Hebridean Way Walking Route Section G: Lochmaddy to Berneray

About

Height Climbed: 301m / 987ft

Height Descended: 312m / 1,025ft

Terrain: 5 miles following waymarker posts over pathless moorland; 5 miles on quiet single track roads.

The Hebridean Way leaves Uist in style with this wonderful exploration of the island’s north east corner.

After a warm up of some gentle road walking and a short hike around the lower slopes of Blathaisbhal, it is time to head off along the minor road to Lochportain. This is one of the least visited parts of  Uist and is wild, lonely and beautiful country.

Just past a cattle grid the route strikes off over moorland, following the coastline to the lower slopes of Beinn Mhòr, the obvious hill in the distance. The terrain looks daunting but plentiful boardwalks and good waymarking makes the walking much easier than it looks.

Despite its name (the Big Hill in Gaelic), Beinn Mhòr is a mere 190m high and the ascent is much easier than it appears. On the way up take time to admire the fabulous views south over Lochmaddy and the watery landscape of North Uist. As you near the top equally amazing views open up to the north.

The waymarker posts show the way down off the hill and the route meets the road at Loch an Sticir, with its remarkable iron age island fort. A short section of road walking follows, with breathtaking views over turquoise seas, until a short causeway leads to the lovely island of Berneray. You can stop here for the night or if you prefer, you can take the ferry to Leverburgh (1 hour) and stay in Leverburgh. Both villages have a good selection of accommodation.

The distances and timings above do not include any extra distance you may need to reach your accommodation for the night.