Hebridean Vacations The Isle of Harris

By: John Angus Macleod

Scotland attracts a wide range of visitors each year, some are looking for excitement while others visit in search of peace and relaxation. There is simply so much to do in Scotland that virtually anybody can create the perfect vacation package. Sporting vacations such as skiing, golf and fishing have their main areas but outside of the main tourist attractions Scotland has much to offer. The Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides of Hebrides is one of the lesser known vacation destinations which offers extreme diversity.

Found off the west coast of Scotland, in the Atlantic ocean, the Hebrides are made up of a great many islands of different sizes (the vast majority unpopulated). There are two groups the Inner Hebrides which are separated from the Outer Hebrides by a stretch of water known as the Minch. The Isle of Skye in the Inner Hebrides is the most well known and most popular vacation destination.

The Outer Hebrides are very different from the Inner Isles and there is a great deal of diversity amongst the islands of the Western Isles. The Isle of Lewis, to the north, is the largest and most populated island to which the Isle of Harris is attached, to the south. Lewis consists of mainly boggy moorland (except around the coast which is spectacular) whereas Harris is mountainous to the North and rocky to the South.

North Harris is separated from South Harris by a very small isthmus where you will find the main village of Tarbert. The main ferry to and from the Isle of Skye arrives/departs to/from Tarbert. The generally quiet village comes alive at ferry times when the roads become rather congested. During the summer months you should always book your ferry well in advance as they are often full. Also allow plenty of time to arrive there early as the ferry will not wait for late arrivals.

Harris golf course is set in the wonderfully beautiful coast of South Harris with the most incredible views and really keen golfers will be pleased to hear that there is another course in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Anglers will be thrilled with the number of places providing superb fly fishing opportunities for trout or salmon on the Isle of Harris.

Cycling vacations are extremely popular on Harris and large numbers of individuals and groups of friends enjoy the often unique experience. Great care should always be taken by both the cyclists and others on the road. It is sometimes too easy to become distracted by the sights and cycling alongside each other is not advised. If cycling on Harris is not for you then maybe you would enjoy walking. Many hill walkers and climbers visit the island in the summer but again you should take great care and be suitably equipped at all times.

Until you visit the Isle of Harris it is difficult for you to fully understand the outstanding beauty of the island. Yes you may have seen some photographs of the many spectacular beaches, you may have seen them on the television. However, until you have stood, on a hot summers day with your bare feet in the soft warm shell sand, looking out to sea, you have no idea what a genuinely moving experience it can be.

If you are visiting the Isle of Harris to enjoy a relaxing break then you should consider staying in one of the many guest houses on Harris. Guest houses are always top quality and the hospitality superb but if you can afford to stay in a hotel the choice is slightly limited. If you enjoy total freedom then there is plenty of self catering accommodation available on Harris and it is always superb. If you have your own transport then you can stay almost anywhere on Harris but if not then, if you want to visit Lewis you may wish to consider staying in Tarbert. It is possible to catch a bus to Stornoway from South Harris but it is a long journey.

Article Source: http://www.share.onlypunjab.com

If you are considering a vacation to Harris please take a look at Harris Self Catering and Harris Bed & Breakfast

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated