Top reasons to visit Harris
- Stunning Beaches: Harris boasts pristine beaches like Luskentyre, offering soft sands and crystal-clear waters for relaxation and exploration.
- Breathtaking Landscapes: The dramatic Harris Hills provide a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
- Local Distilleries: Visit the Harris Distillery to savour the region's finest spirits and learn about traditional whisky production.
- Cultural Richness: Explore historic castles and charming churches that reflect the unique heritage of the Outer Hebrides.
- Delightful Accommodation: Enjoy a range of cosy lodgings, from charming bed and breakfasts to unique log cabins.
Find great hotels in and around Harris
Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Harris, Scotland, from cosy bed and breakfasts to inviting hotels. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodgings or a beachside retreat, Harris has something to suit every traveller's needs. Explore charming log cabins or consider unique stays like Syy hotels and Laxdale Cottage, ensuring a memorable experience in this stunning part of the United Kingdom.
- Gealabhat Calllanish B&B: A charming budget-friendly Bed and Breakfast located 26km from Harris, Gealabhat Calllanish B&B offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for travellers seeking a homely stay. The property is renowned for its delightful dining options, featuring a complimentary cooked breakfast served daily, ensuring guests start their day off right. The friendly hosts are eager to provide local insights, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the beauty of the Isle of Harris.
- Uig Lodge: Situated 24km from Harris, Uig Lodge is a delightful budget-friendly retreat, boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. Perfect for beach lovers and pet owners, this Bed and Breakfast offers direct access to the sandy shores, allowing guests to bask in the stunning coastal views. The lodge is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs and accommodating service animals with waived fees. With its relaxed atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Uig Lodge is an ideal getaway for those wishing to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- The Rodel Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Harris, The Rodel Hotel offers a budget-friendly lodging experience with essential amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can take advantage of the convenient self-parking option, ensuring easy access to the hotel. Its location allows visitors to explore the picturesque landscapes and rich culture of Harris, making it a sensible choice for those eager to immerse themselves in this stunning part of Scotland.
Where to stay in Harris
Harris, Scotland, offers an enchanting blend of stunning beaches and breathtaking landscapes perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways. Explore the beautiful Isle of Harris, where the pristine sands of Luskentyre Beach await, or venture to the nearby Isle of Lewis for rich history and culture. Don’t miss the serene Sound of Harris, which boasts picturesque views of the Western Isles, making it an ideal destination for a memorable vacation experience.
- Tarbert: Nestled on the west coast of Harris, Tarbert is a picturesque village that serves as the gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Outer Hebrides. The village is well-known for its outdoor adventures, making it a popular spot for both kayaking and golfing enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beaches and rolling dunes, while the historic landmarks provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the area. With peak visitor numbers from April to July, Tarbert offers a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the summer months when the community comes alive with outdoor activities and events.
- Leverburgh: Located on the southern tip of Harris, Leverburgh is a charming village renowned for its breathtaking scenery and inviting beaches. The tranquil shores and stunning lookouts make it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene outdoor experience. Visitors flock here primarily from April to July, drawn by the natural beauty and outdoor activities. The village is perfect for leisurely walks along the coastline, allowing one to take in the stunning views while enjoying the fresh sea air. Leverburgh combines relaxation with adventure, making it a must-visit on your journey through Harris.
- Rodel: Rodel, situated on the southwestern coast of Harris, is a quaint village known for its historical monuments and beautiful beaches. While Rodel sees a seasonal influx of visitors peaking in the summer months, its charm remains year-round. The village is perfect for those who appreciate rich history, as it boasts ancient sites alongside its picturesque coastal scenery. Visitors can explore the nearby beaches, which offer a peaceful retreat, making Rodel an excellent choice for a tranquil getaway amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.
Things to do in Harris
Shopping
In Harris, you can explore local artisan shops for unique gifts, such as Harris Tweed products. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby shopping centres like the Stornoway Shopping Centre for a wider selection of goods and local produce.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil surroundings at the Harris Wellness Retreat, where you can indulge in holistic treatments and yoga sessions amidst stunning landscapes. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby beaches offer excellent opportunities for walking and meditative moments by the sea, allowing you to connect with nature.
Adventure
In Harris, explore the breathtaking landscapes of Luskentyre Beach, renowned for its white sands and azure waters, ideal for beachcombing and photography. Venture to the Isle of Harris Distillers for a gin-making experience, where you can learn about local botanicals and enjoy tastings of their unique spirits.
Nightlife
In Harris, the Clansman Hotel provides a relaxed atmosphere with local ales and live music, while the Scalpay Bar offers stunning views and a cosy setting for socialising. The Isle of Harris Distillers often hosts events, showcasing the island's unique spirits and community vibe.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harris
To save money during your visit to Harris, consider travelling in January when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel a month in advance can help secure better deals, and keep an eye on last-minute offers on sites like Expedia. Mondays are typically the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia’s filters for budget-friendly options, and consider combining your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore free activities and use public transport to keep costs down while enjoying the stunning scenery.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Harris are January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May, July and October, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Harris is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Harris is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Harris is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Harris hotel reservation with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Harris
Harris, Scotland, is an idyllic destination for beach, outdoor, and romantic getaways. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, historic castles, and charming churches, all while immersing themselves in the local culture. Notable attractions include the Harris Distillery and the breathtaking Harris Hills, set against the backdrop of the Outer Hebrides. This captivating locale offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal spot for travellers seeking unique experiences.
- Luskentyre Beach: Known for its stunning white sands and turquoise waters, Luskentyre Beach offers a serene escape. This picturesque location is ideal for leisurely strolls, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and islands.
- Amhuinnsuidhe Castle: Nestled in a dramatic landscape, Amhuinnsuidhe Castle exudes romance and rich history. Visitors can admire its striking architecture and explore the cultural heritage of the area, making it a captivating spot for photography and exploration.
- Ardbuidhe Cottage Gallery: This charming gallery showcases local art and crafts, reflecting the vibrant culture of Harris. It offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the creativity of local artists and perhaps purchase a memorable souvenir of your visit.
Best time to go to Harris
The best time to visit Harris is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Harris
Reaching Harris, Scotland, is convenient via its major airports. Stornoway Airport (SYY) is located 42km away and offers several nearby accommodations, including the 4-star Cabarfeidh Hotel and Hebridean Guest House, both just 3km from the airport. Benbecula Airport (BEB), situated 63km away, has options like the 3-star Orasay Inn, 11km from the airport, and Swan View Lodge, 18km away. For Castlebay Airport (BRR), located 111km from Harris, visitors can find UIST Travel Accommodation, 16km away, and Polochar Inn, 10km from the airport. Each airport provides accessible transport links to these hotels for a seamless travel experience.