Isle of Harris

We were due to leave the island today, so it was do or die for the surprise birthday photo shoot. It was no longer a surprise by this stage and it was raining consistently, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We were advised to wear sturdy walking shoes and to meet at 0700 at the Fairy Glen… intriguing! The photographer’s name was Penny and operated on the basis of payment for time with all files included. This was a nice way to do it as it meant that there were no awkward discussions or haggling at the end. She was a lovely person and helped everyone negotiate the slippery territory and the rain with smiles on our faces. Hopefully being in a good mood means good photos at the end. We were all drowned rats by the end, but it was worth it.

The children climbing up at Fairy Glen while waiting for the olds to catch up

Grandpa trying to negotiate the "fairy circle"

Getting into position...not so glamourous! Will post the final results

Next was ferry trip number two – from Uig on Skye to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris. This was a longer trip. Fortunately, the boat was more modern with plentiful toilets, charging points, comfortable seating, cafes etc so it was quite pleasant despite the visibility being essentially zero. As luck would have it, halfway through the ferry crossing…the sun came out. Darn you sun, where were you earlier in the day?!?!

We drove south from Tarbert along the west coast of Harris stopping at Temple Café for lunch. The food was simple, but enjoyable – most of us had warm tomato and basil soup with crusty bread. The highlight, however, were the cakes and scones. The scones here were the best on our trip so far. If we could combine these scones with the clotted cream from Cornwall we’d have the perfect combo.

On the Isle of Harris, we were treated to vistas which seemed like a distant memory…sandy beaches with blue skies! Throw in the green hills and black rocks and voila…spectacular harsh beauty of the outer Hebrides. 

Getting on to the ferry

Comfortable lounge seating, free wifi...kids happy!

Running free on long stretches of sandy beaches

Excited to find a jelly fish

Sun?! Is that you?!?!

Are we still in Scotland!?

Lunch stop

With a view

Hungry family!

We journeyed on towards the northern Isle of Lewis. As we headed north, the dramatic cliffs gave way to flat windswept moorlands. And on cue...the fog rolled in. Our stop tonight was the Borve House Hotel, a surprise winner! The rooms were massive, beds comfortable, staff friendly and the food in the attached restaurant decent. I would strongly suggest booking accomodation early if you do plan to visit so you have your first pick. Options are limited and they do book out in the peak season.

Trying haggis. Not bad! Maybe the whisky sauce was what made it extra tasty Bahah!!

Surf and turf with lobster. So good!