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.
Sandy beach, grassy path and track.
Infrequent bus from Stornoway - not possible to reach and return in a day.
Uig Sands car park.
There is a signed car park 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 and wooden steps lead down onto the beach.
Unless the water level is high (in which case the walk may not be possible), continue north across the magnificent and vast stretch of sand. The route to the other side may appear to be barred by a deep river, but there is a footbridge - aim for and cross this.
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.
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.
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.
The return walk is back the same way - no hardship in such stunning surroundings.
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