The Isle of Harris, An Introduction
submitted: 2008-04-10 14:55:47 |
by: JohnAngusMacleod
Total views: 24 |
Word Count: 658 |
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The Isle of Harris is a small island in the group of islands, off the west coast of Scotland, known as the Western Isles (which are also widely known as the Outer Hebrides). Many people will be familiar with the material called "Harris Tweed" which is hand made on the Isle of Harris and the Isle of Lewis (which is joined to Harris). Incredibly hard wearing the tweed has been popular since Victorian times when the upper classes of Great Britain became the first Scottish tourists.
Tarbert is the main village on the Isle of Harris and where you can catch the roll on roll off ferry. Tarbert is something of a picture postcard scene with the old houses along the narrow main street and more modern buildings appearing on terraces up one side of the narrow green valley it is set in. In stark contrast the ferry terminal and access road are very modern having been built relatively recently to ease congestion when the ferry is in port.
One of the first things you will notice about North Harris is the wonderful views of the North Harris hills (mountains). Driving around the area is something of an experience and highly enjoyable but care must be taken as much of the road is single track with passing places. At one point you will find yourself driving through a stone archway and into the grounds of Amhuinnsuide Castle (pronounced 'avan-soo-ee'). Don't be alarmed because, even though you pass right in front of the front door, you are still on the public highway.
About 15 minutes drive from Tarbert is the small island called the Isle of Scalpay which is joined to the Isle of Harris by a narrow single track bridge. Scalpay once had a population of well over 800 and was an incredibly busy fishing community. Today the population is less than 300 but there is still a small but active fishing fleet. The north harbour is where you will find the pier but one of the best places to visit involves a trek across open moorland. Eilean Glas lighthouse was the first built in Scotland erected in 1788. Now automated the buildings and surrounding grounds are both beautiful and interesting.
South Harris is very different to North Harris and many consider this area to be the most beautiful on the Isle of Harris. On the east side it is very rocky with many rocky coves and single track roads which twist and turn endlessly. On the west coast it is far greener with large area of machair leading onto some of the finest beaches in Scotland and views out to the island of Taransay (which hosted a survival type of televised competition some years ago).
Moving southwards you will notice many of the beaches to your right and, without noticing, you will be so astounded by the spectacular sights that you will, most probably, slow down dramatically. Please be prepared for this reaction as it may alarm anyone who is driving behind you. Even though many locals witness this often in the summer months it does not get any easier dealing with the anger this dangerous reaction causes.
The largest village on South Harris is Leverburgh. It is at Leverburgh that you can catch a CalMac ferry over to Berneray and the Uists. If you need to purchase fuel or supplies you will find a well stocked local shop and a local post office, which also stocks gifts and other interesting items.
The last point of your southerly journey around the Isle of Harris brings you to the village of Rodel. Once the main town of the Isle of Harris Rodel is only a very small village but it features the incredible medieval church of St Clements. This is a must see tourist attraction which you can collect the keys to at the nearby hotel. Outside is wonderful but it is inside that you can see the beautifully decorated tombs and head stones.
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Thinking of visiting Harris? Take a look at Isle of Harris guest house and Hebrides guest house
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