sea tours south uist

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Uist Sea Tours will take you to places you've never been to see things you've never seen!  St Kilda by boat is a must do

The highlights of our  schedule include seeing bottlenose dolphins in the sound of barra as well as  puffins on mingulay, the abandoned island at the south of the hebrides .

Join us this summer for an unforgettable adventure, experience the natural beauty of the Outer Hebrides. Take in the stunning scenery and encounter amazing wildlife on boat tour!

**All trips subject to weather and minimum booking numbers**

The Experts

Guide to the, waters around uist.

Take advantage of our years of experience on a Uist Sea Tours trip in the waters around Uist.

See the wildlife

In, under and around the wild atlantic and minch.

From Seals to Killer Whales, Sea Eagles to Dolphins and rare Puffins on Mingulay, keep your eyes out for the unique wildlife of the Hebrides!

Private Hire

Personalized trips available for small and large groups.

Create your own fun-filled itinerary for unique one of a kind trips around the Hebrides.

Why not add a taste of the Hebrides to your trip, we supply fresh Lobster, Scallop, Crab and Langoustine/Prawn straight from the sea!! Contact us for more details...

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Puffins of Mingulay - Uist Sea Tours

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Wildlife boat tour. Fascinating to see the nest of golden eagles and prancing dolphins surfacing... read more

I went on the St Kilda boat trip with Uist Sea Tours on the 8th June and it is still my every... read more

Puffins of Mingulay

We had an amazing trip! We would highly recommend. The boat journey was comfortable and we felt we were in good hands. Starting from Eriskay and travelling down the east coasts to Mingulay. Mingulay did not disappoint. We had plenty of time to explore the island and to find the Puffins. The return journey was spectacular, around the west coast of Mingulay.

I enjoyed seeing dolphins close-up and gannets diving. The boat was skilfully handled and the skipper was knowledgeable. Two hours at sea was just the right length. It would be worth making clear that the tour is in a boat with cabin, not a rib.

What a magical experience. We sailed to Mengulay to see the puffins and experienced a lot more. Our experienced and knowledgeable skipper took us round the West of the island, warning us before hand that it may be ‘a bit bumpy’. He skilfully negotiated what looked like walls of water coming at us! We all enjoyed a thrilling white knuckle ride. We saw the towering cliffs before reaching the calm East side of the island. I love a bit of drama and I felt very safe at the same time. We climbed onto the rocks and up over the cliffs to see the puffins as they flew back and forth from their burrows. It was fabulous. Bring binoculars or a long lens for your camera to ensure a good look. The weather was unexpectedly lovely and we enjoyed exploring the ruins of the old village. Some of the group went over the island to get a look over the second highest cliffs in the UK. We went to the gorgeous beach and went in for a swim. The large population of grey seals came to have a nosey at this pasty white Scottish woman swimming in their water. It was the most amazing thing I have ever experienced! On the way back I spotted several whales (loudly to the rest of the group) only to be gently informed by Davy the skipper that those were in fact rocks, commonly classed as whales by tourists like me! I learned a lot about the way of life on the islands from the chat on the boat. If you get the chance, do this tour!

Superb trip to Mingulay. David and Sean Neil were very engaging and knowledgeable. They gave us info on the island and what to expect once they ensured we got ashore safely. On the way back they took us around the western side of the island so we got to see the spectacular cliffs AND they took us under the arch which was a special treat for us. Given the sea conditions, it was touch and go whether we'd make it through the arch, but David didn't disappoint with his expert nautical skills! We got to see dolphins, seals, lots of different species of sea birds and to top it off, on the way back we saw a Minke Whale! This trip is a must for any visitor to the islands.

I originally had booked the trip to Mingulay, which understandably is always weather /sea dependent. I was a two week trip around the Outer Hebrides relying on public transport, so was very fortunate the skipper kindly picked me up my accommodation from Lochboisdale, South Uist to make the journey to Eriskay. What a beautiful part of the world this is, fantastic journey to Eriskay. Unfortunately the sailing conditions were too choppy to get to Mingulay (the right decision by a very experienced skipper) but I opted to stay on the boat and sail around the coast. I will gladly try again. Even though didn't get to Mingulay, still a memorable experience, I hope to return one summer and try again

Great experience, lovely scenery and amazing dolphins! David was very helpful and accomodating, and let the dolphins come to the boat without chasing them. Could not have wished for anything more. As a bonus, we also had sunny weather and the sea was like a mirror.

Isle of South Uist

At 124 square miles, South Uist (pronounced yoo-ist) is the second-largest island in the Outer Hebrides, yet it’s home to less than 2,000 people. Visitors to the island will quickly find themselves lost in a hauntingly beautiful landscape where nature thrives across mile after mile of white powder beaches to the west and heather-covered hills to the east.

The island is also home to many of Scotland’s most iconic animals, such as the elusive corncrake and sea eagle, as well as red deer, which roam the island’s windswept uplands. Discover more information about this remarkable island in this ultimate South Uist visitor guide

The Outer Hebrides comprise more than 70 islands which form a 130-mile chain off the west coast of Scotland. Only 15 of these islands are inhabited with the largest ( Harris and Lewis) situated to the north of the archipelago followed by the Uists to the south. The Uists are split into the islands of North and South Uist, which are separated in the middle by Benbecula, with two smaller islands positioned to the immediate north (Berneray) and south ( Ersikay ).

All of the Uist islands are joined by roads and causeways meaning a holiday on one can easily include trips to the others, and thanks to a network of ferries, tourists can also easily include visits to the islands of Barra and Harris.

It’s fair to say the Uist islands make a great base to explore the Outer Hebrides, but in my opinion, South Uist is the pick of the bunch. There are two reasons for that. The first is that the South Uist beaches run almost uninterrupted along the island’s entire western coastline.

Starting from the Eriskay causeway and finishing at the Benbecula causeway, the beaches on South Uist are wide, impeccably clean, and have the most powder-white sand you’re ever likely to see in Scotland.

The second reason is the east side of the island,, which has an incredible mixed landscape of sweeping heather-covered moorland and dramatic rolling hillsinterspersed with hundreds of lochs and lochans,, which are bordered by a wild and beautifully unspoilt coastline.

As far as tourist attractions are concerned, well… there aren’t many to speak of to be honest as the majority of activities revolve around enjoying the scenery, but I have to give a mention to the Kildonan Centre which is located pretty much in the centre of the island and features an interesting museum about the island’s heritage.

There’s a good cafe and a wee gift shop in the centre and it’s also situated close to the ruins of Flora Macdonald’s birthplace so anyone with an interest in history will enjoy a visit to this local museum. That being said, as it’s pretty much the only indoor attraction on the island,, it’s best left for the inevitable wet and windy afternoons when you can’t face going outside.

The other attraction worth mentioning is Loch Druidibeg National Nature Reserve which is absolutely stunning from late spring to early autumn when the surrounding hills bloom with flowering heather and flocks of migrating birds can be seen circling overhead.

The road leading to Loch Druidibeg from Kinloch cuts across the island to Loch Sgioport on a tarmacked route that’s fairly undulating but is recommended for an enjoyable cycle. This road is also a good starting point for hikes up Beinn Mhor, which is the only Graham (a mountain between 2,000 and 2,500 feet) in the Outer Hebrides.

Hiking Beinn Mhor is tricky due to the barren landscape, and it’s rather easy to find yourself off-course, which is why a map of South Uist is a necessity if you really want to make the most of the island.

The Highlights

1: South Uist has two distinct regions that are both worth exploring during a tour of the Outer Hebrides. The west side of the island is home to a collection of stunning white sand beaches while the east side is more dramatic with long hill ridges and a rocky shoreline. Visiting this island is a delight for families and solo adventures alike, as there are ample opportunities for lazy beach days as well as long hikes into one of the remotest places in Scotland.

2: The Loch Druidibeg National Nature Reserve is absolutely stunning and is widely regarded as one of the finest nature reserves in Britain. Across 34 square kilometres, you will see birds such as lapwings, corncrakes, white-tailed eagles, and hen harriers in a landscape that includes a freshwater loch and mile upon mile of unspoilt moorland.

3: Thanks to causeways at the northern and southern ends of South Uist it’s easy to drive in either direction to see Benbecula (north) and Eriskay (south). These two islands offer superb walks along coastal roads and they’re more than worthy of a day trip on their own, or perhaps on a tour by bicycle.

Visitors interested in cycling from the bottom of Erisaky, through South Uist, across Benbecula, and up to the top of North Uist will find more information at the official Hebridean Way website .

Visiting Tips

1: Facilities in South Uist are few and far between so if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation I highly recommend taking as much food with you as possible. There’s a supermarket in Carnan near the causeway but I personally prefer the Co-op located just across the other side of the bridge on Benbecula.

2: There aren’t many things to do indoors on this island, so you might consider saving a visit to Kildonan Museum for a rainy day. The museum is small but interesting and offers an hour or so of wandering around the exhibits before picking up a souvenir in the gift shop and heading to the cafe for lunch.

If the weather brightens after a tour of the museum, head south on the A865 and then take the first right to see the remains of Flora MacDonald ‘s house. You’ll find more things to do in South Uist further down this page.

3: With regard to parking, the best sites are located along the single-track coastal roads and tracks that run alongside the eastern coastline. There are several campsites in South Uist where it’s possible to wild camp or park a campervan near the beaches, but it’s strongly advised not to park on the machair (the wild grasses that grow next to the dunes).

