The Northern Lights are a celestial spectacle that many dream of witnessing, but the cost of traveling to destinations like Iceland or Norway can be daunting. However, there’s a hidden gem in the UK waiting to be discovered: the Isle of Harris, located in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. This island paradise offers a breathtaking alternative, with piercing blue waters, white sand beaches, rugged mountains, and a chance to see the Aurora Borealis for a fraction of the price.
Beaches of Unparalleled Beauty
The Isle of Harris is renowned for its stunning beaches, with Luskentyre Beach being a standout. Situated on the north coast, it boasts picturesque white sand, turquoise waters, and views of the neighboring island of Taransay. The area is teeming with wildlife, including dolphins, seals, otters, and eagles. Visitors often remark on its resemblance to the Maldives, making it a truly unique destination within the UK. Other beaches worth exploring include Hushinish Beach, Seilebost Beach, and Horgabost Beach, ensuring that beach lovers are spoilt for choice.
Beyond the Beaches: Things to Do on the Isle of Harris
Despite its small population of less than 21,000, the Isle of Harris offers a wealth of activities. Immerse yourself in history by exploring ancient sites like the Calanais Standing Stones, a prehistoric monument resembling Stonehenge. These massive stones, believed to have been erected 5000 years ago, are older than the Pyramids of Giza and have even been known to be a spot where the Northern Lights can be seen.
The island is also famous for its Harris Tweed, a distinctive handwoven fabric. Visit the Harris Tweed shop in Tarbert, the main cultural hub and largest village on the island. Tarbert also boasts a picturesque loch and offers kayaking opportunities. For a deeper dive into the world of Harris Tweed, head to Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, where you can witness the traditional weaving process.
Another historical highlight is the Bosta Iron Age Village, discovered in 1993. This archaeological site allows visitors to explore the remains of Iron Age houses, providing a glimpse into the past. For a taste of island life, visit the tiny village of Hushinish, with its four homes overlooking the breathtaking Hushinish Beach.
Accommodation Options for Every Budget
The Isle of Harris caters to all budgets when it comes to accommodation. For budget travelers, No. 5 Drinishader, a 4-star hostel in a cottage, offers twin rooms for £65 per night. Solo travelers can opt for a hostel bed for just £24. Airbnb offers options ranging from tiny homes for £89 per night to more traditional properties around £100-£150 per night. Booking.com provides a wider range, from cottages starting at £160 per night to private chalets for £300 per night. For luxury travelers, Flodabay Farm offers an exclusive chalet overlooking the water, priced at £550 for a three-night stay or £1,250 for a week. In Tarbert, the Harris Hotel provides 22 bedrooms, with the cheapest starting at £129 per night. Self-catered cottages are also available.
Getting to the Isle of Harris
Several transportation options allow you to reach the Isle of Harris, including air, sea, and rail. For air travel, fly Loganair from Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Inverness airports to Stornoway Airport. A return ticket typically costs around £265. From Stornoway, you can drive to your chosen town or use public transport.
Traveling by sea offers the opportunity for whale and dolphin watching. Caledonian Macbrayne ferries sail from Skye to Tarbert. Booking in advance is recommended. To reach Harris by rail, use the Scotrail network to Kyle of Lochalsh or Mallaig, where connecting bus services take you to the ferry terminal on the Isle of Skye.
