harris Sea Tours offers boat trips to spot Otters, seals and creels ;

fishing - the Isle of Harris offers some of the best fishing grounds for salmon and trout in Scotland;

playing golf - The Isle of Harris' 9 hole American golf course is widely considered as one of the most scenic golf courses in the world - see the Isle of Harris Golf Club for more information;

exploring Harris' spectacular beaches including Huisinis Beach, Seilebost Beach, Luskentyre Beach, Borve Beach and Horgabost Beach, to mention only a few.;

taking a boat trip to explore the stunning coastal scenery, find hidden private beaches and spot some of the Island 's magnificent wildlife - see Isle of Harris Sea Tours and Kidla Cruises for a range of boat trips around the islands.;

visiting a working distillery, Isle of Harris Distilery - home to the renowned Isle of Harris Gin!;

taking a journey to the Islands on the edge of the World, St Kilda with Kilda Cruises ;

visiting the magnificent Standing Stones of Callanish - see Callanish Visitor Centre for more information; and

watching the Northern Lights or auroras borealis - Scotland is renowned as one of the top places in the world to view the northern lights and the Isle of Harris and Lewis are one of the best places in Scotland to see them - see Wilderness Scotland for more information.