The reason for this is that machair is one of the rarest habitats in Europe and protecting it is vital to the conservation of Scotland’s west coast wildlife such as corncrakes , plus many of the flowers that grow in the machair are endangered, including Hebridean spotted orchids and marsh orchids.

Tourist Information

There are three main options for getting to South Uist depending on how you intend to see the Outer Hebrides. If you’re touring the Hebridean Way then you will either start on the Isle of Lewis and head south, or start on the Isle of Vatersay and head north.

Vatersay tends to be the standard Hebridean Way starting point and there are ferries sailing from Oban on the mainland to Castlebay on Barra which can be combined with another crossing from Ardmhor on Barra to Eriskay which then joins South Uist via a causeway.

If travelling in the opposite direction you will depart from Ullapool on the mainland and sail into Stornoway on Lewis followed by a drive to Leverburgh on North Harris where you can then catch a ferry to Berneray island which has a causeway linking it to North Uist .

The third option is to sail directly into Lochboisdale on the South Uist from Oban, and this is what I personally recommend for visitors that intend to spend the majority of their holiday on the Uists. Lochboisdale is the largest village on South Uist, but ‘large’ has to be taken into context with such a remote island as there are only around 300 residents and just a handful of amenities, including a cafe, a bank, and a post office.

The rest of the island has a smattering of isolated settlements along the flat eastern side and barely any houses at all on the western side due to the mountainous landscape, which basically means South Uist could be the ultimate island getaway for visitors looking to chill out for a few days.

As far as sightseeing goes, bear in mind that due to its large size and small population almost all attractions revolve around the great outdoors, although access to most of the island is very limited, to say the least.

Visitors without a car can make use of the local bus service (number W17 runs north to south through Uist) but the buses are rather infrequent so I wouldn’t plan your holiday around them. The official council website has downloadable timetables which are worth saving to your phone, just in case.

There’s one main road that crosses the island north to south (the A865) along with a few side roads that deviate west to the beaches, but there are very few roads that head into the mountainous eastern half of the island so tourists are few and far between in that region.

A welcome side effect of having few human visitors is that wildlife thrives on South Uist, so if you have a pair of binoculars (link to my recommended optics) I strongly suggest taking them with you.

On South Uist, vast expanses of machair—wildflowers and grasses—back the windswept beaches and are home to many different species, including geese, corncrakes, lapwings, and others. In the sky above, white-tailed eagles and hen harriers are frequently on the lookout for their next meal. Otters are a common sight around the coastline, and red deer roam the wild moorland, both of which are best viewed in the Loch Druidibeg nature reserve.

Perhaps the highlight of seeing South Uist’s wildlife is heading out onto the open water for a guided boat tour to view the famed South Hebridean seals, dolphins, orcas and minke whales that come to the area throughout the year.

The amount of marine wildlife around the Uist islands is one of the highest in Scotland so joining a boat tour is an absolute must-do in my opinion. There are several operators to choose from but Uist Sea Tours are highly recommended.

With regard to accommodation, the main options on South Uist are wild camping and self-catering rentals. Be aware that rental accommodation is usually fully booked months in advance of the tourist season, so I suggest looking at least 6 months beforehand to secure a place. You might be lucky and find somewhere decent on Airbnb, but by far the best website for B&Bs and guesthouses is the official South Uist website .

If you have a campervan and are wondering where the best hardstanding location is, I thoroughly recommend Kilbride campsite on the southern edge of the island which has a cafe, Wi-Fi, and fabulous views overlooking the islands of Eriskay and Barra.

Finally, if you intend to wild camp you’re free to pitch a tent wherever you like but be mindful of South Uist’s fragile machair and take note that you will be expected to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code . The code is very common-sense and basically asks campers to be responsible by following guidelines, including:

• Take away all your litter.
• Remove all traces of your tent pitch and of any open fire.
• Do not cause any pollution.

If you’re considering wild camping or pitching in a designated campsite but don’t yet own a tent, check out these recommendations which will suit all budgets.

Things to Do

Visit the Kildonan Museum: Uncover South Uist’s rich history and culture at the Kildonan Museum. This local hub features artefacts, exhibits, and displays that tell the story of the island’s past. An on-site cafe offers delicious home-cooked food and a small shop sells unique gifts and souvenirs.

Explore the Loch Druidibeg Reserve: This nature reserve is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Home to a variety of wildlife including bird species ranging from hen harriers to cuckoos, it offers visitors the chance to lose themselves in South Uist’s stunning landscapes.

Walk the Hebridean Way: Stretching across the length of the Outer Hebrides, this long-distance walking route is one of the island chain’s most popular activities. The section of the route on South Uist is particularly attractive, passing through moorland, lochs, and heather-covered hills.

See the Our Lady of the Isles Statue: This impressive statue is a significant landmark on South Uist. It’s a serene spot for contemplation and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and out across the pounding waves of the Atlantic.

Try Local Cuisine: South Uist is renowned for its fresh seafood. Visit one of the local restaurants or pubs to sample locally-caught shellfish, fish, and a range of traditional Scottish dishes.

Things to Do Nearby

Isle of Benbecula . Address: Creagorry, Isle of Benbecula, HS7 5PG. Benbecula is an island located immediately north of South Uist. A short causeway joins the two islands, allowing visitors to easily drive between them. Highlights of Benbecula are the attractive coastal road that follows the eastern shoreline and Reuval hill which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Southern Hebrides.

Kildonan Museum . Address: Kildonan, Isle of South Uist, HS8 5RZ. This museum is dedicated to the culture and heritage of South Uist. The museum features a number of displays and artefacts that depict rural life on the island from crofting to fishing, along with stone carvings and a photo archive. There’s a cafe next to the museum that serves home-cooked local produce and a gift shop that sells tourist guidebooks and maps of South Uist.

Frobost Headland & Beach . Address: Isle of South Uist, HS8 5SA. The Frobost headland lies immediately north of Kildonan Beach. Parking at St. Mary’s Catholic Church (postcode HS8 5SA) and walking west to the track’s end make for a pleasant stroll. Along the way, you’ll see the remnants of a Viking settlement before reaching the headland, which is home to a wide variety of seabirds. There’s a rough grass parking area at the headland that is suitable for mid-size motorhomes.

Flora MacDonald’s House . Address: A865, Mingarry, South Uist. Flora MacDonald is famous for helping Bonnie Prince Charlie escape to France after his defeat at the Battle of  Culloden . The Clan MacDonald-erected memorial cairn and the house’s foundation walls are both still standing.

Our Lady of the Isles . Address: West Gerinish, Isle of South Uist, HS8 5RW. Our Lady of the Isles is a large statue situated near Gernish in the southern half of South Uist. The islanders commissioned and paid for the 40-ton statue to demonstrate their devotion to the Virgin Mary and the Catholic way of life. A path leads to the statue from the A865, which allows visitors to appreciate the stunning views across the Atlantic from a raised viewing platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main town on south uist.

There is no town on South Uist. The main village is Lochboisdale which is located on the shore of Loch Baghasdail on the southeast edge of the island. Lochboisdale was a major herring fishing port in the 19th century but today it’s mostly used as a ferry port with sailings to Oban on the mainland.

Why is South Uist Catholic?

The Scottish Reformation of the 1500s led to a major change in Scottish society when the papacy of Rome was rejected in favour of Scottish Protestantism. Prior to this, the majority of Scotland was Catholic.

Although the new Presbyterian religion flourished throughout Scotland, due to their remoteness and lack of influence from the mainland, South Uist and the Isle of Barra remained predominantly Catholic.

What language do they speak in South Uist?

All of the permanent residents in South Uist speak English and approximately 80% speak both Gaelic and English. Gaelic is one of the oldest languages in Europe and the Uist islands are one of the last strongholds where the majority of people still speak it.

Can you drive between North and South Uist?

It is possible to drive from the southernmost point of South Uist to the northernmost point of North Uist. From the Eriskay causeway, the B888 heads into South Uist, where it joins the A865. This road continues north over the causeway to Benbecula, across the North Ford causeway to Grimsay and North Uist, and onwards to the B893, which finishes at the Berneray causeway.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Isles of Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay

White shell-sand Atlantic beaches, flower strewn machair on the west coast and moorland stretching to the rugged east side, you are sure to enjoy the beauty of these islands. 

Discover South Uist’s hidden delights

If you’re travelling south, Benbecula (Beinn na Faoghla) and South Uist follow North Uist.  If you travel straight down the main road from Benbecula, you’ll be in Eriskay in 45 minutes.  So make some turns from the main road and discover interesting aspects of the Hebrides that could fascinate you for several days.

Balavanich is certainly the the commercial centre of Benbecula and the Uists, but that really means a smattering of shops for essentials, Stepping Stones restaurant*, Chinese takeaway*, filling station, hospital and an airport offering services to the mainland. There are also a few shops selling local products of interest to visitors, including tweed.

Benbecula is a very small island, where you may try a round of golf, perhaps, or explore the local heritage at the iron age fort at Nunton Steadings.  There’s a long stretch of white-sanded Atlantic beaches on the west coast around Shell Bay and Culla Bay.

South of Benbecula, the Isle of South Uist – Uibhist a Deas – seems somehow softer and greener than the islands to the north, with a central, hilly spine. There are stunning white shell-sand Atlantic beaches and flower strewn machair on the west coast, while the east side is more rugged.

At Grogarry, turn into the Loch Druidibeg National Nature Reserve, an area of striking contrasts, where the colourful flowery machair grassland of the Atlantic coast of South Uist gradually gives way to lochs and moorland. It’s a haven for wild life and for the Eriskay ponies that roam the moor. There’s a walk to Loch Sgioport at the road end.

