Tiree is flat and fertile - hence its Gaelic name of Tir an Eòrna, the land of the barley. This may sound unpromising to walkers - and the island is perhaps best known for its windsurfing - but the truth is that Tiree is a gem, with plenty of interest for those who prefer to explore on foot.
The obvious chief attractions are the idyllic sandy beaches. Much of the land behind them is machair; a dry, fertile grassland formed by sand blowing over peat - a unique habitat for wild flowers, spectacular here in early summer - and birdlife. There's plenty of other interest on Tiree's wonderful coastal walks - from the ancient Ringing Stone and the impressive Dun Beag broch at Bhalla, to the complex of signal station buildings at Hynish, the base for Skerryvore Lighthouse. The island also has 3 small hills - their stature greatly enhanced by the flatness from which they rise.
Please note that much of Tiree is a crofting landscape with many grazing sheep and cattle (as well as being important for ground breeding birds). Dogs should be kept under close control at all times and preferably on a short lead during lambing season.
Walk | Grade | Length | Time |
---|---|---|---|
Tràigh Chornaig - The Green |
![]() | 3.35km | 1 hour |
The Maze beach (Tràigh Thòrasdail) |
![]() | 3.5km | 1 hour |
Heanish and Tràigh an Duin |
![]() | 3.85km | 1 - 2 hours |
Caolas Explorer |
![]() | 8.25km | 2 - 3 hours |
Ceann a' Mhara and Balephuil Bay |
![]() ![]() | 5km | 2 - 2.5 hours |
Hough Bay and Beinn |
![]() ![]() | 6km | 2 - 2.5 hours |
The Ringing Stone, Dun Mòr broch and Gott Bay |
![]() ![]() | 10km | 3 - 3.5 hours |
Carnan Mòr and Hynish |
![]() ![]() ![]() | 8.25km | 3 hours |