campsitelisting Campsites Listings © Siar Media 2012 Eoligarry Jetty There are spaces for a small number of motor homes (max 4-6) to pitch overnight next to the old jetty in the crofting township of Eoligarry, in the north of Barra . Visitors should note that this area is very restricted in size and surrounded by protected grazing land. Please respect crofts and pitch vehicles only in the obvious parking site next to the jetty. We ask that you do not camp on beaches or adjacent grazing land, or anywhere that blocks access or causes nuisance to residents. We also ask that you do not block access to the chemical waste disposal facility for other vehicles wishing to use it. Facilities: Water tap; two toilets at the jetty, and a chemical waste disposal facility. Visitors are requested always to use this CWF for chemical waste: it is an offence to empty such waste onto beaches or the machair or into any public toilets. No shops or hotels Two cafes not far away: The Otter Cafe at the ferry terminal for Eriskay/the Uists at Ard Mhor (2.5 miles); the Airport Cafe (1.5 miles).

These are open daily and serve drinks, snacks, and light meals. Both have carparks, but overnight camping in them is not permitted. Heathbank Hotel in Northbay (3.5 miles) has customer parking , a garden, bar and restaurant. It serves food, much of it locally sourced, including the famous Barra cockles, all day. Vatersay The island of Vatersay is connected to Barra by a causeway. It has magnificent beaches and spectacular walks. There are pitches for a small number of motorhomes next the township's community hall, the number of spaces is strictly limited. Visitors with vehicles must use only those areas which are clearly designated: we ask them never to park on verges or beaches, which causes erosion, or on grazing land, which puts stock at risk. Facilities: Water tap; one disabled toilet, open 24 hours, in the community hall. Community Hall Cafe run by volunteers, serves locally-made teas, scones, cakes, and snacks daily. No facility for treating chemical waste at present: visitors camping here should use the Chemical Waste Facility in Eoligarry. Please note it is an offence to empty chemical waste anywhere on the beach or machair or into any public toilets.

No shops or hotels on Vatersay: these can be found nearby at Castlebay (5.5 miles). 'Honesty Box' at the hall: proceeds go towards the maintenance of these facilities: we ask campers to consider a modest, and voluntary, contribution of £5 per day. Castlebay The main town on the island: all the shops, the petrol station, doctor's surgery, dentist, bank, post office, tourist office, sports centre, swimming pool, Heritage Centre and several hotels and cafes are located here, as is the ferry terminal for Oban and Lochboisdale. Internet access available in the library in the Community School. Wild Camping in Castlebay is not encouraged. There is an area east of Castlebay round the shore where tents can be pitched. Visitors with motorhomes wishing to pitch overnight in the town should note that parking areas are strictly limited: we ask them never to camp off- or on- road without permission from neighbouring residents, and to avoid camping in the obvious car-parking areas in the square and main street which are needed by shoppers. Please also avoid parking by the school, or in any area likely to cause a hazard to traffic or pedestrians, especially children. Facilities: Water available at Castlebay Pier.

Showers and toilets at the Ferry Terminal. The Swimming Pool and Sports Centre also has showers available for public use. Castlebay and Craigard Hotels have customer parking, and serve food, including locally sourced fish and shellfish, throughout the day. There are several cafes, Heritage Centre Cafe, Kismul Cafe on Main Street, Busy Bee cafe at Children’s Centre (across from School), The Deck located at Hebridean Toffee and overlooking Kisimul Castle serves gourmet food and offers wonderful panoramic views, and The Isle of Barra Hotel, situated on the west coast, north of Castlebay (3 miles) also has a bar and restaurant. It has parking for customers and overlooks a very beautiful beach. Other Areas It is possible to park motorhomes in a few other places on the islands, for limited periods only. There are a few obvious off-road pull-in 'viewing' sites as you travel the main circular Barra road. These areas have no facilities of any kind and are primarily designed for parking, or for day visitors wishing to walk, use adjacent beaches or simply enjoy the view! We ask motorhome owners to respect this, and limit their stay in these areas, so all visitors and residents may continue to enjoy access to them.

Limited spaces (no facilities) can be found at Scurrival: an area there, offroad (to the left, going north, by the rocky west beach) is available, for short stays only. Camping in tents, for those visitors who come to the islands on foot or by bicycle: Under Scotland's access laws, campers without motor vehicles are permitted virtually unrestricted access on Barra and Vatersay, other than within the boundaries or gardens of private houses or facilities (schools, hospitals, offices etc). This truly is 'wild camping': as such, all we ask of them is that they observe Scotland's Access Code: this can be read at Please note that, under the Code, and in order to avoid damage to the ground,campers should restrict their stays in one area to a maximum of 2/3 days. Available Areas: Mrs Morag MacNeil 1 Bogach Northbay Tel: (01871) 890 286 Spaces Available Scuribhal Campsite Angus John Morrison 10 Eoligarry Northbay Tel: (01871) 890 292 Mob: 07896471580 Spaces Available.

Access to Beach. Shower, toilet and hot water facilities Available. Waste disposal facilities within 500 yards of campsite. James MacNeil 15 ardmhor Tel: 890 251 Site is located in Grean, next to the Golf Course Alistair Gillies 38 Eoligarry Isle of Barra HS9 5YD Tel: (01871) 890 338 Mob: 07807652663 Spaces Available Water Facilities Available Michael MacNeil 12 Ardveenish Northbay Isle of Barra Tel: 01871 890 304 Water facilities available RJ Campbell 77 Borve Isle of Barra Tel: 01871 810 408 Mob: 0780 774 2594 Water Facilities Available Water Facilities Available Micheal MacLeod Croft No. 2 Scurrival Point Eoligarry Isle of Barra.

01871 890327 07772487169 / 07703526864 Electrical hook-up points, Water, Toilet waist disposal point, Litter deposit, good shelter, competative rates, beach access Croft 183 , there are hook ups , toilets , shower , laundry , kitchen facilities and hard standing pitches. Barra – Travel guide at Wikivoyage Understand[ edit ] Barra, Vatersay and the uninhabited smaller isles to the south - Pabbay, Sandray, Mingulay and Berneray - form the southernmost group in the Outer Hebrides, or Western Isles. Gaelic is widely spoken but everyone also speaks and uses English. Barra is a predominately Catholic island, so there are fewer restrictions on Sunday activities (shops etc.) than the islands further North. There are also some wayside shrines which is unusual in Scotland. The island featured on the BBC television series, "Island Parish". There is also a small Church of Scotland congregation.

Barra is the seat of Clan MacNeil, and Castle Kismul stands in on a rock in the bay of the island centre, Castlebay. A clan gathering takes place every two years, which reunites MacNeils from all over the world, some of whom are descendants of forced emigrants long ago. The population is over 1100, and the island has a busy community life. The Tourist Information Office [1] is in Main Street, Castlebay (01871 810336) and open from Easter to October only (usually opens for evening ferry arrivals). Coming off the ferry, take the right fork in the road and head up past the shops. Get in[ edit ] The island can be reached by Calmac ferry from Oban or Eriskay but is famous for its beach airport. By boat[ edit ] Caledonian MacBrayne connect Barra with the Oban on the mainland, Eriskay and Lochboisdale on South Uist . ScotRail trains and Citylink coaches to and from Glasgow connect with the ferries in Oban . The Summer schedule is as follows: Oban - Castlebay daily, taking 5+ hours.

An additional sailing on Thursday travels via Coll and Tiree . Eriskay daily, up to 5 per day, taking 40 minutes; this ferry lands at the north end of the island, and there are often (but not always) connecting buses to Castlebay . The first sailing on Sunday is request-only: passengers should telephone the Lochboisdale office by 14.00 on the Saturday before. During the winter (October - March) the Oban - Castlebay service operates only four days a week, with train connections from Glasgow on certain days only. By air[ edit ] Barra Airport uses the beach as the runway, which means that flight times vary with the tide. Flights from Glasgow and Benbecula on most days (weather permitting) are operated by Loganair as a franchise of FlyeBe [2] . The prices of the flight from Benbecula to Barra are fixed, extremely cheap, and well worth the experience. A Twin Otter aircraft provides a service from Glasgow, and, at the moment, goes to Benbecula and back - but this local service is under threat of closure due to Council cuts. Barra is linked by causeway to Vatersay to the South.

By bus and ferry[ edit ] As part of the Western Isles Overland Route combination of bus and ferry, you can travel in under a day from Stornoway on Lewis . By bus[ edit ] There are good bus services during the day Monday to Saturday, but little in the evening and none on Sundays. There are three bus routes: W32: to/from Castlebay via either the east or west coast to Northbay, the airport, Ardmhor slipway and Eoligarry. W33: between Castlebay and Vatersay The buses on Barra form part of a much larger network covering the length of the Western Isles , including a complete journey northbound and southbound to/from Ness. All Western Isles timetables may be found here . See[ edit ] 56.9521 -7.4873 1 Kisimul Castle , Castlebay, HS9 5UZ (five minute boat trip from Kisimul), ☎ +44 1871 810313 . 9:30-17:30. Small castle, but only accessible by boat in the summer (1 April - 30 September).

Adult £5.50, Child £3.30, Concession £4.40. 56.95619 -7.49646 2 Barra Heritage & Cultural Centre , HS9 5XD, ☎ +44 1871 810413 , e-mail: barraheritage@btconnect.com . M-Sa 10:30-16:30. A small exhibition and café in the school which is open in the summer (April - October). Adults £3, Concession £2, Children £1. 57.02546 -7.44928 3 The airport. worth stopping by to watch a plane land on the sand. 56.95522 -7.48495 4 The church. quite interesting, and gives good views of the bay. 56.9730 -7.5199 5 Tangasdale Beach. 56.9670 -7.4689 6 Heaval.

From the shoulder of Heaval, the highest peak, look south to the cliffs of Mingulay and the Barra Head lighthouse on Berneray. From the top of Heaval, on a very clear day, it is possible to see Ireland. The walk up Heaval takes around 40 minutes, and about two-thirds of the way up there is a statue of the Madonna and Child overlooking Castlebay. All along the east side are views of the inner isles, and on a clear day the hills of Rhum and the peaks of the Cuillins look very close. The north end of the island offers very clear views of nearby uninhabited islands, as well as Eriskay and the Stack Isles, including "Weaver's Castle", and Ben More in South Uist is particularly striking. On a clear day you can see as far as North Uist. The west looks to the Atlantic Ocean, and its breakers are spectacular as they encounter the cliffs at Grean Head, or pound against the rocks that line the coast road. 56.925 -7.541 7 Vatersay (Linked to Barra by a vehicle causeway. Buses run from Castlebay).

Vatersay, like the west and north of Barra, has beaches of the very highest quality, white, fine and often empty. Vatersay commemorates the sinking of the emigrant ship, "The Annie Jane", and the loss of a Catalina Aircraft in World War II. It also has an important archeological site, known as "Allt Chrisal" as well as other historical ruins such as the site of St Brendan's Chapel. 57.0394 -7.4342 8 Chapel of Cille Bharra (in Eoligarry at the north end of the island). The island's Viking history is preserved not only in many of its place-names but also in the small chapel of Cille Bharra. This building has been restored, and contains a replica of a stone containing both Viking runes and Celtic designs. The stone commemorates the Christian burial of a Viking princess - Thorgeth, daughter of Steinar. The orioginal stone is kept in Edinburgh. In the graveyard here is the grave of Compton MacKenzie, who took the idea for the story "Whisky Galore" from the sinking of "The Politician" during World War II.

It is thought that Mackenzie used the idea and possibly some of the drafted text about which a local school teacher had asked him his opinion. free. 57.00112 -7.42570 9 Northbay. A local artist has created a statue of St Barr, the island's saint, in the little bay at Northbay, and the same artist, Margaret Somerville, created the shell pictures of seabirds and fish that you will see in various locations. Do[ edit ] On a calm day, take a boat trip (enquire locally) to one of the uninhabited islands to the south. 57.01217 -7.49086 1 Barra Golf Club, Cleat, HS9 5XX. Most westerley golf course in Scotland. 56.95606 -7.49134 2 Sea canoeing . There are boat trips to Mingulay in good weather, giving a chance to see its spectacular cliffs close up as well as a colony of puffins and other wildlife. Heritage Centre.

In Castlebay, near the Community School, is the Heritage Centre, and the school itself has a swimming pool and fitness suite, as well as a community library with internet facilities. There are many walks, of varying levels, along beaches or uphill. The island has several ruined 'duns' or Iron Age fortified positions, which served as look-out and sometimes refuge points, the idea being if a beacon was lit at one site you could see it from the next and pass on the signal that invaders were approaching. There are several local events that have become internationally known. The Barrathon. The "Barrathon" at the end of June is a half-marathon run round the island's thirteen miles of circular road. Registration for this is fast and furious, as competition for places is high. "BarraFest" is a music festival that takes place at the end of August, on the 'machair' or grass land near the sand dunes at Tangusdale on the West Side. There are also the Barra Games in July, and a Gaelic Festival, or Feis, as well as the "Fisherman's Mass", or blessing of the fleet, not to forget the Heaval Race, which includes runners of every age.

MacNeil Clan Gathering. If you are a MacNeil then you are eligible to come to the famous Clan Gathering. Buy[ edit ] 56.95549 -7.49850 1 Co-op . At Castlebay (South side of the bay, near the school) is open Mon-Sat 08:30-20:00, Sun 12:30-18:00. 56.95462 -7.48646 2 Grocer, Main Street, Castlebay. sells newspapers. 56.95527 -7.48599 3 Hardware store, in Castlebay. The local newspaper is "Guth Bharraigh", which will tell you what's on. In Castlebay there is a Tourist Office and petrol/diesel pumps. The local initiative "Island Markets" gives an opportunity for local people to sell their produce in the community school or hall, and an associated local produce shop, Buth Bharraigh, is currently being established.

Hebridean Toffee (the toffee shop), castlebay, isle of barra (turn first left after leaving ferry), ☎ +44 1871 810898 , e-mail: heart-hebrides@btconnect.com . 9-5. Scottish tablet made and sold here. Local quality crafts and gifts all year round Eat[ edit ] The meals in the hotels in Castlebay can be good, especially the fresh local fish and shellfish. Isle of Barra Beach Hotel, Tangasdale Beach. Castlebay Hotel. The food is reasonable value and quite good quality. The service is an excellent exapmle of Island hospitality. The seafood options are good. Craigard Hotel. Dualchas Café, in the Heritage Centre, Castlebay. daytime only. Cafe Kisimul , Castlebay (by the harbour, down from the petrol pumps in Castlebay), ☎ +44 1871 810645 , +44 1871 810870 . Morning 'til late. In the evenings this cafe provides excellent food with a mixture of Italian and Indian cuisines.

The aroma of the Indian food is just too inviting. Great staff with a trattoria like atmosphere. Only about 6 indoor tables. It is advisable to book at weekends and in high season. If you like Indian style food just don't walk past in the evening ... that aroma is just too much and you might kick yourself for not booking a table. Not expensive. Northbay. has its own, smaller, hotel. For those wishing more of a snack meal there are cafés in Castlebay, and the village halls in Vatersay and Northbay offer coffees, teas, home baking and gifts. The Deck (the toffee shop), castlebay, isle of barra (first left after leaving ferry), ☎ +44 1871 810898 , e-mail: heart-hebrides@btconnect.com . 9-5. The highest quality local food and drink and daily fresh home baking on the deck. Drink[ edit ] Each of the four hotels has its own bar or cocktail lounge. There are often dances and ceilidhs which are either licensed to sell alcohol or where you are expected to bring your own bottle. Castlebay Hotel. Often has live music late on Saturday Nights.

The local group "The Vatersay Boys" are very popular locally and will get you up and dancing. Craigard Hotel. Halaman Bar, Isle of Barra Beach Hotel. (This is located several a few km out of Castlebay. Large car park.). Architect designed, it looks really posh. Great place to watch the sunset. Hostels[ edit ] Dunard Hostel (Castlebay), ☎ +44 1871 810443 . Is a 16 bed hostel which caters for families as well as individuals. Book well in advance to stay in summer. A few minutes walk from the ferry. Bed & breakfast[ edit ] Some can be found on the tourist board website [3] , but many are no longer listed due to the charges and "hassle". Self catering[ edit ] Renting a house for a week or more is a popular option. Such places are generally let from Saturday to Saturday. Some of these can be found on the tourist board website [4] . Hotels[ edit ] Castlebay Hotel , ☎ +44 1871 810223 . Is a few minutes walk from the ferry.

Website also has general info on the island. Head north to the islands to Eriskay , South Uist , Benbecula , North Uist , Harris , Lewis , maybe taking the ferry or flight back to the mainland from Stornoway . The Hebridean Hopscotch ticket offers an opportunity to travel either north to Uist from Barra or south to Oban. Going north, you can take a ferry to Harris and drive or take public transport to the main town of Stornoway in Lewis. If you take a ferry from Lochmaddy in North Uist yiou can continue your holiday through Skye. Going south, you can choose a ferry once a week that will take you to Tiree or Coll, or go straight to Oban, from which ferry connections to islands such as Mull or Colonsay are easy. Bus and train connections are available from Oban to take you anywhere in Scotland. This city travel guide to Barra is a usable article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page .

Welcome to Castlebay Scotland hotels, holidays and accommodation by Madbookings - Castlebay Scotland online, hotels, holiday cottages, camp sites and places to stay in Castlebay Scotland. Welcome to Castlebay Scotland The village of Castlebay is the main village on the Isle of Barra in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It is located on the south coast of the island, and overlooks a bay in the Atlantic Ocean, as well as nearby islands such as Vatersay. Most visitors to Barra will find themselves in Castlebay sooner rather than later, enjoying its beautiful setting, relaxed atmosphere and friendly residents. The village is home to one of the important transport hubs of the island - the main ferry terminal. Steam ferries were known to be travelling between Castlebay and Oban in the late 1800s, albeit with notorious travelling conditions. In the 1980s, a roll-on-roll-off car ferry terminal was finally built in Castlebay, allowing much larger ferries to arrive on Barra. The ferry travels daily between Oban, Castlebay and Lochboisdale on the island of South Uist, sometimes stopping on the Isle of Mull.

The island's ringroad, the A888, connects Castlebay to the rest of the island by road. Accommodation in and around Castlebay Price Guide - per person based on sharing room: under $40 - Isle of Barra Outer Hebrides - Travel Accommodation Sightseeing Clan MacNeil in Canada . BEN HEAVAL (384 metres) Hill overlooking Castlebay. The record to run to the top and back in the annual hill race stands at 24 minutes. Halfway up the side is "Our Lady of the Sea", a white marble statue of the Madonna and Child. VATERSAY This island just south of Castlebay was linked to Barra by a causeway in 1990. I believe that there is a bus from Castlebay from Monday to Saturday. Sites on this tiny island include: the remains of a Catalina flying boat which crashed near the road during the Second World War, Vatersay Bay, a sandy beach on the eastern side of the island, the monument to victims of a shipwreck which occurred in 1853 when the Annie Jane left Liverpool bound for Quebec with hundreds of emigrants.

The ship was swept onto the rocky Vatersay coast and most of the passengers were drowned. Taking the main road in a clockwise direction from Castlebay on Barra you will see the following places of interest: MACLEOD'S TOWER - Dun Mhic Leoid (a few miles west of Castlebay) Also known as Castle Sinclair. Located on an islet in Loch Tangusdale is a medieval tower-house which originally had 3 storeys, measuring 2.9 x 2.6 metres inside, with walls 1.4 metres thick. Nearby is the so-called St. Columba's Well. BORVE Small standing stone near the roadside. CRAIGSTON Follow the dirt track up to the museum in a thatched cottage. Check opening times before you go though to avoid disappointment as it's a 15 minute walk from where you park your car. The times are usually posted there on a wooden signboard. DUN BHARPA A large well-preserved Neolithic chambered burial cairn 2.5 km south of the road (map grid reference NF 671019).

DUN CHUIDHIR (or Dun Cuier) Before the turn to Grean and Cleit, on a low hill close to the road, are the well-preserved remains of an Iron Age broch (map grid reference NF 664034). GREAN Nine-hole golf course with electrified fencing around the holes to keep the sheep away. Tickets available from hotels or the Tourist Information Centre in Castlebay. QUEEN VICTORIA'S ROCK Just outside Northbay. When viewed at the correct angle, resembles the monarch's distinctive profile. Overlooks a reservoir. NORTHBAY Start of the road leading up the Eoligarry peninsula. In the 1970s a fish processing plant was built at Ardveenish and this now includes a small shop selling fresh fish. You'll find a public telephone just before you get to Cockle Strand. BUAILE NAM BODACH Old village of 5 or 6 former dwelling houses on the shore of Loch na Obbe, near Bodach (just east of Northbay and south of the road end at Bruernish). Its Gaelic name means 'Meeting place of the old men'.

The Buaile nam Bodach Preservation Society was set up in January 1999 to raise funds for archaeological research on the site. It is thought that there may also be a buried Viking village in the same area. COCKLE STRAND (Eoligarry peninsula) Huge tidal beach which serves as the island's airstrip for regular flights from Glasgow and Benbecula. Unique in this country as being the only runway washed by the sea. Refreshments can be bought in the small airport terminal building. Toilets also available. The islanders go out collecting cockles from the wet sand. "Suidheachan", a huge white bungalow overlooking Cockle Strand was built for famous author Compton Mackenzie in 1935. The house used to belong to Harold and Brenda Couzens who did B&B and ran a small harling business. When they retired the house was bought in October 1996 by Sir Compton's great nephew, Alan Mackenzie Howard (an actor), and his partner Sally Beauman (a writer).

If you cut across the grass opposite the airport building and head into the dunes to the rear of "Suidheachan", you will come to a wonderful beach called Traigh Eais which looks westwards out across the Atlantic ocean. Over a mile long, at times it is often deserted. COMPTON MACKENZIE'S GRAVE The novelist's very plain grave (a simple cross) can be found in Cille Bharra cemetery which is situated a little way up the hillside overlooking Eoligarry jetty. Two 12th-century chapels stand in the middle, one lays in ruins, whilst the other has been restored to house carved stones and a sort of Catholic shrine. EOLIGARRY Jetty from which ferries used to sail over to Ludag on South Uist and the island of Eriskay . DUN SCURRIVAL isleofbarra.com Miscellaneous list of B&Bs: Mrs. Linda Maclean, Tigh Na Mara , Castlebay. Tel: 01871 810 304. Family guest house. 2 minutes walk from ferry. 5 bedrooms (single, double, twin).

There are 4 hotels on the island: Castlebay Hotel . 3 stars. Tel: 01871 810 223. Craigard Hotel in Castlebay. Tel: 01871 810 200. 3 stars. Rooms: 3 double, 3 twin, 1 family (all ensuite). Open all year. Heathbank Hotel - a 3 star inn with 5 ensuite bedrooms at Northbay. Tel: 01871 890266. Isle of Barra Hotel , Tangasdale Beach. 30 rooms. Large modern building, family run, good food, nice location on the west coast of the island overlooking a beach near the main road. Tel 01871 810383. Several self-catering places are available on the island. These include: Mingulay Cottage at Bruernish in the north-east of Barra sleeps up to 6 people. Dunard Hostel offers accommodation in Castlebay 5 minutes walk from the ferry and shops. 4-star, family run hostel with 16 beds. Sea kayaking trips can be organised. Contact Chris & Kate.

Tel/Fax: 01871 810 443. Tourist Information Centres Castlebay, Isle of Barra (telephone: 01871 810336) - open from Easter to October only. Open all year is the main office in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis (telephone: 01851 703088 / fax: 01851 705244). Books Book cover copyright kea publishing Times subject to tides: the story of Barra Airport (ISBN 0951895834). Published in 2000. Orders can be placed directly with the publisher: kea publishing or via Amazon UK The book 'tells the story of this unique airport which disappears under the sea twice every day. It looks at the aircraft which have graced the broad sands of the Traigh Mhor, the personalities whose names have become indelibly linked with the island's air services, and at some of the drama which has inevitably become an accepted feature on certain occasions, not least of which are emergency air ambulance evacuations of seriously ill or injured islanders'.

Other Hebridean islands: Must See Scotland - Barra, Outer Hebrides - where the plane lands on the beach. Must See Scotland Barra, Outer Hebrides - where the plane lands on the beach. The island of Barra offers many typical Outer Hebridean themes: strong Gaelic identity, sense of heritage, plus amazing beaches. Hope for sun though. Barra Almost the south end of the Outer Hebrides Castlebay is the main centre on the island of Barra, down at the southern end of the Outer Hebrides. These islands on the western rim of Scotland end like a chain shedding links. At the bottom end – the south end – from South Uist, a causeway leads to tiny Eriskay, then it’s 40 minutes on the ferry to Barra, in turn joined by a causeway to another tiny island: Vatersay. After that, well, there are other bare and rocky outcroppings – of which the best-known is Mingulay, thanks to a song – but none occupied these days. So Barra is the full stop on the island sentence. It’s kinda round like a full stop or period as well. What’s it got?

Well, that all depends on whether or not the sun shines. If you waken up on the first morning and look out to a perfect reflection of Kisimul Castle in the bay and the sky is blue, then get that breakfast over and done with quickly. There are beaches to see, sands to stroll on, views to admire. Traigh Eais, near the aiport on Barra (Above) This is Traigh Eais, which is probably not Gaelic for ‘the beach at the back of the airport’. Nevertheless, that’s where it is. And there are plenty more. What to see on the Isle of Barra If it’s raining then, I suppose, you could visit Kisimul Castle. Ho-hum. (By the way, ho-hums on this website are never that good.) Or take in Barra Heritage and Cultural Centre. Or…watch the plane land on the beach…or…well, just wait around till the rain stops. Drive round the island perhaps. It won’t take you long. Cyclists should check the wind direction first. Here are some pictures of Barra in the sunshine. I thought I was going to get some kind of snow-blindness, so white were the sands.

There is a ‘Three Beaches” walk on adjoining Vatersay but you may be beguiled on any one of them just to sit slack-jawed, listening to the water and the cries of seabirds. There will be no other sound. Many of Barra’s beaches are only seconds from a parking place, should you be of a particularly indolent disposition. There is archaeology too; ancient religious sites…piles of significant stones of various sorts. There is a deserted village (Balnabodach) reiterating the prevailing Hebridean theme of desertion, depopulation and/or wicked forced clearance. Colonel Gordon of Cluny is an infamous name around here. Many of these themes can be explored at the heritage centre, Dualchas, in Castlebay. Castlebay from the Vatersay Road (Above) Castlebay from the Vatersay Road. Could I get a picture with the sun on the houses? Nope - though the sun shone on Vatersay just minutes later. (See below.) But at least it shows there is a castle and a bay.

Beach on Vatersay Kisimul Castle in Castlebay on the Isle of Barra Eating on Barra As for refreshments and accommodation, there is of course a choice of bed and breakfasts and self-catering places. We ate at the Castlebay Hotel. Delicious soups, disappointing main courses. Choose carefully. And we only got our beer in the pub part of the hotel after the barman had finished his cigarette and detached himself from a bunch of lads standing outside in the evening sunshine. But, hey, it was a nice beer and worth waiting for. Oh, and the Barra Airport cafe does a perfectly acceptable coffee. In Castlebay, the Hebridean Toffee Company used to do really lovely flaked smoked salmon sandwiches. (I’d written about that on the Eriskay page and just changed it!) Now they don’t. Sorry. They still do coffee and sweet stuff though, as their name suggests. Castlebay has (as we have pretty firmly established by now) a castle in the bay. Johanna visited. Kisimul Castle is in the care of Historic Environment Scotland, our government agency charged with stopping very old historic things from falling down totally.

Oystercatcher and thrift Usually they are very good on interpretation, but Johanna returned disappointed from this castle experience. Kisimul Castle has little interpretation in its sparse rooms. Your £5.50 (2014) also buys you a walk round the ramparts, ho-hum, and a wee circuit by boat of the rocky islet on which the fortress sits, though the boatman seems of a taciturn disposition plus the whole experience only takes about half an hour. (Pictured) Oystercatcher (right) with thrift (left). Common all around the Scottish coasts, the oystercatcher’s piping call reaches a peak of hysteria during the breeding season. The thrift plant meanwhile, used to appear on old threepenny bits but (if you are from the UK) most of you won’t remember that anyway. But it’s a characteristic coastal plant. Anyway, after this wholly uncharacteristic Historic Environment Scotland offering, Johanna was doubly disappointed when she learned that I had been sitting in the sunshine on the rocks near the dunes at Tangasdale – just a couple of minutes drive from Castlebay – and had seen an otter.

I missed the photo and had to make do with an oystercatcher and some thrift though. I hope you’ll make do with it as well. Memorial to wartime Catalina flying-boat crash. Wreckage next to memorial. Vatersay. Poignant Memorials of War Meanwhile, there is another theme, possibly not always noticed, that runs through Barra and up into the rest of the Outer Hebrides. We were reminded of it on the road to Vatersay – a gully full of aluminium spars and sheeting. The broken metal once was a Catalina, a wartime flying boat. A very dignified little memorial records the tragic loss of some of the crew when the plane crashed nearby. Even more poignantly, there was a little wreath at its base, left by the family of one of the crash survivors. He lived till 2011. His comrades died in 1944. On the same topic, though the localities are mentioned on other pages on this site, when you get to Eriskay, take a look at the local kirkyard (just by the pub) and the sad little row in the corner of unidentified Merchant Navy graves.

Or visit the ancient churchyard of Nunton on Benbecula, where – amongst others – three Australian servicemen have their last resting place after their aircraft came down short of the runway at RAF Benbecula. It’s very sobering to find Commonwealth War Graves in such a seemingly remote rural setting. Just a reminder that these islands face the open Atlantic and had an important role to play in the WWII Battle of the Atlantic and the containment of the menace of the German U-boats. Barra, like the rest of the Outer Hebrides, is a very good place for otters. Pictured here is a Twin Otter that has just landed on the beach, or airport, as it is called on Barra. Is Barra worth visiting? So, overall, should you go to Barra? If you are outdoorsy, then, yes, probably. You might find better dining than we did on our last trip. You might get that great shot of the otter. (Wait on the rocks west of the bay at Tangasdale, a few minutues NNW of Castlebay – fine walk here towards Doirlinn Head.) But there are plenty of them about.

Barra makes a good introduction to the main themes of the Outer Hebrides, as mentioned here, if heading northbound. And its Gaelic speaking community is strong and resourceful. Read about one of the other Western Isles, say: Eriskay or the Uists and Benbecula; or the top end of the islands: Lewis or Harris. Barra Accommodation - Hotels, Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfast, Self Catering, Cottages, Caravans, Bunkhouses no smoking If you're looking for a bed in the Isle of Barra you will be most welcomed at the newly built Bed and Breakfast Sealladh Na Mara which overlooks the turquoise sea and white sandy beach with stunning views towards Eriskay. Sealladh na Mara bed and breakfast is situated in the north of the island with beautiful beaches and a cockle strand where you can pick cockles.

Accommodation:- - 1 double and 1 twin, both en-suite - double with bath and shower - twin with large shower - hospitality tray with tea, coffee, hot chocolate, herbal teas and biscuits - hair dryer in the room - dressing gowns - hot water bottles and ironing board available - wifi through out the premises - relaxing lounge with great views of the sea and Eriskay - DVDs available including Whisky Galore, a must-see while in Barra - no pet policy - no smoking on the premises - rake available if you would like to adventure on the cockle strand and pick cockles I am happy to cook them - off road parking I am about a mile from the Airport and beach runway and the Ardmhor Ferry to Eriskay. Castlebay is about a twenty minute drive from Ardmhor. When you arrive it will be at the back of the house which faces the road you can park here walk round to the front where you will find the porch entrance which faces the sea. The caravan is fully equipped with everything you need including a flatscreen TV and Freeview. A selection of board games for when the weather is less favourable is also available.

All linen, towels, gas and electricity is included in the price for your convenience. Short stays are considered for all months. The week generally runs from Sunday-Sunday. Someone may be available to pick you up from the airport or the ferry, on request. There is a regular bus route to Castlebay which is the main town and has shops, bars, sports, cafes and hotels. Distance from Castlebay is approx 5.5 - 6 miles. The caravan is situated in a private location and is within walking distance of two beautiful beaches. Found in the heart of the Hebrides on the beautiful Isle of Barra, Bayside is a traditional self catering holiday cottage located in the south of the island overlooking a scenic bay in the picturesque coastal village of Nask. Bayside is a well furnished and fully equipped holiday house accommodating five persons, comprising one double room, one twin room and one single room containing everything required for a comfortable stay. It is ideal for exploring the islands of Barra and Vatersay, their many beaches and rare wild flowers. The location is exceptional for cycling, golf, hill walking and kayaking.

The cottage is less than a mile from the ferry terminal, shops, hotels and amenities of Castlebay and nine miles from the world famous Barra Airport. no smoking Hillside Bed & Breakfast is less than 5 minutes walk from Castlebay ferry terminal and local amenities, and it's hosts are islanders Donald & Doreen MacNeil where you can be sure of a true Hebridean hospitality. At Hillside home cooking, baking and our guests' comfort and relaxation is our speciality in a home from home setting. Hillside has spectacular south facing views overlooking Kisimul Castle and Vatersay and one of the many beautiful beaches to be seen. The patio exclusively for our guests' use is a suntrap and is an excellent place to unwind, relax and enjoy the views and breathtaking sunsets. In the summer you may be lucky to hear a corncrake and sometimes they can be seen running across the garden. We have many years experience of the tourism trade and we will help to organise your day, as well as arrange day trips to Mingulay in the summer, weather permitting, to see the amazing high cliffs and the great variety of seabirds including the puffin.

2007 winner of Who Cares Wins Customer Service Excellence Award for Bed & Breakfast/Guest House Our accommodation for guests' use are: * 2 double en-suite bedrooms. * 1 single bedroom with private bathroom, dressing gown provided in single room. * tea/coffee/hot chocolate/cappuccino making facilities in bedrooms along with complimentary sweets,tissues, cotton buds, cotton wool balls, shampoo/shower gel. * for your comfort and convenience a hair dryer is supplied in each bedroom. * we are renowned for our huge breakfasts to start your day, served with fresh home baked white or brown bread toasted, you can't beat the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste is scrumptious as our guests tell us each morning * residents' lounge with Sky TV/DVD, a supply of DVDs for guests' use, including 'Whisky Galore' a must to watch; we also have a fantastic selection of Barra photos and local books for your interest * freshly home-baked scones, pancakes and cakes and chocolate tray bakes all made by Doreen can be enjoyed with a cup of tea/coffee; a selection is supplied as standard in each bedroom daily * special diets catered for, please inform when booking.

* oil central heating with thermostatically controlled radiators throughout the house * private car parking * for guests' comfort we operate a no smoking policy * no pets allowed. Welcome to Taobh An Iar Caravans - Isle of Barra. Two and a half miles form main town of Castlebay where ferries arrive from Oban and Lochboisdale, and about 7 miles from the airport where the plane comes from Glasgow/Benbecula and lands on the beach/cockle strand. Caravan 1: modern comfortable caravan well equipped and close to lovely white sandy beaches. Bed linen, towels, teabags, coffee, sugar provided garden furniture also provided to enjoy sunset in evenings. 2 bedrooms, accommodates up to 4. Caravan 2: modern luxury very comfortable caravan well equipped close to lovely white sandy beaches & the amenities of local hotel. Bed linen, towels, teabags, coffee, sugar provided garden furniture also provided to enjoy sunset in evenings. 3 bedrooms, accommodates up to 6. Bed linen, towels, iron/board, hairdryer, tea bags, coffee and sugar are all provided. Garden furniture provided to enjoy sunset and views.

Hillside is a luxury cottage designed for couples or families of 4, and is situated in Glen, Castlebay. The cottage has spectacular south facing views overlooking Kisimul Castle and Vatersay and one of the many beautiful beaches to be seen. A welcome tray with home baking on your arrival is supplied. The accommodation consists of:- * oil central heating (included in price) * fully fitted kitchen with electric hob and oven, microwave, coffee maker, dishwasher, washing machine, fridge freezer * sitting room with Sky TV/DVD/video/mini hi-fi, a large selection of books, children's board games and jigsaw puzzles are also supplied.

* 1 double bedroom, 1 twin bedroom * 1 bathroom with electric shower (upstairs) * 1 large shower room with toilet (downstairs) * payphone * patio area with garden furniture to front of cottage to enjoy the splendid views, all day sun and breathtaking sunsets * child's travel cot, high chair and stair gates available * electricity is by pre paid key meter * bed linen and towels supplied * private parking Isle of Barra Caravan Accommodation - Taobh an Iar Caravan, Isle of Barra, Scotland Enquiries Contact: Taobh an Iar Caravan Your request is sent direct and will be answered shortly. Caravan Two is a modern luxury caravan that sleeps up to 6 persons in three bedrooms. There is a lounge area, a kitchen/dining area with a table and seating for 6 persons and a shower room. The caravan is equipped with a gas cooker/ microwave and electric/gas fires. Prices from: ï¿½250 per week Bed linen, towels, iron/board, hairdryer, tea bags, coffee and sugar are all provided. Garden furniture provided to enjoy sunset and views.

Situated two and a half miles from the ferry in the main town of Castlebay, our caravans are also about ten miles from our cockle beach airport where the plane arrives from Glasgow/ Benbecula. If you like hill climbing there are a few on the island with beautiful views of other islands on a clear day. A must to climb is Heaval, the highest on the island. With a beautiful location and great facilities, our holiday caravans are perfect for your visit to the Isle of Barra. Prices from: ï¿½100 - ï¿½250 per week ï¿½ UK Accommodation Index (.com) All rights reserved Scottish Accommodation Index, 111 West George St, Glasgow, Scotland G2 1QX . Craigard Hotel - Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays About us Craigard Hotel The ‘getaway’ feeling The Islands are another world from the hustle and bustle of mainland living. Scenery quite spectacular. Total welcome from everyone.

Gordon and Christine – 2014 Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays Clients Amenities Harbour views from some rooms Lounge bar Shops within walking distance Price Group 4 Perched on the hillside above Castlebay, guests at the Craigard Hotel are treated to views of ships and smaller boats coming and going, Kisimul Castle in the bay, plus the expanse of the Isle of Barra’s natural harbour . Craigard Hotel – amazing views on the Isle of Barra. Comfort, relaxation, good company and excellent food. The Craigard Hotel aims to provide all the qualities you look for in a hotel, whether you visit the Isle of Barra. Because it’s only a minute or so drive (or walk) from the terminal for the Calmac ferry to Oban, the Craigard Hotel is a very convenient place to start or finish your Scottish island hopping holiday. The Craigard Hotel is situated on the hillside directly above the small town of Castlebay, with magnificent views over Kisimul Castle and beyond to the island of Vatersay. Parking is available on reasonably level ground behind the hotel, so guests need not climb long flights of steps to reach this amazing vantage point!

The unique beach airport of Barra is about six miles away and the main ferry terminal, shops and township centre are all within a quarter mile. The hotel is modern with residents’ breakfast room and a cosy TV lounge, which has an open fireplace plus comfortable sofa and chairs. There is also a choice of attractive bars, plus a pool room. Accommodation at the Craigard Hotel Each of the en-suite guest bedrooms is well appointed and comfortable, with tea and coffee making tray, TV, telephone, radio alarm and attractive fabrics Dining The restaurant enjoys the great view of the harbour, so it’s a pleasure to enjoy a dinner that has been prepared with quality local produce, including ‘catch of the day’ – renowned for its wonderful variety and freshness. Daily specials represent excellent value. “Craigard – Fantastic stay at the Craigard, Ii am working with a film crew on the island, come back at the end of a hard day to great food and clean bright rooms and very helpful staff..definitely be back as a holiday maker…highly recommended” – TripAdvisor member

Question: Castlebay is the main town on which Scottish island?
Answer: BARRA