The picturesque village of Howmore (Tobha Mor)has traditional thatched croft houses, ruined churches and a beautiful beach.  The unusual village Church has a communion table running the full length of the centre aisle.

From Howmore, there’s a pleasant diversion around some of the coastal hamlets of South Uist. This is an excellent cycling area and a little further south, the heritage and cultural centre at Kildonan has a museum, craft shop and cafe.

At Lochboisdale, the ‘capital’ of South Uist, there is limited shopping, plus Calmac ferries to Oban on the mainland and to Castlebay on the neighbouring island of Barra.  Most of our guests will arrive or depart on using the Castlebay-Barra ferry and the small Barra/Eriskay ferry to transfer between the islands.  This is an area that’s popular with our holiday guests for their accommodation before or after taking the Barra ferry.

From South Uist to Eriskay

South Uist has an exceptionally attractive southern coastline, with small beaches and traditional cottages at the shore side.  You’ll reach Eriskay by crossing a mile-long causeway.  This is a pretty island, ablaze with wild flowers in season.  An hour or two spent exploring here will reveal tiny harbours, old cottages and Bonnie Prince Charlie’s beach (worth a good walk).  If you arrive well before the ferry departure time, enjoy refreshment in the Politician Inn, celebrating the SS Politician, which sank and lost its, “Whisky Galore.”

* Note: we have tested both Stepping Stones and the takeaway across the road.  Both recommended.

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Uist Sea Tours

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Uist Sea Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

WHAT TO DO ON UIST

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BEST THINGS TO DO ON UIST

THE OUTER HEBRIDES

In this guide we share the best things to do on Uist, along with extensive information on where to stay, the best places to eat and drink, how to get to the islands, and how to get around when you’re there. We also offer a detailed map and practical travel tips to help your trip run smoothly.

A long string of islands, Uist lies at the centre of the group that makes up the Outer Hebrides, Scotland’s Western Isles. Linked by causeways, this island chain stretches from Eriskay in the south to Berneray in the north, via South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, and North Uist, with Uist serving as the collective name.

The western, Atlantic facing half of Uist is typically flat, with beautiful white sand beaches and extensive stretches of fertile machair. The eastern half is significantly hillier, with countless lochs, inlets, and skerries punctuating a jagged coastline.

With fantastic scenery, nature walks of varying lengths and difficulties, mouthwatering local food and drink, and exciting boat trips to uninhabited islands, there’s a lot to keep you busy. So whether you’re planning to visit Uist (pronounced yoo – ist) as part of an Outer Hebrides island hopping adventure which includes Barra , Harris and Lewis , or as a trip all on its own, be sure to allow at least a few days to properly explore.

WATCH OUR UIST FILM

Watch our instagram stories from the outer hebrides.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three

WHAT TO SEE AND DO ON UIST

Best beaches on uist.

BERNERAY WEST BEACH CLACHAN SANDS HOSTA BEACH BALRANALD BEACH BALESHARE BEACH PRINCE’S BEACH

BEST SHORT WALKS ON UIST

LOCH EYNORT ARINABAN WOODLAND WALK LOCH DRUIDIBEG & LOCH SKIPPORT WALKS SCOLPAIG COASTLINE AND PLUNGE POOL

BEST LONGER WALKS ON UIST

VALLAY TIDAL ISLAND UDAL PENINSULA BALRANALD NATURE RESERVE HILLWALKING ON UIST

UIST CULTURE AND CRAFTS

NORTH UIST DISTILLERY HOWMORE COTTAGES & RUINS TAIGH CHEARSABHAGH MUSEUM LONG ISLAND RETREATS SHORELINE STONEWARE UIST WOOL

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM UIST

MINGULAY DAY TRIP ST KILDA DAY TRIP LADY ANNE BOAT TRIP

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO UIST

UIST MAP TRAVEL TIPS WHERE TO EAT & DRINK WHERE TO STAY ON UIST HOW TO GET TO UIST HOW TO GET AROUND

LOCH EYNORT ARINABAN WOODLAND WALK

LOCH DRUIDIBEG & LOCH SKIPPORT WALKS

SCOLPAIG COASTLINE AND PLUNGE POOL

NORTH UIST DISTILLERY HOWMORE COTTAGES & RUINS TAIGH CHEARSABHAGH MUSEUM & ARTS CENTRE LONG ISLAND RETREATS SHORELINE STONEWARE UIST WOOL

*Some of the links in this post are affiliate links – if you purchase a product or service via these links, we may earn a small commission  at no extra cost to you . This helps offset the cost of running this blog and keeps us travelling so that we can continue to produce great content for you. We greatly appreciate your support!*

We have created a detailed Uist map to accompany this guide, which can be used online or offline to navigate during your trip and quickly pinpoint all of the places mentioned here. This includes the key sights outlined in our ‘Best Beaches’ and ‘Uist Culture and Crafts’ sections, along with all of the walking routes, our recommended food stops, accommodation, and practical info such as supermarkets, petrol stations, and public toilets. It is the perfect companion to this written guide. 

There is no shortage of attractive beaches on Uist, but a few favourites stand out above all others. From north to south, these are our top picks for the best beaches on Uist. Note that these are all easily accessible from nearby car parks. Some other great beaches which require a bit more effort to get to are included in our Best Longer Walks section.

BERNERAY WEST BEACH // BERNERAY

Berneray west beach //.

Stretching along the entire west coast of Berneray, this beauty has been voted one of Europe’s top beaches for 2022 by Lonely Planet . With 5 km of brilliant white sand it’s ideal for a long windswept walk, or equally great for a secluded picnic in the tall, machair-covered dunes behind. There are wonderful views across to the small island of Pabbay and the hills of Harris beyond.

CLACHAN SANDS // NORTH UIST

Clachan sands //.

Situated at the top of North Uist, Clachan Sands is a gorgeous white sand beach stretching 4km or so, with an informal grassy camping area dividing the beach in two. Traigh Hornais gently curves around to the southwest, with Traigh Lingeigh arcing northeast. Backed by extensive machair, it’s a spectacular setting with views across to the Udal Peninsula and small island of Boreray.

HOSTA BEACH // NORTH UIST

Hosta beach //.

This gem of a beach (Traigh Stir in Gaelic) is the top surf beach on Uist, but is also a beautiful spot for non-surfers too. Backed by machair-covered dunes and tucked between two small rocky headlands, Hosta feels both secluded and cosy. It also makes a great wild camp spot.

Hosta Beach lies between two small headlands, popular with surfers but great too for a stroll or for camping in the dunes

Hosta Beach lies between two small headlands, popular with surfers but great too for a quiet stroll or for camping in the dunes

BALRANALD BEACH // NORTH UIST

Balranald beach.

NORTH UIST //

The curve of white sand at Balranald is a beautiful spot for a stroll, dip, or picnic, where you can enjoy the fresh seafood delights on offer at the nearby Dunes Cabin. It’s an all-round favourite, attracting everyone from wildlife lovers (thanks to its location on an RSPB Nature Reserve) to families holidaying at the nearby campsite.

BALESHARE BEACH // NORTH UIST

Baleshare beach //.

Baleshare is a small island connected to North Uist by causeway, which makes for an especially scenic drive to the informal parking area on the edge of a field. The beach itself is a long stretch of flat sand sloping almost imperceptibly into the sea, and is another great spot for a dip. Rocky sections punctuate the beach, creating interesting features that change in appearance between low and high tide. Being a bit further from the road than some of the other best beaches on Uist, Baleshare is often quiet, and at nearly 6 km long it’s easy to find a private spot for yourself.

The water at Baleshare Beach stays shallow for some distance, making it a great spot for a calm and relaxing dip

PRINCE’S BEACH // ERISKAY

Prince’s beach //.

Situated on the west coast of Eriskay, Prince’s Beach (so called after Bonnie Prince Charlie who landed here in 1745) is a picturesque stretch of white sand backed by grass and sea bindweed. It’s generally a sheltered spot and is great for swimming, although as with every beach on Uist, the water is cold! The ferry terminal for Barra is just south of the beach, making this a great spot to stop off on your way to or from the southernmost islands of the Outer Hebrides.

Prince’s Beach, close to the ferry terminal on Eriskay, is generally a sheltered spot that’s good for a swim

Prince’s Beach, close to the ferry terminal on Eriskay, is generally a sheltered spot that’s good for a swim 

SHORT WALKS ON UIST

Often the best way to get out and explore a place is on foot, and Uist has endless opportunities to do just that. These are a few of our favourite short walks, all 1.5 hours or less.

LOCH EYNORT ARINABAN WOODLAND // SOUTH UIST

Loch eynort arinaban woodland walk //.

Heading east off the main road running south to north through Uist leads you through a beautiful landscape of hills and lochs. The Arinaban Woodland walk lies at the end of the North Locheynort road, a fantastic out-and-back trail along the lochside, or a loop around the hillside. The walk starts from a small parking area at the end of the road. Nearby, a hand painted map of the route shows the various trails through Croft No.8, as well as the location of numerous benches and tables (perfect for a picnic!).

Whichever trail you decide to take, the initial section follows a narrow footpath through trees. It then emerges on an open hillside with wonderful views over the sea loch. You can turn right for a side trip down to a small bay, keep straight to carry on along the lochside, or turn left to loop around the eastern slopes of Beinn Bheag Dheas. We’ve marked a possible 5 km route on our map . It can be a bit muddy in places, so proper footwear is recommended.

A view of Loch Eynort from the west, with the trail running along the hillside above the loch

LOCH DRUIDIBEG AND LOCH SKIPPORT // SOUTH UIST

Loch druidibeg and loch skipport walks //.

