Why Barra is better

The Isle of Barra, often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Hebrides’, is second to none for landscape and breathtaking views but is often overlooked in favour of its more popular cousins, such as the Isle of Skye. Completely remote, Barra - on the southern tip of the Outer Hebrides - is a wonderful escape for anyone looking to really get away from it all.

Famous for its links to the Clan MacNeil, the island is steeped in Scottish history. Recently, Channel 4’s ‘Time Team’ visited to investigate Bronze and Iron Age remains whilst a purpose built Heritage Centre, maintained by the islands historical society, provides a window into the history, culture and language of the beautiful Island.

For those looking to quench their literary thirst, Barra is the setting of the famous novel Whisky Galore (later filmed on location in Barra), and now the resting place of its author Compton Mackenzie.

On the island, the Castlebay village is the main settlement and home to the best hotel in the area. The 19th Century Castlebay Hotel, nestled back from the settlement into the hillside, has recently been expanded and modernised to offer spacious rooms and en suite facilities as standard, as well as a sun porch which provides stunning views over the bay. Well known for the high standard of food, the restaurant serves a menu offering diverse options such as wild boar, hare and venison alongside more traditional dishes which utilise the fresh seafood and shellfish which is landed daily on the Island. Beef, pork and Barra lamb regularly feature whilst vegetarians are also well catered for. The bar next door offers a warm welcome and some local entertainment.

Barra can also lay claim to one of the most spectacular medieval structures in the Outer Hebrides. Originally a Viking stronghold, Kisimul Castle later became associated with the infamous Clan MacNeil when engaging in activities verging on piracy in the Western Isles. The Castle sits on a tiny island and lay in ruins for centuries until a renovation took place in the early 1900s and the castle can now be visited as a tourist attraction.

If looking to expand horizons and experience more of the Hebridean Isles, those which surround Barra can easily be incorporated into any itinerary. South of Barra sits a small group of Islands referred to as ‘The Bishops Isles’ on account of their previous ownership by the church. Boat trips regularly head down the stretch of water on sightseeing tours. The other islands which form the group of the Outer Hebrides – Eriskay, South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist, Lewis and Harris – are also well worth a visit and can be incorporated into the stay as a day trip or visited as part of a Hebridean tour. A combination of road and sea link the various islands with the closest isles of Eriskay and South Uist easily accessible for a day trip.

Barra is an island of breathtaking beauty and true Scottish appeal. The most amazing way to arrive on the island is by air, landing on the only beach airstrip in the world to accept scheduled aircraft. Ferries also operate from Oban and Eriskay

For more information in the Isle of Barra and the Hebrides visit isleofbarra.com and visitthebrides.com.

To book a room at the Castlebay Hotel visit Castlebayhotel.com. Winter rates operate from October to April with rooms starting at just £49 per room per night.