The Isles of Barra and Vatersay are two gems in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, and they have a unique, remote charm that makes them unforgettable. Barra, the larger of the two, is often called the “gateway to the Hebrides,” and it’s famous for having the only beach runway in the world where scheduled flights land directly on the sands at Traigh Mhor Beach. Watching a plane land on the beach is something you just have to see!

Barra is packed with character. It has small villages, friendly locals, and scenic roads that loop around the island, offering amazing views of beaches, hills, and moorland. You can explore the rugged beauty of Kisimul Castle, known as the “Castle in the Sea” because it sits on a small rocky island just off the shore of Castlebay. The castle has been the ancestral home of Clan MacNeil for centuries and gives you a real taste of Scottish history and clan culture.

Vatersay, connected to Barra by a causeway, feels even more tucked away. It’s known for its wild, unspoiled landscapes and beautiful beaches, especially Vatersay Bay and West Bay, with their powdery sands and clear turquoise waters. The island’s natural beauty and its peacefulness make it a perfect spot for a quiet walk or a beach picnic. Vatersay is also where you’ll find a poignant memorial to a WWII Catalina flying boat that crashed on the island.

Both Barra and Vatersay are havens for wildlife, with chances to spot seals, seabirds, and maybe even dolphins. It’s a place for slowing down, enjoying the scenery, and taking in the Hebridean way of life.