Another scenic side trip off the main north-south road on Uist, the road to Loch Skipport (Loch Sgioport) leads to a couple of great short walks with the opportunity to spot birds of prey and wild ponies.

LOCH DRUIDIBEG

The first recommended walk is around Loch Druidibeg , a beautiful inland loch surrounded by heather moorland and some of the highest hills on Uist. Park at the designated car park about 2 km along the road, location number 10 of the Outer Hebrides Bird of Prey Trail .

Loch Druidibeg, with Beinn na Laire and Hecla risng immediately behind, Beinn Choradail just visible, and Beinn Mhór on the far right

Loch Druidibeg, with Beinn na Laire and Hecla the two peaks on the ridge behind

A series of footpaths, boardwalks, and bridges lead southwest across moorland and strips of land with the loch either side. This area is a breeding ground for short-eared owl, hen harrier, and merlin, with possible sightings of golden eagles and white-tailed eagles too.

The trail, which is part of the much longer Hebridean Way , continues for about 3 km before reaching the main road, with some boggy sections. Head out and back the same way, or if you fancy a longer walk you can carry on to the machair on the western side of the island and loop back to the car park via the road ( follow the trail description and route map outlined here ).

LOCH SKIPPORT

Continuing down the road and taking the right fork as you near the end will lead you to a small parking area by Loch Skipport , another good eagle-spotting location. There’s also a very high chance of bumping into some shetland ponies that roam wild around here, a 50+ strong herd belonging to the nearby crofting family at Long Island Retreats .

Carrying on down the potholed track beyond the parking area on foot, you’ll come to an old wooden jetty, with lovely views across the sea loch. The Bird of Prey Trail follows a track through the hills to the south of the parking area, up to some old shielings and along the coast for about 1 km.

Looking out towards the sea from a viewpoint above Loch Skipport, with the Isle of Skye seen faintly on the horizon

SCOLPAIG PLUNGE POOL AND COASTLINE // NORTH UIST

Scolpaig plunge pool and rocky coastline //.

On the west coast of North Uist, there is a dramatic rocky coastline to the south of Scolpaig which includes a natural plunge pool overlooking the sea. To reach it, park on the grassy verge beside the main road, just beyond a cross on the hillside to the left (if approaching from the south) and before the track on the left leading to a large house with sculpted edges (see our map for the exact location).

The plunge pool (bottom left third in picture) and the rocky coastline near Scolpaig

The plunge pool on the coast near Scolpaig, accessed from above via the rocky chute

Go through the gate, then head west across the open hillside. When you reach the coast, turn left and head south just a little, looking out for a rocky chute with the plunge pool at the bottom. You can climb down the rocks to get close to the pool, although swimming in it isn’t always possible due to the buildup of algae. The location is spectacular, well worth the 10 minute walk from the road!

LONGER WALKS ON UIST

There are plenty of beautiful beaches and interesting sights on Uist which require a longer journey on foot to best explore. These are a few of our recommended longer walks, between about 1.5 and 3 hours in length.

VALLAY TIDAL ISLAND // NORTH UIST

Vallay tidal island //.

The uninhabited tidal island of Vallay (Bhalaigh) is home to the enigmatic ruins of an enormous house built by Erskine Beveridge, a wealthy linen industrialist from Fife, and has a number of beautiful beaches on its northern shores. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the island, walking across an open expanse of sand and mud flats exposed at low tide.

It takes about 30 minutes to walk across an open expanse of sand at low tide to reach Vallay Island

Approaching the island, the big house looms on the left, with the ruins of smaller farmhouse buildings on the right. The house is unlike any other on Uist, a baronial style mansion with dozens of rooms spread over two floors. The prominent crow-stepped gables are perhaps a nod to Beveridge’s Fife roots, where this style of architecture is common in historic buildings. Built around 1902, the house has been uninhabited since 1944 when Erskine’s son, George, drowned while crossing between North Uist and Vallay by boat. The harsh Atlantic weather has since taken its toll, and with the roof and much of the interior having collapsed, only the shell remains.

Only the shell remains of Erskine Beveridge’s grand house

Only the shell remains of Beveridge’s grand house

Passing by the house and continuing to the northern side of the island will lead you to some beautiful beaches. Curves of white sand framed by dark coloured rocks spread out to the west and east, peaceful spots although with some very vocal oystercatchers. The hills of Harris rise to the northeast and the vast expanse of the Atlantic stretches off to the west.

Unless you plan on camping overnight, be sure to head back before the tide starts coming in, which can happen quite fast. It’s best to allow around 2 – 2.5 hours for the return trip, aiming to cross about two hours before low tide . There is space for a few cars to park at the start of the walk, in the small township of Cladach Vallay (see our map for the exact location and walking route).

Beautiful and quiet beaches on the northern side of Vallay

Beautiful beaches on the northern side of Vallay

UDAL PENINSULA // NORTH UIST

Udal peninsula //.

A loop around the Udal Peninsula takes in gorgeous beaches as well as archaeological sites dating back to Neolithic times. There is a fantastic audio walking tour you can follow which tells you all about the history and wildlife of the peninsula, narrated by members of the local community. The tour is available on the izi.travel app ( iOS / Android ). Download the app and search for North Uist to find it.

Park at the end of the road at Grenitote, where a track leads along the wide sandy bay of Traigh Ear towards the headland. Here you’ll find the 18th century cemetery of the MacLeans of Boreray, with the island itself lying just across the water. Crossing to the western side of the peninsula you’ll find Traigh Udal, a scenic curve of white sand beach. Heading south you’ll reach the impressive remains of a 1500 – 2000 year old roundhouse, excavated in the late 20th century. Beyond here lies the beautiful expanse of Traigh Iar, sweeping southwest towards Vallay. Take a walk along the beach, before looping back to the start.

Allow around 3 hours for the walk, which is 10 km or so. You can view and download the route on our map , and read about and/or listen to the history and significance of the peninsula on the izi website .

BALRANALD NATURE RESERVE // NORTH UIST

Balranald reserve //.

Balranald, as mentioned in our best beaches on Uist section, is an RSPB Nature Reserve. For those with an interest in birds and wildlife it’s well worth exploring beyond the beach itself. There is a waymarked trail leading around the rocky headland south of the beach, a 6 km loop starting from the parking area by the visitor centre.

The trail at the Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve leads around the southern end of the beach to a rocky headland

The Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve trail leads around the southern end of the beach to a rocky headland

Balranald is a haven for wildlife, including birds of prey, otters, and the rare corncrake. The walk, which takes around 1.5 hours, takes in a variety of landscapes and terrain, including fertile machair, sand dunes, rocky coastline, marshes, lochs, and ocean habitats. The highlights change throughout the seasons, and before setting off it’s well worth popping into the visitor centre, housed in a small whitewashed cottage. Here you’ll find a wealth of information as well as a list of recent wildlife sightings.

There is a map of the route inside the visitor centre, and you can view and download it on our map too. Public toilets are also available at the visitor centre.

HILLWALKING ON UIST

While the hills on the eastern half of Uist may not be overly high in comparison to those on mainland Scotland, they are an impressive sight looming over this otherwise low-lying landscape. If you’re looking for a somewhat challenging day hike on pathless terrain, tackling one of the island’s tallest peaks could be for you.

Eaval (Eabhal) is the highest in North Uist at 347 m, its prominent peak visible from all over the island. Count on the 11 km return hike taking about 5.5 hours. Note that the stepping stones over the outflow of water from Loch Obasaraigh (less than 1 km from the start of the walk) can be covered at high tide, so it’s best to plan your walk accordingly. You can read a full trail description on WalkHighlands .

Eaval (Eabhal), the highest peak on North Uist, rising above the surrounding low-lying landscape to a height of 347 m

Eaval, the highest peak on North Uist, rising above the surrounding low-lying landscape to a height of 347 m

Beinn Mhór is South Uist’s highest peak at 620 m, offering fantastic views over the islands from the summit (weather permitting of course!). You can start the hike from Loch Eynort (the same spot as the Arinaban Woodland walk), approaching from the south, however approaching from the north is considered easier. This is the route outlined on WalkHighlands , and the one we would suggest following. Allow around 7 hours for the 12.5 km return hike, and longer if you plan to take in Hecla too, as per the WH route description.

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For an insight into Uist culture and the chance to pick up some quality local craftware and products, don’t miss the following interesting spots and experiences.

NORTH UIST DISTILLERY // NUNTON STEADINGS, BENBECULA

North uist distillery //.

NUNTON STEADINGS, BENBECULA

North Uist Distillery is one of the most exciting startups on Uist, the island’s first (legal) distillery currently producing excellent craft gin, with whisky coming in the future. Operating out of the 18th century Nunton Steadings, the chance to see inside this historic building is reason enough to pop by, but of course we’d highly recommend a gin tasting too.

The 18th century Nunton Steadings, home to North Uist Distillery

Having grown up on North Uist and, like many of the island’s younger population, moved to the mainland and beyond after school, co-founders Kate and Jonny returned to their island home in 2017 to set up the distillery and carve out a new life for themselves. Since then their small business has continued to grow, employing a dozen or so people locally and becoming an integral part of the community, not to mention winning a few gin awards along the way! In a region that is experiencing higher-than-average rates of population decline it’s great to see a vibrant new business like this opening up, providing job opportunities locally as well as being a fantastic addition to the Eat Drink Hebrides Trail .

