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sand castle on beach
Traigh Mhor Beach on the Isle of Barra is one of the most unique beaches in the world because it doubles as a landing strip for planes!

This wide, sandy beach on the northern tip of Barra is the only airport in the world where scheduled flights actually touch down on the sand. It’s an unforgettable experience to watch a plane glide down and land on the beach, timing itself with the tides because the “runway” disappears underwater at high tide.

Apart from its role as an airport, Traigh Mhor is simply a beautiful place to visit. With its golden sands and clear, turquoise waters, it looks almost tropical on a sunny day, but it has that raw, wild edge unique to the Hebrides. The beach is also surrounded by dunes and machair, a type of coastal grassland that bursts with wildflowers in the summer, making it a great spot for a beach walk or a picnic.

When flights aren’t coming in, Traigh Mhor is peaceful and perfect for a wander or to catch views of Barra’s rugged coastline. Plus, it’s a great place for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot seabirds, seals, and even the occasional otter along the shore. For anyone visiting Barra, Traigh Mhor is a must-see—it’s a beach with character, charm, and a touch of adventure!

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