With beaches that could easily compete with the likes of the Caribbean, and the world’s only airport that vanishes in high tide – you simply must add Barra to your bucket list
With white sandy beaches and a runway that disappears at high tide, this UK seaside resort really is like no other. Barra is the most southern of the inhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides, located just off the west coast of mainland Scotland.
It has a population of just 1,174 and is only 58.75 km² (around 26 times smaller than London) – and yet is filled with natural beauty, rich history, and even boasts the most westerly golf course in the UK. While tourism stats on the island are hard to substantiate, due to holidaymakers travelling around the Hebrides, thousands flock to the ‘wee slice of paradise’ every single year. Barra is perhaps most famous for its pristine beaches (particularly the picturesque shore of Tangasdale) and vivid blue waters, which could easily fool you into thinking you’d somehow landed in the Caribbean. The only spoiler would be the temperature, with July and August only averaging out at a high of 15C.
However, it’s also home to the world’s only airport that sometimes vanishes beneath the waves. So, if you’re not keen on taking the ferry from Oban over the choppy waters – you can fly from Glasgow and land straight on the beach at Cockle Strand in between tides.
“Since the airport was built in 1978, passenger numbers have almost doubled from around 7,500 in the late 70s to about 14,800 pre Covid-19,” the airport’s website states. “The airport provides lifeline services to Barra, while also being a popular visitor attraction. The team at the airport feel privileged to be part of the unique experience that is Barra Airport.”
However you arrive in Barra, you’ll be in for a real treat. History buffs can take a five-minute boat trip to the medieval Kisimul Castle, aka the ‘Castle in the Sea’, which sits dramatically on a rock islet in the bay.
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“This three-storey tower house is the ancient seat of the Clan MacNeil, and gives great views from the battlements,” Visit Scotland explained. “Learn about the culture, history and language of Barra at the island’s heritage centre, Dualchas, where the two main galleries present a changing programme of local history displays, art exhibitions and cultural events.”
Accommodation in Barra itself can be hard to find. Many hotels are only open from May to September, and accept bookings the old-fashion way (by calling them up). The Isle of Barra Beach Hotel is a great option for holidaymakers, and offers stays during the summer months. Its family rooms, which all have a sea view, sleep up to four and cost £300.00 per night – with a minimum two-night stay.
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