The current North Uist Distillery line up includes their classic Downpour Scottish Dry Gin, along with a Pink Grapefruit Gin, Sloe & Bramble Gin, Coast & Croft, and a ready-to-drink Oak Aged Negroni. You can sample them all during a tasting session (£17.50 per person, book here ) which also includes a tour of the historic Nunton Steadings building. Or, grab a gin of your choice from the on-site bar and while away the afternoon in a courtyard deckchair. For gifts and take-home bottles, the shop is well stocked with T-shirts, totes, miniatures, and more.

A stylishly wrapped bottle of Downpour Oak-Aged Negroni ready to be enjoyed on a beach in the Outer Hebrides

A bottle of Downpour Oak-Aged Negroni ready to be enjoyed on a beach in the Outer Hebrides

HOWMORE // SOUTH UIST

Howmore is home to a number of traditional thatched cottages, as well as the ruins of various chapels dating from around 1200 AD. It’s a great spot for a quick wander, but if you fancy spending longer it’s also possible to stay at the atmospheric Howmore Hostel .

This whitewashed, thatched-roofed beauty is popular with those walking or cycling The Hebridean Way , providing basic accommodation in a beautiful setting. You can explore the historic ruins of the Teampull Mor Complex, a stone’s throw from the hostel, then head to the beach just a few hundred metres away, which stretches along the coast for miles.

The whitewashed, thatch-roofed Howmore Hostel

TAIGH CHEARSABHAGH MUSEUM & ARTS CENTRE // LOCHMADDY, NORTH UIST

Taigh chearsabhagh museum & arts centre //.

LOCHMADDY, NORTH UIST

This arts and Gaelic culture centre hosts rotating exhibitions, as well as being home to a gift shop, a cafe, and the local post office. It’s a great place to retreat to on a rainy day, and the outdoor cafe deck is equally as inviting when the sun is shining. Entrance to the galleries are free, and there is a £3 charge for the heritage exhibition. Check what’s currently on via the Taigh Chearsabhagh website .

LONG ISLAND RETREATS // LOCH SKIPPORT, SOUTH UIST

Long island retreats //.

LOCH SKIPPORT, SOUTH UIST

For an insight into crofting heritage and day-to-day life on a working croft, join DJ and Lindsay for a tour from their home at Loch Skipport. Long Island Retreats offer a variety of experiences, from sheep shearing in July, to machair, croft, and island tours. They can even introduce you to a few of their Shetland ponies, a 50+ herd each with a name and character all of their own.

A windswept shetland pony on the road to Loch Skipport

A windswept shetland pony near Loch Skipport

SHORELINE STONEWARE // NORTH UIST

Shoreline stoneware //.

Shoreline Stoneware gallery and pottery showcases work from Uist-based artists and those with strong ties to the islands. It’s a great place to pick up a special piece of the Hebrides to take home.

UIST WOOL // GRIMSAY

Uist wool //.

Wool production has been an important part of island life for centuries, and the tradition continues in style at Uist Wool on Grimsay. Using lovingly restored machinery dating back to the 19th century, Uist Wool produces high quality undyed yarns from native wool. Pop into their mill and wool centre to see the process in action, and to pick up beautifully crafted woollen goods.

DAY TRIPS FROM UIST

Although there is plenty to do on Uist, there are a few day trips we would highly recommend while visiting the islands.

DAY TRIP TO MINGULAY

Mingulay is an uninhabited island at the southern end of the Outer Hebrides. It is home to a large puffin colony, numerous other seabirds, a spectacular golden sand beach, the atmospheric ruins of an abandoned village, and some of the tallest sea cliffs in the British Isles. You can visit on a boat trip with Uist Sea Tours , departing from Eriskay Ferry Terminal. It takes around 1 hour to get to Mingulay, with the chance to spot dolphins and basking sharks on the way.

The bay on Mingulay where you’ll arrive and go ashore

Mingulay Bay, where you’ll arrive and go ashore

With no jetty or tourist infrastructure whatsoever on Mingulay, your island adventure starts with a scramble up the rocks, or perhaps a beach landing, whichever is considered safest on the day. You’ll have about 3 hours to explore Mingulay on foot, before returning to the boat for a spectacular trip around the sea cliffs and (weather permitting) through a huge natural sea arch.

Guillemots hanging out on the sea cliffs of Mingulay

Guillemots hanging out on the Mingulay sea cliffs

Between late April and early August, the puffin colony can be found on the grassy slopes to the northern side of the beach. The views from this spot are fantastic, looking out over turquoise water to the huge expanse of beach at Mingulay bay, backed by the ruined buildings of the village, abandoned in 1912. Sit quietly, wait patiently, and you’ll be rewarded with the incredible sight of puffins zooming around, popping in and out of their burrows to survey the land.

Outside their burrows

A puffin on the rocky ledge above the bay

Puffins outside their burrows

Besides puffin encounters, Mingulay is also a great place to spot seals. They sometimes haul out in huge numbers on the beach, but you are most likely to see them frolicking around in the bay. You can wander around the remains of the village and the restored former school building, or head off on a longer hike up Cnoc Mhic-a-Phi (MacPhee’s Hill) (224 m), to the sheer cliffs of Biulacraig (Eagle Cliff), or up Carnan (273 m) or Hecla (219 m).

There are no toilets or other facilities on Mingulay. There is a natural water source, which should be boiled or treated before drinking. The terrain is uneven, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. The weather can be very changeable, so you should pack waterproofs and warm clothing, as well as a hat, sunglasses, etc. Don’t forget to pack enough food and water for the 6 hour trip. There is no phone reception or data connection on the island. Tours cost £70 per person and run in good weather between approximately April and September.

See what a day trip to Mingulay is like in our Barra, Vatersay and Mingulay film below.

DAY TRIP TO ST KILDA

St Kilda is a small archipelago of rugged volcanic islands, sitting in the North Atlantic more than 40 miles west of Uist. These isolated isles are one of the few dual UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world, inscribed for both cultural and natural criteria.

A journey here is not for the faint hearted, with a 3 hour trip in each direction across often rough seas. But the reward for such an undertaking is the chance to witness tens of thousands of gannets circling above you, dive bombing the sea for their next catch. It’s the chance to imagine life 100 years ago for those who lived here, surviving largely off seabirds hunted by skilled cragsmen with heads for heights. And it’s the chance to feast your eyes upon the tallest sea cliffs and sea stacks in the British Isles, towering above you impressively as you bob around in the boat below. It’s a truly special place, and having made it as far as Uist, it’s well worth considering a day trip to St Kilda as well.

The view of Boreray, Stac Lee, and Stac an Armin from Hirta, the main island of St Kilda

A view of Boreray, Stac Lee, and Stac an Armin from Hirta, the main island of St Kilda

You can visit St Kilda once a week on Mondays between April and September with Hebridean Sea Tours , departing from Eriskay Ferry Terminal (weather permitting). Note that the Eriskay pick up/drop off option is not mentioned on their main booking page, but you can select this option at the confirmation stage. It’s a full day trip, typically lasting more than 12 hours, and costs £205. Booking well in advance is highly recommended.

You can read more about the history and significance of St Kilda and get practical tips for a visit to the islands in our dedicated St Kilda Travel Guide , and see more from St Kilda in our film below.

LADY ANNE WILDLIFE WATCHING BOAT TRIP

Departing from Kallin Harbour on Grimsay and skippered by Nick, the Lady Anne departs a few times a week between approximately May and September for a 2 hour wildlife viewing trip around neighbouring Ronay island. You’ll have the chance to see otters, red deer, dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds, plus an almost guaranteed sighting of a white tailed sea eagle! More details are available via their website and Facebook page , and you can call Nick on +44(0)7305163700 to book a trip (£40 per person).

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UIST TRAVEL TIPS & PRACTICALITIES

In order to make your visit run smoothly, there are a few things to be aware of when planning a trip to Uist. We go into more detail below, but in general it’s good to know that services such shops, banks, and petrol stations are only available in larger community hubs , and that many places close or have reduced opening hours on Sundays . Check the ‘Uist Practicalities’ markers on our map  for the location of everywhere mentioned in this guide.

The largest supermarkets on Uist are MacLennan’s in Balivanich (Benbecula), and the two Co-ops at Creagorry (Benbecula) and Daliburgh (South Uist), both of which are the only supermarkets open between 6pm – 10pm on Sundays. There are also smaller shops at Sollas, Bayhead, and Lochmaddy on North Uist, at Carnan on South Uist, and on Berneray and Eriskay too.

FUEL STATIONS

You can fill up fuel at Lochmaddy and Bayhead on North Uist, at Balivanich and Creagorry on Benbecula, and at Daliburgh and Lochboisdale on South Uist. The Seaview Filling Station at Balivanich and the Crossroads Filling Station at Creagorry are both pay-at-the-pump and accessible 24/7 .

ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING

There are a number of electric vehicle charging points throughout North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist, and Eriskay. We’ve marked the locations on our map .

There are a limited number of ATMs on Uist, found in Lochmaddy, Balivanich, Daliburgh, and Lochboisdale. Many places will accept card payments but it’s best to have cash too, so ideally withdraw enough cash for the duration of your trip.

UIST PUBLIC TOILETS AND SHOWERS

There are public toilets available at each of the CalMac ferry terminals: Berneray (24/7), Lochmaddy, Lochboisdale, and Eriskay (24/7). There are also toilets at Bernerary Harbour and the visitor centre at Balranald RSPB Reserve.

PHONE SIGNAL AND WIFI

Phone signal and data connection is generally good throughout Uist, and free public WiFi is available at each of the CalMac Ferry Terminals. Many cafes and other establishments also offer WiFi.

