The Isle of Barra Hotel :: Tangasdale :: Barra :: Outer Hebrides T: +44 (0)1871 810 383 E: stay@isleofbarrahotel.co.uk
2008: ROCKY ATLANTIC ISLE OF BARRA CROWNED BRITAIN'S BEST VILLAGE
The Isle of Barra is considered by many to be the most beautiful little island in Britain. It's tranquillity, distinctive Gaelic culture and language and fascinating history will make your visit to Barra a unique and memorable experience.
Listed below are a few of the attractions the island has to offer. Please vist the Isle of Barra website for more detailed information. Further info can also be found on the Internet Guide to Scotland website.
KEY DATES FOR 2010
Barrathon 3rd July 2010 - www.barrathon.org.uk
Barra Fest 30th - 31st July 2010 - http://www.barrafest.co.uk/
Angling
Barra offers excellent angling opportunities for both loch fishing and sea angling.
Archaeology
Barra offers a wealth of archaeology covering at least 6000 years of human settlement from Brochs and tombs to standing stones.
Beaches
Barra is renowned for its beautiful and white sandy beaches and you will be spoilt for choice!
Boat Trips
The most popular trip is to the magical deserted island of Mingulay where colonies of puffins can be found- see links page
Cycling
Barra's quiet roads are great for cycling, cycle hire is available in Castlebay.
Film
Barra' has appeared regularly in film. The
island has featured in pictures such as: Whisky Galore, Tropic of Sheep
(Winner: Berlin Film Festival) and Visit Scotland's A Perfect Day.
There is also talk that Herges Tintin adventure 'The black Island' may
be filmed on Barra, where the story is set.
Golf
Barra's nine hole golf course is the most westerly course in the UK and offers fantastic views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Heritage & History
The Heritage Centre in
Castlebay has exhibits, photos and records that show past island life.
Amongst the many sites to visit, Kisimul Castle and the Boldnabodach
deserted village are well worth a look.
Kayaking
Guided trips around the coast are available - see links for further information.
Swimming
An indoor heated pool at Castlebay School is open to the public.
Walks
Spectacular coastal and hillside scenery
make Barra ideal walking country. There are a few designated paths, but
you are free to walk over most of the island without hindrance. The
Isle of Barra Beach Hotel can arrange afternoon guided walks for you,
just ask at reception for further details.
Wildlife Hebrides - 1000 sepcies of wildflower
Fauna
and flora are in abundance in Barra...seals, otters, dolphins, basking
sharks, porpoise, corncrakes, sea eagles, golden eagles, buzzards,
merlins, gannets, fulmars, terns and Eriskay ponies can all be seen on
the island.
PowerKiting
Based on the island, Barra Power Kiting is a thrill of a lifetime. See Links for further information.
Hebridean Toffee & Gift - Located in Castlebay
Isle of Barra Beach Hotel - Selling locally handmade crafts postcards and gifts
