Discovering the Isle of Harris in a motorhome: Complete Guide
Introduction
Welcome to our ultimate guide for an unforgettable road trip on the Isle of Harris in Scotland! This small island at the end of Scotland takes you to unknown landscapes until now. We were lucky enough to spend two nights on this island and we have a memorable memory that we will try to tell you about here.
Yes sleep, what to see and what to eat on the island, we will discover it in this article.
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What are the Isle of Harris – Scotland?
History of Isle of Harris
The history of the Isle of Harris, located in Scotland, is as rich and mysterious as the landscapes that surround it. These islands, formed by the union of the islands of Lewis and Harris, have a history that goes back thousands of years. Traces of settlement dating back to the Stone Age have been discovered on these fertile lands, testifying to the presence of humans since time immemorial.
The Isle of Harris has also been marked by the influence of the Vikings, who left their indelible mark on the region. They brought with them their traditions, culture and knowledge of navigation and trade. This Viking influence can still be seen today, whether in place names or in local craftsmanship, notably the famous Harris Tweed.
Today, the Isle of Harris is a popular destination for tourists looking to marvel at breathtaking landscapes and immerse themselves in a fascinating history.
Geographic location
The island is located above the Isle of Skye, its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters emerge from a deep blue sea, creating a striking contrast with the imposing granite cliffs that line the coast. The raw and wild nature of this region is a true wonder for the eyes, and the fresh sea air envelops you as soon as you set foot on this enchanting land.
The magic of the Isle of Harris is enhanced by its isolated location, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in a world where tranquility reigns supreme. So let yourself be seduced by this unique destination and get ready for unforgettable experiences in the Isle of Harris!
How to get to Isle of Harris?
To get to the Isle of Harris by plane, you have several options. The nearest national airports are Inverness Airport and Aberdeen Airport, about 180 kilometers from the nearest town, Inverness.
If you want to take an international flight, Edinburgh Airport is about 370 kilometers away. Once you have arrived at one of these airports, you can take an internal flight to Stornoway Airport, located on the Isle of Lewis, which is connected to the Isle of Harris by a bridge. The flight takes about an hour and there are several flights per day.
If you prefer to travel by train, the nearest national lines are in Inverness and Aberdeen, about 180 kilometers from the nearest town, Inverness.
You can take a train to one of these cities from other major cities in the UK, such as Edinburgh or Glasgow. Once you have arrived in Inverness or Aberdeen, you will need to take another form of transportation to get to the Isle of Harris, such as an internal flight from Stornoway Airport or a ferry from Ullapool on the west coast of Scotland.
To get to the Isle of Harris by car or campervan from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, you will need to take several roads. First, take the M90 motorway towards the northwest to Perth. Then take the A9 north to Inverness.
From Inverness, you can take the A835 and A837 towards Ullapool, where you can take the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Once on the Isle of Lewis, you can cross the bridge to get to the Isle of Harris. Be sure to check ferry schedules and fares in advance, as they may vary depending on the season.
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To access the United Kingdom, we did not pass through the Tunnel or take the Ferry from Calais, we left from the Netherlands! From Rotterdam, it is quite possible to quickly reach the United Kingdom. So just follow the East coast of the country to reach the wonderful world that is Scotland!
Climate: When to visit Isle of Harris in a campervan?
| Month | Avg temperature (°C) | Rain (mm) | Weather | Opinion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 3°/8° | 70mm | ❄️ | Very unfavorable |
| February | 3°/8° | 56mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| March | 4°/9° | 62mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| April | 5°/11° | 53mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| May | 8°/13° | 48mm | ☁️ | Unfavorable |
| June | 9°/15° | 47mm | ☁️ | Unfavorable |
| July | 11°/17° | 50mm | ☁️ | Not very favorable |
| August | 11°/17° | 58mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| September | 9°/15° | 52mm | 🌦️ | Not very favorable |
| October | 6°/12° | 61mm | 🌧️ | Unfavorable |
| November | 4°/9° | 58mm | 🌦️ | Unfavorable |
| December | 3°/7° | 69mm | ❄️ | Very unfavorable |
We can only advise you to visit Isle of Harris in the summer, when temperatures are mild and the days are longer. This is the ideal time to enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, if you’re lucky enough to have sunshine, it’s almost a Thailand-like landscape that awaits you.
Places to sleep and camper van service areas in Isle of Harris
- 📍🥇 Luskentyre Beach (Traigh Losaig): A breathtaking beach with crystal clear waters and fine sand. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view and relax in a picturesque setting.
- 📍🥈 Horgabost Beach (Traigh Hòrais): A peaceful beach with white sandy shores and green hills in the background. It’s the perfect place to relax, take a walk along the shore, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Isle of Harris.
- 📍🥉 Seilebost Beach (Traigh Sheileboist): A secluded beach offering turquoise waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- 📍 Rodel (Roghadal): A charming coastal village with picturesque landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Isle of Harris while enjoying the beauty of the coast.