DRIVING ON SINGLE TRACK ROADS

You will come across single track roads often while driving around Uist. These have regular passing places, allowing you to pass oncoming traffic or let cars behind you safely overtake. Be sure to read up on how to drive on single track roads in advance, and watch this short animation video for a great visual overview.

WHERE TO EAT ON UIST

There are a range of options when it comes to eating out on Uist, including community cafes, food trucks, hotel restaurants, and more. Fresh local seafood is particularly good. The below is not an exhaustive list of food options on the islands, rather our top suggestions for where to eat on Uist.

Berneray Shop and Bistro | Classic cafe options for lunch, with a separate seafood-centred menu for dinner. Open May – September. Mon – Sat, 10am – 4pm (last orders 3pm for lunch), Dinner 6pm – 8.30pm (dinner reservations highly recommended – call +44 ( 0)1876 540288)

The Wee Cottage Kitchen | Food truck serving morning rolls, local seafood, sandwiches, hot drinks, baked goodies, etc. Open Mon – Sat, 10am – 3.30pm

The Dunes Cabin | Food truck operating out of the Balranald Hebridean Holidays campsite, next to RSPB Balranald. Hot rolls, local seafood, cakes, hot drinks, soup, etc. Open April – September: Tues – Fri, 11am – 3pm; Sat – Sun, 11am – 4pm

Kirkibost Cafe  | Community cafe serving lunch, hot drinks, cakes, etc. Locally made preserves, chutneys, etc. sold via the onsite Hebridean Kitchen . Usually open Tues – Thurs, 11.30am – 2.30pm (check their Facebook page for updates)

Langass Lodge | Fine dining, including local seafood. Lunch Mon – Fri (& Sun), Brunch Sat, 10.30am – 2pm, Dinner from 6pm. Reservations essential – call +44 (0)1876 580 285

The Wilder Kitchen | Unique dining experiences on the beach, prepared  on open fires by Langass Lodge chef, William Hamer. Booking essential, limited dates. Check Instagram and Facebook for updates

Taigh Chearsabhagh Cafe | Cafe at the museum and arts centre in Lochmaddy, serving soup, toasties, cakes, hot drinks, etc. Outdoor deck and indoor seating. Mon – Sat, 10am – 4pm (last orders 3.30pm)

Namara | Fresh seafood including scallops, lobster, langoustine, and crab in a no-frills cafe environment. Good value for money. Open Tues – Thurs, 9am – 4pm; Fri, 9am – 7pm; Sat 10am – 7pm

Charlie’s Bistro | Small restaurant focusing on local seafood and bistro classics. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  Mon – Thurs, 9am – 11pm; Fri, 9am – 1am; Sat, 10am – 1am. Advanced reservations for dinner recommended – call +44(0)1870 603242  

Borrodale Hotel | Restaurant open to non-residents. Open 7 days, 11am – late. R eservations recommended. Call +44( 0)1878 700444

Burnside Chip Shop | A petrol station that doubles up as a chippy! Decent fish suppers for takeaway only. Open Thurs – Sun, 8am – 7.30pm. Call +44(0)1878700184

Croft and Cuan | Takeaway food and good coffee at Lochboisdale pier, plus a mobile food truck attending events across Uist. Open Tues – Fri, 8am – 3pm; Sat, 10am – 3pm; Mon, 12pm – 3pm. Call +44( 0)1878 700117

Polochar Inn | Hotel bar and restaurant open to non-residents, brunch and dinner menu. Reservations recommended. Call +44( 0)1878 700215

Kilbride Cafe | Cafe with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the southern coast, part of the Kilbride Campsite. Morning rolls, all-day breakfast, soup, sandwiches, etc. Open Mon – Sat, 8.30 – 3.30pm; Sun, 11am – 3pm. Call +44( 0)1878 700008

Am Politician | Bar and restaurant named after the ship of Whisky Galore fame. Food served 7 days, 12pm – 8pm. Advance reservations highly recommended. Call +44( 0)1878 720246

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WHERE TO STAY ON UIST

There is a wide variety of accommodation options on Uist, from traditional inns and B&Bs, to glamping pods, hostels, and self-catering holiday homes. There are also a number of campsites, and wild camping is permitted in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code .

If you are travelling to Uist in a campervan, be sure to check this very handy pdf produced by Visit Outer Hebrides, listing chemical toilet disposal points, recycling points, and other places of relevance for campervanners. 

UIST HOSTELS AND BUNKHOUSES

Berneray Hostel | Traditional white-washed and thatched roof houses on the coast. No advanced bookings taken. Cash/cheque only

John’s Bunkhouse | Modern bunkhouse built in a traditional style

The Tractor Shed Pods and Bunkhouse | Turf-roofed camping pods and bunkhouse, campervan pitches too

Moorcroft Holidays Hostel | Small hostel overlooking a tidal bay, with campsite and glamping pods too

Nunton House Hostel | Large, historic building with four small en-suite dorm rooms

Howmore Hostel | Traditional thatched-roof white-washed cottage next to historic church ruins. Run by the same organisation as Berneray Hostel. No advance bookings taken, cash/cheque only

Kilbride Hostel | Located next to Kilbride Campsite and Kilbride Cafe. Six en-suite rooms of various sizes

UIST GLAMPING PODS

Air a’ Chroit Luxury Pods | T wo stylish pods with well appointed kitchenettes, bathrooms, and outdoor seating areas

Baleshare Bothies | Two cosy pods close to Baleshare Beach

Moorcroft Holidays Glamping | Three pods overlooking a tidal bay, sharing the grounds with the hostel and campsite

The Wee Haven | A cosy pod with an outdoor decking area

Uist Storm Pods | Two pods tucked into a hillside and overlooking a loch, close to Lochboisdale

Beag Na Haun Pod | Attractive pod with outdoor deck overlooking a tidal bay

UIST B&Bs

The Fisherman’s Snug B&B | Cosy snug in a family home with separate entrance, kitchenette, and bathroom

Benview B&B | Two rooms in a luxury B&B plus a separate lodge (with hot tub!)

Grianaig Guest House B&B | Modern, stylish B&B with four en-suite rooms

An Taigh Mor B&B | Three en-suite rooms in a modern home set in a beautiful location overlooking the Sound of Barra

UIST HOTELS

Hamersay House | Small hotel and brasserie in Lochmaddy

Langass Lodge | Former shooting lodge with acclaimed restaurant

Temple View Hotel | Convenient location on main road at the southern end of North Uist

Dark Island Hotel | Country-style hotel, bar, and restaurant

Isle of Benbecula House Hotel | Old-fashioned hotel on main road by Benbecula/South Uist causeway

Borrodale Hotel | Traditional hotel and restaurant on main road leading through South Uist

Lochboisdale Hotel | Historic building overlooking Lochboisdale harbour

Polochar Inn | Beautiful location at southern end of South Uist, original inn dates from 1750. Lively bar, good restaurant, and great views

UIST SELF-CATERING ACCOMMODATION

Uist Forest Retreat | Unique accommodation in cabins hidden in the forest looking out towards Vallay tidal island

Seas The Day Lodge | Modern, stylish, self-contained lodge

An Taigh Dubh | Restored blackhouse with thatched roof and modern interior

Smiddy Cottage | Beautiful stone and thatched-roof cottage holiday home at the southern end of South Uist

UIST CAMPSITES

Clachan Sands Informal Campsite | Informal camping area on grass overlooking Clachan Sands ( Traigh Hornais and Traigh Lingeigh). £10 per night, no facilities besides a bin and water tap. Popular with campervans

Balranald Campsite | Great location next to the beach and RSPB nature reserve, with The Dunes Cabin onsite

Moorcroft Holidays | Small campsite overlooking a tidal bay, also a hostel and glamping pods

Otters Edge Campsite | Convenient and central location on Uist

Kilbride Campsite |  Attractive location at southern end of South Uist, overlooking the Sound of Barra. Good cafe onsite, plus a hostel

BROWSE OUR SCOTLAND PRINT COLLECTION

HOW TO GET TO UIST

You can get to Uist by sea (CalMac ferry) or by air (Loganair prop plane), with the ferry being by far the most common method of travel. Advance ferry reservations are recommended if you are travelling with a vehicle, especially during the peak summer season. Changes can be made free of charge online or by calling CalMac customer services.

FERRY FROM UIG TO LOCHMADDY (NORTH UIST)

The car ferry from Uig (pronounced oo -ig) on the Isle of Skye to Lochmaddy on North Uist takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, and makes the journey once or twice a day. There is a bridge connecting Skye to mainland Scotland.

Check the ferry schedule and make a reservation on the CalMac website.

FERRY FROM MALLAIG TO LOCHBOISDALE (SOUTH UIST)

The car ferry from Mallaig on mainland Scotland to Lochboisdale in South Uist takes 3 hours 30 minutes, departing once or twice a day.

FERRY FROM ARDMHOR (BARRA) TO ERISKAY

A car ferry connects Barra and Eriskay 5 times a day. It takes about 40 minutes to cross the Sound of Barra.

The ferry at Eriskay, having just crossed the Sound of Barra from Ardmhor

FERRY FROM LEVERBURGH (HARRIS) TO BERNERAY

The car ferry between Harris and Berneray operates between three and five times a day. It takes about 1 hour to cross the Sound of Harris.

FLIGHTS TO BENBECULA

Loganair operates direct flights a few times a week from Glasgow to Benbecula (approx 1 hour journey time), and from Inverness with a touchdown in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis (approx 3 hours 30 minutes total journey time). There is a max luggage allowance of 15 kg. You can compare flight options and prices via Skyscanner .

