Adventures
For ideas of the many things you can do on North Uist you can visit the Outer Hebrides Tourism site or download the app.
From our jaw dropping sunrises to spectacular sunsets, you will never be bored here on North Uist. Here’s a few of our favourite things to do on the islands.
Wild swimming
North Uist is made for wild swimming. Some of the cleanest, clearest water in Britain laps mile after mile of empty white-shell beaches — so take your pick: slip into a shallow, sun-warmed tidal pool on a still day, or throw yourself into the rough-and-tumble of the Atlantic surf when the waves are up. The bays shelve gently, the sand is pristine, and more often than not you’ll have the whole beach to yourself. Bring a towel and your dog — and always check the tides before you head in.
Wild swimming
Go otter tracking & seal spotting
Thanks to miles of coastline, sea pools and fresh water lochs and burns, we have a thriving population of otters here on Uist. In an attempt to try and protect the otters on some of their common road crossing points, you will see a number of ‘otter crossing’ signs on causeways around the islands.
Steve Duffield took the stunning image of the otter above. You can book a trip with Steve at Western Isles Wildlife and get guided to some of their favourite places. Another very memorable sighting when you’re lucky enough to see one! Steve can also guide you to lots of other hot spots for wildlife and make sure you get the most out of your time exploring the wildlife throughout Uist.
Take a boat trip to Mingulay
Mingulay — sometimes called the “Near St Kilda” — is a spectacular, long-abandoned island south of Barra, famous for towering sea cliffs among the highest in Britain and the thousands of puffins, kittiwakes and razorbills that nest there each summer. The waters around it teem with wildlife, and basking sharks are a regular sight. Uist Sea Tours run boat trips from Eriskay down through the blue waters of the Minch, with time ashore to explore. Trips are seasonal — check current availability with Uist Sea Tours.
Lady Anne Wildlife Cruises
When the largest bird in the UK swoops down alongside your boat to take a fish for his supper, you won’t be the only person on board to gasp at the sight.
Nick and Nye at Lady Anne Boat Trips has been working with the resident pair of white-tailed eagles (also known as sea eagles) for many years now. The chances of an eagle flying low beside you are high and the photo opportunities are out of this world. The experience isn’t just limited to eagles, you’ve a real chance of spotting a rich variety of other seabirds, dolphins, otters and even deer as they swim to neighbouring islands. This is a gentle and comfortable boat ride around the sheltered coast line of Grimsay.
When Nye has safely delivered you back to shore you can walk straight to Kallin Seafood cafe and feast upon a hearty meal of lobster and chips, scallops or prawns – it’s a perfect ending to a perfect adventure!
Photographs © Lady Anne Boat Trips.
Explore the Sound of Harris by RIB
Sea Uist run open-boat (RIB) sightseeing adventures from Berneray Harbour, weaving out through the islands and wildlife-rich waters of the Sound of Harris — part of a National Scenic Area and the Hebrides Marine Protected Area. It’s an exhilarating way to get out on the water and take in the coastline, seabirds and seals, with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland. Book direct with Sea Uist.
Go trout fishing
Enjoy peaceful fishing trips on the many lochs of North Uist.
Visit Harris
Take a day trip to the Isle of Harris to see Luskentyre, Callanish Stones and Rodel Church.
Your stay at Uist Forest Retreat means you are perfectly placed to explore the best of all Outer Hebrides from a single, central location. No need to pack and unpack, settle in your cabin and take day trips to explore other islands and highlights of the Hebrides.
Luskentyre is famous for its beach that can be seen from the roadside. Rodel church is a beautiful building set in some stunning scenery. Finally, head for Callanish Stones, just don’t be an Outlander and hold on to one for too long……
Stay in & stargaze
Don’t forget to step out on your balcony on a dark clear night. Or sit in and turn out the lights! Admire the abundant stars, the milky way, and if you’re lucky you might even see the Northern Lights.
For aurora borealis updates, alerts and reports, follow Aurora Watch Western Isles.
Explore ancient places
Barpa Langais, the best preserved Neolithic chambered cairn in the Outer Hebrides. Built by Neolithic farming communities it is just one of the many magnificent archaeological sites that can be found all across Uist. Iron Age wheelhouses and standing stones are common throughout the Western Isles.
Ride in the ocean
Uist Community Riding School is based on the island of Benbecula, approx 30mins drive away.
The history of the ‘Saddle Club’ dates back to the 70’s, when the army had a permanent base here. The facilities were set up to provide riding and tuition for service personnel and their families; this was quickly extended to local residents also. The riding school is now community-owned and continues to cater for all levels of experience.
Golf on the machair