- 📍 Scalpay (Sgalpaigh): A small island with beautiful landscapes and a quiet ambiance. Explore scenic hiking trails, discover a variety of flora and fauna, and soak in the serenity of this remote island.
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Among these spots, we stayed at a camper van service area in the north of the island, at Reef Beach, which was a heavenly place. If we had had a little more food, we could have stayed there forever. The beach was exceptionally beautiful, and yet we were lucky to see a few. It’s simple, we felt like we were in another hemisphere.
Where and what to eat in Isle of Harris?
Restaurants in Isle of Harris
- 🍽️ The Machair Kitchen: Discover a true Scottish feast in this rustic and authentic restaurant.
- 🍽️ Temple Cafe: This is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious traditional Scottish breakfast.
- 🍽️ Croft 36: Come and experience exceptional seafood cuisine in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
- 🍽️ Scarista House: This chic and elegant restaurant is the perfect place for a special occasion.
- 🍽️ The Anchorage: Enjoy stunning views of the beach while indulging in delicious and hearty dishes.
Specialties of Isle of Harris
The culinary specialties of the Isle of Harris, in Scotland, are both delicious and authentic! Seafood is highlighted in the traditional dishes of this region, with fresh seafood such as scallops, oysters, and langoustines. You can also taste haggis, an iconic dish of Scottish cuisine, as well as dishes made with Highland lamb. Expect to be amazed by the unique flavors and irresistible textures of these local specialties. Bon appétit!
Among these restaurants, we didn’t go to any because we were in a too remote camp, so we ate directly in our campervan. But we passed by some authentic restaurants that smelled like the desire to return one day to these islands.
Travel Budget for a Road Trip to Isle of Harris
The currency used in Scotland is the British Pound (GBP). Plan on a budget of at least £92 (approx. $125) per day per person.
– Meal in a mid-range restaurant: £25 (approx. $34)
– Fast-food menu: £6 (approx. $8)
– Local beer (50 cl draft): £4 (approx. $5)
– Single public transport ticket: £2.5 (approx. $3)
– Monthly public transport pass: £65 (approx. $88)
– Unleaded gasoline (1 liter): £1.4 (approx. $2)
– Budget hotel (room for two people): £58 (approx. $79)
– Mid-range hotel (room for two people): £89 (approx. $121)
– High-end hotel (room for two people): £148 (approx. $201)
– Pair of jeans (Levis 501 or equivalent): £58 (approx. $79)
– Summer dress in a major chain (Zara, H&M..): £29 (approx. $39)
– Pair of sports shoes: £62 (approx. $84)
If Scotland is on your travel radar as an American, allocate a daily budget starting at £92 (about $125).
A meal in a mid-range restaurant will cost you £25 ($34), and a single ride on public transport is £2.5 ($3). Accommodation options span from £58 ($79) for budget hotels to £148 ($201) for luxury stays.
Shopping essentials like jeans and sports shoes are priced at £58 ($79) and £62 ($84), respectively. Don’t overlook exchange rates and potential transaction fees.
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What activities to do in Isle of Harris?
Here is a list of activities we invite you to do in Isle of Harris depending on your tastes and preferences:
– Strolling on the white sandy beaches
– Romantic dinner in a local restaurant
– Evening by the fire in a cozy cottage
– Visit to the Local History Museum
– Discovery of the island’s traditional crafts
– Exploration of the stunning landscapes of the Isle of Harris
– Hiking in the surrounding hills
– Cycling on the island’s cycling paths
– Kayaking or sailing in the crystal clear waters
– Traditional music festival
– Annual craft fair
– Golf competition on the island’s golf courses
Conclusion: Why visit or return to Isle of Harris?
In conclusion, the Isle of Harris in Scotland is a destination that will fulfill all your expectations. The fascinating combination of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious culinary specialties make it a unique and enchanting place. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a discerning foodie, you will surely find something to delight you in this destination. So, don’t hesitate any longer and set out to discover the Isle of Harris, you won’t be disappointed!
FAQ
To get to the Isle of Harris by car or campervan from the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, you will need to take several roads. First, take the M90 motorway towards the northwest to Perth. Then take the A9 north to Inverness. From Inverness, you can take the A835 and A837 towards Ullapool, where you can take the ferry to Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. Once on the Isle of Lewis, you can cross the bridge to get to the Isle of Harris. Be sure to check ferry schedules and fares in advance, as they may vary depending on the season.
We recommend visiting the Isle of Harris in the summer, when temperatures are mild and the days are longer. This is the ideal time to enjoy the beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also discover the cultural richness of the region during the festivals and events that take place during this period. So don’t wait any longer, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this wonderful summer destination in Scotland!
The culinary specialties of the Isle of Harris, in Scotland, are both delicious and authentic! Seafood is highlighted in the traditional dishes of this region, with fresh seafood such as scallops, oysters, and langoustines. You can also taste haggis, an iconic dish of Scottish cuisine, as well as dishes made with Highland lamb. Get ready to be amazed by the unique flavors and irresistible textures of these local specialties. Bon appétit!
– Traditional music festival
– Annual craft fair
– Golf competition on the island’s golf courses
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