About
After the ferry ride across the Sound of Harris, where you may catch sight of seals basking on the skerries, the route heads up the west side of South Harris with magnificent views out across sandy beaches to Taransay and the North Harris Hills. You will definitely want to linger awhile perhaps stopping off for a bite to eat at Talla na Mara. There are plenty of places to get down onto the beaches, but if you turn off the main road and ride down to Luskentyre, you will come to Tràigh Rosamul, which is perhaps the most famous with fine views and equally fine toilets.
The next part of the route consists of a steady climb on a new section of carriageway through the ‘lunar’ landscape of the interior of South Harris. If you want to extend your ride, you can drop down either of the minor roads that lead down to the rocky Bays area of South Harris and ride into Tarbert that way. Otherwise stick with the main road and enjoy the unfolding views across The Minch to Skye and the Scottish mainland. Tarbert is the main port and village on Harris, with two hotels - Harris Hotel and Hotel Hebrides down by the pier - and plenty of places to enjoy local food, buy Harris Tweed and visit the Harris Distillery. You can take the tour of the distillery and buy some Harris gin, but you’ll have to wait awhile to sample the whisky.
Map & Directions
- The Anchorage restaurant to the right
- Takeaway to the left. Turn to the right to follow the route
- Turn left. Ahead on the right is a Borrisdale Tweed Welcome point.
- Grocery Shop to the left
- To the right is Hebridean Mustard Company.
- To the left is Croft 36 honesty shop and Seallam! Heritage Centre. There is a cafe at the end of the road.
- Ahead on the right is Scarista House
- Talla na Mara Pit Stop and cycle repair point. Cafe and Flavour chocolate shop.
- Campsite to the left
- The route is straight on, but you can take a left to the famous Luskentyre Beach.
- Take a right here if you want to explore the east coast - some galleries and Harris Tweed shops.
- On the left is a road to Ceol na Mara B&B Pit Stop
- Tarbert is the end of this stage. Turn right for the Isle of Harris Distillery Pit Stop with a cafe and Essence of Harris Welcome Point. There is a Hotel Hebrides and Harris Hotel with grocery shops in the village.
