Barra to Benbecula, Outer Hebrides

 Introduction

This evening, I am reporting on a trip to the southern islands of the Outer Hebrides chain off the west coast of Scotland. 

 Castlebay, Barra

Castlebay, Barra

Information on the Outer Hebrides trip

This morning, we arrived at Castlebay after an 11 hour crossing from Oban on the Scottish mainland.This journey had taken twice the normal time due to delays caused by severe weather conditions.

Upon arrival at Castlebay we checked into the hotel for a freshen up and breakfast and then commenced a tour of the island taking in:

  • The magnificent sandy beaches and coastline resplendent in the sunshine.
  • Ancient religious site of Cille Bhara which dates from the 12th century but with a Christian heritage dating back to the 7th century.
  • Traigh Mhor Airport, Barra’s unique beach landing strip. Here we waited patiently for a scheduled plane to land but it failed to arrive and we eventually gave up.

Mid afternoon we caught the ferry to Eriskay, across the Sound of Barra, and then drove north across the causeway to South Uist and then on to Nunton on Benbecula where we are lodging tonight in an excellent four star guest house. We plan to catch upon sleep tonight before embarking on our travels to North Uist and Harris.

Castlebay, Barra 

Castlebay, Barra

Beach Scene, Barra

Beach Scene, Barra 

Barra Airport

Barra Airport, Hebrides

Cille Bhara Religious Site, Barra

Cille Bhara Religious Site

Peat Cutting, Benbecula

Peat Digging, Benbecula

More information for the tourist

The publication, Visitors’ Guide Scotland includes sections on islands. There is a wide range of further information including the Highlands, and much more. ISBN is 978-1-9161332-0-4. This book is also available via Kindle.


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