How do you get to the isle of harris
Located in the stunning Outer Hebrides of Scotland, the Isle of Harris is a remote and breathtakingly beautiful island that offers a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Known for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters, it is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
Getting to the Isle of Harris can be an adventure in itself. The island can be reached by either air or sea, offering different ways for travelers to embark on their journey. The quickest way to reach the island is by taking a flight from one of the major cities in Scotland, such as Edinburgh or Glasgow, to Stornoway, the largest town on the Isle of Lewis. From there, a short drive and a magical ferry ride will transport you to the Isle of Harris.
For those who prefer a more leisurely travel experience, there is the option of taking a ferry directly to the island. The ferry service operates from Ullapool on the mainland, crossing the scenic waters of the Minch. The journey itself is a breathtaking experience, offering panoramic views of the rugged landscape and allowing you to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Once you arrive on the Isle of Harris, you can explore its wonders at your own leisure. Whether you choose to hike the hills, soak up the sun on the beaches, or immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the island, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, book your transport, and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime to the remote and enchanting Isle of Harris.
How to reach the Isle of Harris?
Reaching the Isle of Harris, located in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, is an adventure in itself! Despite being remote, the island is accessible by various means of transportation.
By Air:
The quickest way to reach the Isle of Harris is by flying into Stornoway Airport, situated on the neighboring Isle of Lewis. Regular flights operate from major Scottish airports such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Inverness. After landing in Stornoway, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the ferry terminals.
By Ferry:
The most popular way to access the Isle of Harris is by taking a ferry from Ullapool on the Scottish mainland to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. The ferry journey typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Stornoway, you can drive south on the A859 road, which leads you directly to the Isle of Harris. It’s essential to check the ferry schedule and book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
By Public Transportation:
Those looking for a budget-friendly option can rely on the Scottish Citylink bus services that operate from major Scottish cities to Ullapool. From Ullapool, you can board the ferry to Stornoway and then continue the journey to the Isle of Harris by car or public transportation.
By Private Car:
If you prefer the flexibility and convenience of driving, you can reach the Isle of Harris by car. You can take the A9 road from Inverness and head northwest to Ullapool. From there, board the ferry to Stornoway and continue your journey to the Isle of Harris via the A859 road.
By Bicycle or by Foot:
If you are adventurous and enjoy outdoor activities, you can cycle or hike to the Isle of Harris. The Hebridean Way, a long-distance walking and cycling route, connects the Isle of Harris with the Isle of Lewis. It offers a scenic and challenging way to explore the beauty of the Outer Hebrides.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, traveling to the Isle of Harris promises a unique and unforgettable experience. The remote landscapes and pristine beaches make the journey well worth it!
By Air
Getting to the Isle of Harris by air is the quickest and most convenient option for many travelers. The nearest airports to the Isle of Harris are Stornoway Airport on the neighboring Isle of Lewis and Benbecula Airport on the Isle of Benbecula.
Stornoway Airport (SYY)
Stornoway Airport is a popular gateway to the Outer Hebrides and offers regular flights from major UK cities, including Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness, and Aberdeen. Visitors can fly to Stornoway Airport from these cities and then take a connecting flight to the Isle of Harris.
Benbecula Airport (BEB)
Benbecula Airport is another option for traveling to the Isle of Harris, although it is further away than Stornoway Airport. Flights to Benbecula Airport are available from Glasgow and Inverness, and from there, travelers can take a connecting flight or ferry to the Isle of Harris.
It’s important to note that flight schedules and frequencies to both airports may vary depending on the season, so it’s advisable to check with the airlines for up-to-date information.
Once you arrive at either Stornoway Airport or Benbecula Airport, you will need to make your way to the ferry terminal or a local bus stop to continue your journey to the Isle of Harris.
By Sea
If you prefer to travel by sea, you can take a ferry to reach the Isle of Harris. The most popular ferry route is from Ullapool on the mainland to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. From Stornoway, you can then drive south to reach the Isle of Harris.
The ferry service from Ullapool to Stornoway is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) and takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The ferries are equipped with comfortable seating areas, onboard cafes, and restroom facilities, providing you with a pleasant and relaxing journey.
It is advisable to book your ferry ticket in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. You can book your ticket online on the CalMac website or through their ticketing office.
Once you arrive at Stornoway, you can either bring your own car or rent one to reach the Isle of Harris. There are car rental companies available near the ferry terminal in Stornoway.
Traveling by sea allows you to enjoy scenic views of the surrounding waters and nearby islands, making it a memorable and picturesque journey to the beautiful Isle of Harris.
By Road
Getting to the Isle of Harris by road is a scenic and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. The main starting point for most travelers is the city of Inverness, located on the east coast of Scotland. From Inverness, you will embark on a picturesque journey that will take you through breathtaking landscapes and charming towns.
From Inverness to Ullapool
The first part of the journey involves driving from Inverness to the coastal village of Ullapool. This approximately 58 miles (93 kilometers) long route passes through the mesmerizing Scottish countryside. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to admire stunning mountains, sparkling lochs (lakes), and verdant hills.
The road from Inverness to Ullapool is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities such as petrol stations and rest areas. Take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views along the route.
Ullapool to Stornoway
Once you reach Ullapool, you will need to catch a ferry to the Isle of Lewis, which is the northern part of the island chain that includes the Isle of Harris. Ferries operate between Ullapool and Stornoway, the largest town on the Isle of Lewis. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
It is important to note that ferry schedules can vary depending on the time of year, so it is best to check in advance and plan your trip accordingly. Additionally, it is recommended to make a reservation, especially during peak seasons, to ensure a spot on the ferry.
From Stornoway to the Isle of Harris
From Stornoway, you will need to drive south to reach the Isle of Harris. The A859 road offers a direct route from Stornoway to Tarbert, which is the main village on the Isle of Harris. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and covers around 49 miles (79 kilometers).
Along the way, you will be treated to stunning coastal views, pristine beaches, and rugged landscapes. Make sure to take breaks and explore the unique attractions and landmarks that dot the route.
As you reach Tarbert, you have officially arrived on the breathtaking Isle of Harris, where you can immerse yourself in its natural beauty and explore its charming villages, ancient sites, and sandy beaches.
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