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HOW TO GET AROUND UIST

Get around uist.

The most convenient way to get around Uist is by car , which you can hire on the island or bring on the ferry. Local hire companies include Car Hire Hebrides , Laing Motors , and Ask Car Hire .

There is a public bus service operating throughout the islands from Monday – Saturday (no Sunday service). You can check the bus timetables here .

Cycling is also a great way to get around. You can hire bikes (including electric bikes) from Heb E-Bike Hire on Grimsay, Bike Uist on North Uist, and Lasgair Bike Hire on South Uist. Or, bring your own on the ferry.

THANKS FOR READING!

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Kim and Del Hogg

If you’ve found this guide helpful, please consider leaving us a small tip.

Your support is greatly appreciated and helps cover the costs of running this blog.

We hope you enjoyed our guide to the best things to do on Uist. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below, and if you’ve been before, we’d love to hear about your own experience on the islands.

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Outer Hebrides , Travel Guides

Outer hebrides travel guide: 35 things to do in uist.

Want to visit the Outer Hebrides and have the islands to yourself? The islands of Uist, between Berneray and Eriskay, is exactly what you’re looking for: Endless beaches, rough mountain landscapes, machair and moors bursting with life, and locals who are proud to share their little slice of paradise with you. Use this travel guide full of memorable things to do in Uist to plan your trip to this hidden gem in the Outer Hebrides.

This post was commissioned by Visit Outer Hebrides.

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Nestled between Lewis & Harris, possibly the better known islands in the Outer Hebrides, and Barra, the island of airport fame, Uist is in many ways the secret treasure of the Western Isles.

Yet, the islands that make up Uist have a lot to offer. A proud connection to the islands’ Gaelic heritage, mesmerising landscapes, welcoming communities, mountains, moors and coastlines bustling with wildlife and more.

And the best thing is that here, you really get it all to yourself. Uist is a great place to “get away from it all” and experience the Outer Hebrides to their fullest.

I first visited Uist when I walked the Hebridean Way . I spent six days walking across the islands from Eriskay to Berneray. This time, I visited with a friend and we hired a rental car – more on getting around Uist below.

Both times Uist has been an absolute darling. Many of my favourite hiking routes are on these islands and on my most recent trip I was blown away by the wonderful people and their stories. These islands are quickly becoming some of my favourite Scottish isles !

This Uist travel guide will help you plan a trip to the islands. It contains:

• A quick Uist FAQ
• Tips for getting to Uist and getting around the islands
• Things to do in Uist incl. each of the islands (Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay)
• Amazing places to eat in Uist incl. vegan-friendly eateries
• Suggestions for places to stay in Uist

For a day-by-day rundown of my most recent trip, check out my Uist stories .

Uist is a stop on my Outer Hebrides itinerary – if you like what you see here, consider following on your next trip to Scotland!

Table of Contents

Outer Hebrides Wellbeing Trail

My most recent trip to Uist happened in partnership with Visit Outer Hebrides to promote their newly launched Wellbeing Trail . The Outer Hebrides are a fantastic place to find space to unwind, spend time in nature, enjoy life in the company of your loved ones and wonder and learn about Scottish history and Gaelic culture.

The Wellbeing Trail features 41 locations all over the Outer Hebrides that can help you boost your mental and physical well-being. They include lesser-known places and many recommendations by locals, so you can discover hidden gems wherever you go.

We visited many of the locations on the trail and many of the things to do in Uist included below are also part of it.

You can download the Wellbeing Trail leaflet here .

Uist Travel Guide

Where is uist.

Uist is a group of islands in the Outer Hebrides. They are located south of Lewis and Harris – the Sound of Harris separates Harris and Berneray – and north of Barra and Vatersay – across the Sound of Barra. The water between the islands and the mainland is called the Little Minch towards Skye and the Sea of the Hebrides further south.

Which islands make up Uist?

The main islands making up Uist are Berneray, North Uist, Grimsay, Benbecula, South Uist and Eriskay. There are also the Monach Isles off the coast of North Uist and many other uninhabited islands in the surrounding waters.

You might also like: Which Scottish Isles to visit & why

How to get to Uist

Ferry connections to uist.

There are two ferries from the Scottish mainland to the islands of Uist. Both are operated by Calmac.

There is a ferry from Mallaig to Lochboisdale on South Uist. The crossing takes approximately 3.5 hours and leaves 1-2 times per day.

The second ferry departs from Uig on Skye to Lochmaddy on North Uist. This crossing is shorter – one hour and 45 minutes – and it also runs 1-2 times per day.

Flying to Uist

The Scottish airline Loganair operates flights from Glasgow and Inverness to Benbecula airport, which serves as the airport for all the islands of Uist. There are also flights from Benbecula to Stornoway.

Flying to the Outer Hebrides is a great option if you are short on time and want to maximise your time on the Outer Hebrides. The views are also not too shabby!

Getting around Uist

Car hire or public transport .

Driving is by far the most flexible option to get around Uist. We hired a car from Carhire Hebrides at Benbecula Airport. They have multiple locations throughout the islands, so it’s also possible to pick up and return your vehicle at different airports or ferry terminals.

It is also possible to explore Uist by public transport, but without a car it’s trickier to get around. You may have to walk, cycle or take local taxis to reach certain points of interest, and might not be able to visit as many places as with a car.

Note that many historic sites, places of natural beauty and interesting nature reserves are at the end of narrow single-track roads, and are not serviced by local buses.Find further information about getting around the Outer Hebrides here .

You might also like: My top tips for hiring a car in Scotland

Cycling or walking the Hebridean Way

Potentially easier than travelling by public transport, is to hire a bike or follow the Hebridean Way on foot.

About half the route crisscrosses the islands of Uist and you can visit most of the places mentioned below by doing a few detours.

Things to do in Uist

Now, let’s go through the islands of Uist one by one and explore some of the most beautiful places to visit and things to do on North Uist, South Uist, Benbecula, Eriskay, Berneray and Grimsay.

Things to do on North Uist

Langass community woodland.

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Outer Hebrides is that there are very few trees. Every now and then though, local communities have come together to plant community woodlands.

Langass Community Woodland is a green oasis on the moors of North Uist – it’s one of my favourite places to visit in Uist to go for a walk. The trees increase biodiversity on the island and offer a recreational space for locals and visitors. Most importantly, being around trees has proven health benefits!

There are several trails through the small forest. Consider also visiting the nearby chambered cairn Barpa Langais and the standing stones at Pobull Fhinn.

Balranald RSPB Nature Reserve

The Outer Hebrides are home to several rare bird species that are rarely found on the mainland anymore. The corncrake is one of these nearly extinct birds. The RSPB nature reserve at Balranald is one of the best places to see – or rather hear – corncrake in their natural habitat.

There is a visitor centre and a 3.5 miles loop trail along the beach and through the dunes of the machair. Happy birding!

Other things to do on North Uist

• Visit the ruins of Teampull na Trionaid (Trinity Temple) in Carinish
• Go for a walk at Traigh Iar beach
• Walk to the tidal island Vallay during low tide
• See the ruins of the Iron Age fort Dun an Sticir
• Visit the exhibitions at Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum & Arts Centre in Lochmaddy

You might also like: How to engage with Scottish Gaelic culture as a tourist

Things to do on South Uist

Learn about crofting at long island retreats.

Crofting is a sustainable way of farming on a small scale. It is a prevalent way of working the land across the Scottish islands. It differs from commercial farming in many ways – among others, animal stocks are smaller, animals from several crofts graze together and many tasks are done collaboratively.

The best way to learn about crofting is to actually visit a croft and spend time with the people who run it. Long Island Retreats on South Uist offer authentic tours and experiences on their own croft on Loch Sgioport. There are a few different options, but I recommend booking a croft tour to see all aspects of crofting and also meet their herd of Shetland ponies.

Crofter DJ runs the tours, while his partner Lindsay can point you in the way of lovely swim spots on the coast or hidden lochs on their land. I highly recommend following her advice!

Loch Driudibeag Trails

The walk across Loch Druidibeg was my favourite part on the Hebridean Way. The moorland expands from the main road of South Uist to the east towards Loch Sgioport, and offers various different habitats and landscapes. It’s an RSPB nature reserve and a popular place to spot hen harriers and white-tailed eagles.

From the trails around the moorland, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the tall mountains of South Uist.

You might also like: The best day hikes in Scotland

Rubha Aird a’ Mhuile Walk

Rubha Aird a’ Mhuile (Ardvule) is the westernmost point of South Uist. It sits at the edge of a grassy headland which breaks up the endless sandy beach on the west coast of the island.

The walk starts and finishes at St Mary’s RC Church in Bornais where there is plenty of parking, and follows a 3.5 mile loop trail . Along the way, you’ll come past the archaeological remains of a Viking settlement.

The headland is also on the Hebridean Whale Trail , so keep an eye out for the pod of resident bottlenose dolphins from Barra.

North Loch Eynort & Arinaban Woodland

Loch Eynort is a big sea loch on the east coast of South Uist and the single-track road along the north shore is easily one of the most scenic drives on the island.

Here are some tips for driving on single-track roads safely and considerately.

Park up at the end of the road and go for a walk around Arinaban Woodland . There are some trees at the start, but soon the trail emerges into a wide open landscape – beautiful hillsides filled with purple heather that blooms in August and September, imposing mountains in the distance, and the serene waters of Loch Eynort below.

You can do a small loop and walk for an hour, or spend more time exploring the trails around the woodland. This walk was one of my favourite things to do in Uist.

