Isle of Harris

As part of the Outer Hebridean Islands, Harris is often described as the ‘high heart’ of the Hebrides. The community here is close knit, friendly and safe, and visitors are genuinely welcomed.

Geography

Although known as the Isle of Harris, it actually shares its landmass with Lewis, but is uniquely different. It has a diverse landscape: on the west coast there are stunning stretches of white sandy beaches with a spectacular mountainous backdrop and these beaches are a huge draw for visitors. Green grassy plains nestle behind these beaches and in summer are covered in masses of wild flowers. The east coast by comparison is a dramatic, rocky landscape that has often been described as strange and almost lunar in its appearance.

People and Culture

Tarbert is the main port and capital village of Harris and is the arrival and departure point for the main ferry terminal. It has a small population of around 500 inhabitants and it’s here the world-famous Harris Tweed started off life in around 1830. The Harris Tweed industry has always played an important role in the island’s culture, industry and history. The cloth must be woven on the islands to legally be called Harris Tweed, therefore is still produced in this region today.

Activities

Harris is a hiker’s and climber’s paradise. The northern part of the island has the most extensive and highest range of mountains in the Outer Hebrides, which are amongst the wildest in Britain. If you enjoy fishing, ask the local fishermen for the best spot to land your catch. Lewis and Harris have some of the finest salmon and trout fishing anywhere in Scotland - the best time for salmon fishing is between June and September.