The Outer Hebrides - also known as the Western Isles - are traversed on this unique 253km walking route. The route begins on the island of Vatersay, and visits Barra, Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, Grimsay, North Uist, Berneray and Harris and Lewis, finishing in the capital, Stornoway.
The route features varied walking and terrain. There are truly magnificent beaches with perfect white sand, fertile grassland meadows known as machair, vast areas of peat moorland speckled with sparkling lochans, and hills whose arresting outlines give them far greater stature than their height suggests.
The islands also offer a unique culture, being the stronghold of the Gaelic language, and superb wildlife. Yet another attraction are the archaelogical remains found throughout the islands - a treasure trove of prehistory. All these things are seen along the way.
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STAGE DESCRIPTIONS
THE CHALLENGE
Although the trail reaches a maximum altitude of only 270m, it should not be underestimated. The interior of the Outer Hebrides is largely composed of peat, and there is a great deal of boggy terrain on almost all stages. Although mostly well-waymarked, there are several sections which are pathless, so navigation skills are needed. There are also easier sections, with a fair amount of roadwalking and sandy beaches.
The islands are exceptionally windy, and with little tree cover or shelter, much of the route is exposed to any bad weather. Be sure you have adequate clothing and equipment.
ROUTE MAP
PAPER GUIDEBOOK
ROUTE PLANNING
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0km - Vatersay Hall
Local bus stop.
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10.5km - Tangusdale / Halaman Bay
Hotel, campsite (1km further), bus stop.
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24km - Sound of Barra Ferry
Ferries.
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26km - Eriskay
Pub, shop.
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31km - Kilbride
Campsite.
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33km - Pollochar
Inn.
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40km - Daliburgh road end
1.5km detour to hotel, shop, bus stop.
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59km - Howmore
Hostel.
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80km - Carnan
Shop.
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82km - Creagorry
Shop.
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85km - Liniclate
Hotel and campsite.
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110km - Carinish
Campsite with pods, 1.5km detour to hotel.
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118km - Langass
Hotel.
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127.5km - Lochmaddy road
1.5km detour to shop, hotel, B&B, cafe.
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144km - Sound of Harris ferry
Ferry pier. Shop & bunkhouse nearby, B&B 1.5km, hostel 2.5km.
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145.5km - Leverburgh
Hostel, B&Bs, takeaway van, and shop, buses.
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156km - Scarista
Hotel, bus stop.
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166km - Seilebost
1km detour to B&B, buses.
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172.5km - Bays Community Centre
Cafe, buses.
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190km - Tarbet
Hotels, B&B, restaurant, buses, ferry.
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204.5km - Scaladal
Hostel, B&B nearby
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225km - Balallan
Cafe, B&B nearby, buses.
- 254.5km - Stornoway
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