Ardviourlie Woodland Observatory, Ardviourlie

Summary

With the rugged and rocky landscape of North Harris, Ardviourlie Woodland is a welcome change. Planting began in 2000 as part of the Millennium Forest Programme, at 100ha it is now the largest area of woodland in North Harris. This short, circular route has incredible views over the glen with Eagles regularly seen soaring above.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Good track / footpath.

Getting there

Start

Carpark on A859.

Public Transport

Bus service between Stornoway and Tarbert.

Start Grid Ref

NB186104

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 3.5km / 2.25 miles
Time: 1 - 2 hours
Ascent: 183m (Profile)

Mapping and GPS

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Explorer 456 - North Harris

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Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

Parking is available at Ardviourlie woodland carpark, indicated by a brown sign and ‘eagle trail’ marker. Begin the walk by crossing through the metal kissing gate, signage and a map can be found to the left.

Stage 2

Continue up the track, passing through some of the younger areas of woodland. A marker sign indicates two routes, one up to the viewpoint to the North and the other splits off left to the woodland observatory. Either route will lead to the Observatory building, providing shelter on poor weather days and views over Glen Vigidale.

Stage 3

Now at the centre of a 700km2 wild land area, the impressive rocky crags and dense spots of woodland provide an abundance of good quality habitat for wildlife to thrive. Creating areas of native deciduous woodland benefits the landscape in many ways, from soil quality to increasing biodiversity and capturing carbon for tackling climate change. Some of the many species that are planted here are Downey Birch, Alder, Rowan and Holly. Golden and White Tailed Sea Eagles are regularly seen soaring above or flying low hunting through the lower areas of the glen.

Stage 4

Return from the observatory by following the track to the carpark, all splits in the track are well signposted. On the return route views over Loch Seaforth and Seaforth Island where evidence of cultivation can be seen on the steep sloped of Seaforth Island in the form of ‘lazy beds’.

Route: Clara Risi, Western Isles Community Ranger, John Muir Trust

Route Profile

Where to stay

Outer Hebrides Hotels

Outer Hebrides B&B

Isle of Harris cottages

Outer Hebrides hostels

Glamping and Camping

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