Other things to do on South Uist

• Drive down the scenic Loch Sgioport road
• Explore the history of Cladh Hallan with the Uist Unearthed app
• Visit Kildonan Museum
• Follow the Machair Way path from Polochar along the sandy west coast

Things to do on Benbecula

Culla bay beach.

Culla Bay is a beautiful sandy beach in Baile nan Cailleach (Nunton), a small hamlet on the west coast of Benbecula. The beach is just a 5-minute drive from the airport which makes it the perfect first or last stop on your trip to Uist.

The sand dunes and machair behind the beach are full of wildlife – nesting waders like oystercatchers and lapwing can be found in abundance. You might even hear corncrake calling while you take in the views.

Culla Bay beach is also a popular wild swimming spot, if you’re looking for a dip in the sea.

Gin tasting at North Uist Distillery

Confusingly, North Uist Distillery is located on Benbecula! The budding whisky company started on North Uist but when they found a beautiful empty farmstead on Benbecula they relocated to the island.

North Uist Distillery already produces delicious gin, infused with locally foraged heather flowers, and is currently gearing up to start distilling whisky in 2023.

Gin tastings are available at their site on Benbecula.

Climb Ruabhal

Ruabhal (Rueval) is the highest hill on Benbecula. It stands just 124m above sea level, but since Benbecula is otherwise super flat, the hill looks absolutely massive from the bottom.

I actually climbed Ruabhal when I hiked the Hebridean Way and it took just about 45 minutes to reach the top. From the summit, you get a 360 degree view of the island, North Uist and Harris in the north, South Uist to the south and the isle of Skye across the Little Minch.

Other things to do on Benbecula

• Head to the beach Shell Bay at Liniclate
• Visit the ruins of Borve Castle, seat of the Clanranald until the 1715 Jacobite Rising
• Book a riding lesson on the beach with Uist Community Riding School

Things to do on Eriskay

Coilleag a phrionnsa – the prince’s beach.

When Bonnie Prince Charlie arrived in Scotland in 1745, he landed on Eriskay hoping to gain the support for his cause from the predominantly Catholic population. He failed and ended up moving his efforts to the mainland, but Eriskay will forever get to claim that this is where the Young Pretender first set foot on Scottish soil.

The beach is a breathtaking white sandy bay next to the ferry pier. It’s a beautiful spot for a day on the beach and a dip in the sea. This is one of my favourite beaches in Uist.

Find the Eriskay ponies

The Eriskay Pony is a rare breed that is native to the Hebridean islands. The breed was nearly lost until the Eriskay Pony Society was formed in 1972 and devoted itself to the resurrection of these beautiful ponies.

They are predominantly white-grey in colour and even though they are all owned by someone, they roam the island freely. They can often be spotted high up in the hills of the island, or around the village.

If you do spot them, approach them with caution and do not feed them – it’s not healthy for the ponies and can be dangerous for you.

Book an Eriskay Walking Tour

Eriskay may be small, but there is a lot about this island that makes it special. One of the best ways to learn about the island is to book a walking tour with Uist Sea Tours. They’re a local company doing boat trips, but started to offer walking tours to share their passion for the island.

The two hour walking tour takes in locations such as the Prince’s beach, the unique Eriskay football field and more. The tour finishes with a dram at the local pub Am Politician and tales of the SS Politician, a cargo ship that sank off the island in 1943. On board: thousands of cases of whisky which were quickly “saved” by the locals.

The story of the SS Politician inspired Compton Mackenzie to write his novel Whisky Galore .

Boat trip to Mingulay with Uist Sea Tours

Mingulay is a small island south of Vatersay and Barra. It has been uninhabited since 1912, but you can still wander around the remains of the village. The island is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and is home to a thriving puffin colony. On the west coast, it features some of Britain’s tallest sea cliffs and an absolutely epic sea arch which you can sail or – if you’re lucky – paddle board through.

Uist Sea Tours runs boat trips from Eriskay to Mingulay throughout the summer. The journey down takes just one hour. You get three hours on the island to explore the village and visit the puffins. You’ll take in the sea cliffs on the way down or back, depending on the weather. This boat trip was easily among my favourite things to do in Uist.

Alternatively, you can book a private charter with Uist Sea Tours to visit Mingulay or other islands in the area, including the Monach Isles, St Kilda, Canna or Coll.

Back on Uist, you can hire paddleboards or book guided excursions. We even brought the paddle boards to Mingulay on our private charter trip.

If you’ve ever thought about visiting St Kilda , but were put off by the 2.5-hour journey there, Mingulay is a perfect alternative. I actually thought the sea cliffs and sea arch were more stunning than the cliffs and stacks of St Kilda – but of course it’s not a double heritage site. Each destination has its benefits!

Things to do on Berneray

Berneray is the northernmost island of Uist. It is connected to North Uist by a causeway that was only opened in 2000, and to Harris to the north by ferry. It’s tiny, but packs a punch.

West Beach & East Beach

Berneray’s west coast is one giant beach. West Beach has been voted among Europe’s most beautiful beaches and was accidentally used to promote a beach on Koh Chang by the Thai tourism board.

There is a great loop trail around the island that takes in West Beach and also East Beach, the beach facing towards Harris.

Seal spotting

There is a local seal colony in the village bay and a great viewing point to sit and watch them as they haul out onto the rocks at low tide. This spot is also on the Outer Hebrides Wellbeing Trail!

Other things to do on Berneray

• Take a walk to Queen’s Beach in the south of the island
• Visit Cladh Maolrithe standing stone
• Pick up local souvenirs at Coralbox Gift Shop

Things to do on Grimsay

Most people drive across Grimsay on the way from North Uist to Benbecula, but few people really visit Grimsay. Even though it’s such an easy detour!

Drive the loop road to Kallin harbour

The is a loop road around Grimsay, starting and finishing on the main road between the North Uist and Benbecula causeways. Follow the signs for Kallin harbour – if you miss the first, just take the second and you’ll end up in the same place.

The scenery of Grimsay is stunning and you’re never far from the sea. Stop by Hebridean Candles to pick up local souvenirs. If the weather is nice, take a look at the colourful fishing boats at Kallin Harbour. Finally, learn about Hebridean wool production and shop some locally sourced and milled sheep’s wool at Uist Wool .

Other things to do on Grimsay

• Book a boat tour to see local wildlife with Lady Anne Boat Trips
• Visit the Grimsay Boat Museum at Ceann na h-Àirigh community centre
• Hire e-bikes to explore the island

Vegan-friendly places to eat in Uist

The Outer Hebrides do not have the reputation of a vegan-friendly paradise. The local cuisine is obviously strongly linked with crofting, fishing and historically, the hunting for seabirds. But the islands are really catching up! A lot has happened since my first visit in 2018 and there is a lot more plant-based choice available now.

Of course, all the below mentioned restaurants are equally excellent if you are not vegan!

• Langass Lodge on North Uist: Perfect for a fancy treat with stunning views of the hills on North Uist
• Borrodale Hotel on South Uist: A cosy and rustic bar & restaurant with an excellent menu
• The Wee Cottage Kitchen on North Uist: A food truck with freshly prepared seafood rolls and a few vegan options
• Am Politician on Eriskay: The one and only pub on Eriskay with a great pub menu
• Croft & Cuan on South Uist: A brilliant lunch cafe in Lochboisdale
• Berneray Bistro on Berneray: A cafe with lunch options at the community shop

You might also like: My guide to travelling Scotland as a vegan

Where to stay in Uist

Even though Uist is made up of so many islands, it’s easy to explore all of them from one home base – no need to move on every (few) nights. This also makes it easier to find suitable self-catering accommodation as many require a minimum stay for 3-4 nights at least.

We spent four nights at Air a’Chroit Luxury Pods on North Uist and absolutely loved the experience. The pod was more spacious than other pods I’ve stayed in before and really well laid out. An additional skylight window brings additional light into the living space and the bed is super comfy. The kitchen is well equipped and all the furnishings are really well chosen.

In general, there is more self-catering accommodation available on Uist than B&Bs or hotels. Look for pods or cottages that are located on locally owned croft land and try to stay away from second homes that are rented out as holiday homes. This is to make sure that the money you spend on accommodation contributes to the local economy and does not leave the islands. (Many second home/holiday cottages are owned by people who live off-island.)

If you are looking for a more traditional stay in a hotel, check out the hotels listed above in the food section. There are also hotels in Lochmaddy and Lochboisdale.

If you’re on a budget, check out my guide to accommodation on the Hebridean Way which includes several hostels and campsites.

As you can see, Uist is a true hidden gem in the Outer Hebrides. The islands of Uist are among my favourite Scottish islands to visit to spend time in nature & watch wildlife, get away from busy life and connect with amazing locals who love sharing their islands with visitors.

I hope this guide gives you everything you need to plan a trip to Uist, follow the new Wellbeing Trail and enjoy a relaxing island hopping trip on the west coast.

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2 thoughts on “ Outer Hebrides Travel Guide: 35 Things to do in Uist ”

Thank you Kathi for a great feature on your travels through Uist. So often folk seem to rush through Uist travelling between Barra and Harris. Our neighbouring Islands are worthy destinations but as you have clearly shown Uist itself has so much to offer, more of course than even your blog has space for! Thank you for sharing your journey, but mostly just for coming and having such a great time. Haste ye back ☺️

Thanks, Robin! I agree – people in general rush too much instead of exploring each area more in depth – myself included. I wish I could have stayed even longer and seen even more! Can’t wait to return 🙂 The blue bell candle I bought brightens up my office all the time!

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