Uig Sands

Summary

The magnificent sands at Tràigh Uig are renowned as one of the finest of all Scotland's beaches. This out-and-back walk crosses the beach and an iconic footbridge before visiting the historic Baile na Cille burial ground. It can only be completed at low tide, and when the river levels are low.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Sandy beach - may involve wet feet. Grassy path and track.

Getting there

Start

Uig Sands car park.

Public Transport

Infrequent bus from Stornoway - not possible to reach and return in a day.

Start Grid Ref

NB047327

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 4km / 2.5 miles
Time: 1 hour
Ascent: 82m (Profile)

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Explorer 458 - West Lewis

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Walk Description

User reports (1)

Stage 1

There is a signed car park reached down a rutted track at Uig Sands, with public toilets and campsite facilities. The famous Lewis Chessmen - a collection of 93 pieces dating from the 12th century - were found in the dunes near here in 1831; most of them are now in the British Museum in London, though a smaller number belong to the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh (and some are sometimes loaned to the museum at Lews Castle near Stornoway). Begin the walk by continuing along the track from the car park, passing the campervan parking area, until it curves left. Leave it here and pass the remains of old wooden steps to head down onto the beach.

Stage 2

The next section requires low tide. Continue north across the magnificent and vast stretch of sand. The route to the other side appears to be barred by a deep river, but there is a footbridge - aim for this. If the river is high reaching the near end of the bridge may not be possible, or you may get wet feet. Once at the bridge, head across.

Stage 3

On the far side go up the path to the flat grassy ground above the cliffs, then aim north towards Timsgearraidh. There are better views from the cliff edge, but the path diverges from it to reach a stile over a fence beside a massive boulder. Cross the stile and descend the steep slope beyond - a rope aids the descent. Continue along the right hand edge of the field until you meet a track.

Stage 4

Turn right to head up to a tarmac minor road, then turn left along this. Take the next left onto another track, which descends gently towards a fine whitewashed house. There are stunning views looking back across Uig Sands to the hills beyond.

Stage 5

Go through the gate into the grassy field to the right of the buildings, keeping a fence on your left. At the far corner of the gardens turn left to head down to the cemetery visible below, just above the beach. The cemetery is on the site of an ancient chapel. The views are magnificent, but this was also a significant place in the history of Lewis. In the 1820s the Reverend Alexander Macleod preached here to thousands of people as part of the Great Revival that swept Lewis.

Stage 6

The return walk is back the same way - no hardship in such stunning surroundings - but you need to have left enough time to beat the tide!

Route Profile

Where to stay

Outer Hebrides Hotels

Outer Hebrides B&B

Isle of Lewis cottages

Outer Hebrides hostels

Glamping and Camping

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