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A mini guide to
Isle of Harris & Tarbert: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Drive the single-track roads with care
The roads to Hushinish, the Bays and Scalpay are single-track with passing places. Pull in to let others pass and never park in a passing place.
Swim with care
The beaches face the open Atlantic and the water is cold. Check conditions and swim only where you are confident.
Check seasonal openings
Some cafés close for the winter; The Bothy at Leverburgh, for example, says it is closed until next season.
Sundays are quiet
Many businesses on Harris close or open less on Sundays, so plan food and fuel the day before.
Book the ferry
CalMac recommends vehicle reservations on the Leverburgh to Berneray route.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Isle of Harris & Tarbert?
Isle of Harris & Tarbert is in Na h-Eileanan Siar, Scotland. White beaches, the Bays, Tarbert and the church at Rodel. Nearby stops and stations include Tarbert ferry terminal, Leverburgh, A859.
How long do I need in Isle of Harris & Tarbert?
One or two days, more if you plan to walk in North Harris. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Isle of Harris Distillery, Luskentyre Beach, Seilebost Beach. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Tarbert ferry terminal (CalMac ferry to Uig (Skye)); Leverburgh (CalMac ferry to Berneray); A859 (Road to Lewis); Local buses (Island bus routes). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 7 places to eat and drink in and around Isle of Harris & Tarbert, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 8 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Isle of Harris & Tarbert accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Isle of Harris & Tarbert
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
Lighthouse on the east coast of Scalpay, the first in the Hebrides and one of the four original Northern Lights.
Talla na Mara
West Harris Trust centre on the coast road with a café, a gift shop and events.
Isle of Harris Distillery
Distillery in Tarbert making Harris gin and whisky, the first legal distillery built on Harris; CalMac mentions tours and tastings.
The Outer Hebrides
More areas to explore
The Uists & Benbecula
Machair, chambered cairns and causeways from Berneray to Eriskay
Open the mini guide →
Barra & Vatersay
Kisimul Castle, the beach airport and the sands of Vatersay
Open the mini guide →
Isle of Lewis & Stornoway
Stornoway, the Calanais Stones, blackhouses and the Butt of Lewis
Open the mini guide →Photo credits
- The Clisham: David Crocker, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Eilean Glas Lighthouse: simon stewart, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Talla na Mara: Steve Houldsworth, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Isle of Harris Distillery: Coldupnorth, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- The Uists & Benbecula: Helen Spencer, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
- Barra & Vatersay: Conor Lawless from North Uist, United Kingdom, CC BY 2.0, source
- Isle of Lewis & Stornoway: LornaMCampbell, CC BY-SA 4.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring The Outer Hebrides