Explore the Isle of Harris
Nestled in the heart of the Outer Hebrides, the Isle of Harris offers an unforgettable escape into nature’s beauty and cultural richness. Harris Hideaway provides the perfect base from which to explore this island paradise. Whether you seek the pristine beaches like Luskentyre, abundant wildlife such as soaring eagles and playful seals, or the vibrant local crafts including the renowned Harris Tweed, there is something for every traveller. Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history, from ancient standing stones to medieval castles, and experience the unique charm of this remote corner of Scotland.
Beautiful beaches
How will you choose which beach to visit first?
Our nearest is Huisinish, just 6 miles further along the single track road from Harris Hideaway. There’s a wonderful headland to explore to see the full expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, or for the adventurous ones it’s well worth taking the rocky cliff top path over to the secret beach.
In South Harris top of the list needs to be Luskentyre’s mile and a half of perfect white sands, close by is the famous lay-by above the vast Seilebost sands looking over to the North Harris Hills where our Hideaway nestles. Horgabost is great for swimming and as you head south take a walk along Iar beach to Macleod’s Stone.
Isle of Harris golf course perches atop of Scarista beach, what a stunning location! Further south is the village of Northton, stop off at the self service food hut at Croft 36 before heading out along the many beaches en-route to the ruins of Rubh’ an Teampaill.
In summertime the beautiful Machair is in full bloom above most of the beaches, a wonderful carpet of wild flowers.
It’s worth taking a trip to Lewis to enjoy the vastness of Uig beach and find out about the Lewis Chessmen, maybe stop for a top class meal at Uig Sands Restaurant.
Cliff beach is very popular with surfers and nearby Reef beach is not to be missed.
“The beaches are breathtaking”
Wonderful Wildlife
Just down the road from Harris Hideaway is the start of the North Harris eagle observatory walk, perfect for spotting golden eagles and giant sea eagles soaring up above. Head deep into the rugged countryside to find deer and stags meandering on the hillside. If hills are your thing ensure you climb the Clisham, Harris’s tallest mountain standing at 799 meters.
There’s an abundance of seabirds like gannets, great northern divers, cormorants and a variety of gulls to be found when wandering along the coastlines.
Out to sea you may spot seals, otters, porpoise, common dolphins, and even minke whales, orcas and basking sharks.
Whilst on land you’ll find yourself amongst merlin, hen harriers, stonechats, curlews and even a few corncrakes down at Northton.
“Watching eagles soar is magical”
Supporting Local
Island life can be challenging, with most things being brought over from the mainland by boat. There’s a thriving community of small businesses who create some amazing products on the Island.
You may have heard of Harris Gin, its unique bottle is a work of art, along with their single malt whisky, the Hearach which has a wonderful flavour. Why not book a Distillery tour whilst you’re staying.
On the foodie front you’ll find honesty sheds, catering vans, tea rooms, smoked foods, handmade chocolates, home baking, mustard and jams along with some top class dining at Flavour and North Harbour Bistro.
The famous Harris Tweed can be bought from the Harris Tweed shop in Tarbet or visit one of the many independent weavers and watch them work their magic on the looms.
Anyone for tennis? As you drive to Harris Hideaway you’ll pass the most amazing tennis court with unrivalled views at Bunabhainneadar, worth stopping for a game!
Wondering what else to do… drive the Golden Road, talk to locals and learn some Gaelic, take boat trips with Eilean Glas Rib Tours or a day trip to St Kilda, visit the many art galleries like the Mission House Studio, go kayaking, cycling, fishing, sailing, surfing, or a round of golf at the stunning Isle of Harris Golf Club above Scarista beach.
For the adventurous check out our nearby neighbours Wild Harris for guided activities on land and sea, book a session in a mobile sauna or boat trip to remote islands with Norma from Immerse Hebrides.
“An island full of unique crafts”
Rich History
The Outer Hebrides are scattered with evidence of human settlements and religious sites from the Neolithic period onwards.
Along the road from Harris Hideaway towards Huisinish beach you will pass Amhuinnsuidhe Castle, built in 1867, currently a private home hosting fishing and shooting parties on the vast estate. Ensure you stop and buy some wonderful venison from the Castle honesty shop.
In a remote location 2km north west of Harris Hideaway is a well preserved beehive house, thought to be medieval sheiling where people would live in the hills for the summer, tending their animals.
Visit St Clement’s Church, Rodel, founded by Alasdair ‘Crotach’ MacLeod of Dunvegan and Harris. Further North close to Traigh Iar beach stands Mcleod’s stone an impressive 12 ft Neolithic monolith.
Over on the Isle of Lewis the Calanais Standing Stones are an iconic cross-shaped array erected 5,000 years ago. There are many other stone circles within close distance, all worth a visit and showing what an important religious site this was.
Dun Carloway is an excellent example of a broch, constructed around 200 BC, last used as a defensive structure by the Morrison Clan in the 1500s.
Blackhouses were the main form of dwelling on the islands, well worth a trip to the visitor centres at Gearrannan and Arnold on the West coast.
Visit the medieval Lewis Chessmen at Lews Castle in Stornoway. 93 pieces were found in the dunes of Uig Bay in 1831. You can enjoy a game of chess when you return to the Hideaway with our wonderful replica set from Regency Chess.
“The land that time forgot”