free to be able to rate and comment on reports (as well as access 1:25000 mapping).
We parked near the small jetty at Eolaigearraidh (NF076713)
and set off north around the headland and on to a typical Hebridean beach. A wonderful curve of sand studded with cockleshells,
sparkling clear water in stunning shades of blue and green,
sand dunes and, in the distance, the hills of South Uist.
The scene was somewhat spoiled by the presence in the dunes of rusting wrecks of cars – clearly this is the local dumping ground for redundant vehicles.
After about 1.5km we climbed up over the dunes to the road which continued north until it finally stopped. All along the road the fence posts were covered in snails – a remarkable sight. What were they doing?
We didn’t see this weird behaviour anywhere else. A gate led into a field and we followed the coast round the headland and then ascended Beinn Sgurabhal.
Although only 79m in height it gives a great view of the island of Fuday to the east.
Dropping down the other side we walked a short distance along the road until at a point where the road turns sharply left we went through a gate and on to the open hillside of Beinn Eolaigearraidh – a heady 102m. But from there you can see the huge sweep of Traigh Eais, the beach on the opposite side of the peninsula to Barra airport, with lines of white topped waves rolling in.
Descending steeply down in an easterly direction we came to Cille Barra,
a cemetery with a small chapel in a beautiful setting. Inside the chapel are some ancient carved stones.
It was then just a short walk back down the road to the car. A short but very enjoyable walk.