Ulabhal Hill: Majestic Summit of Harris
Discover the rugged beauty and panoramic vistas atop Ulabhal Hill, a scenic gem on the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
Ulabhal Hill rises prominently on the Isle of Harris, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Outer Hebrides' rugged landscapes. This scenic point is a favored destination for hikers and nature lovers seeking dramatic ridges, wild terrain, and a tranquil escape into Scotland's mountainous heart. Its rocky summit rewards visitors with sweeping vistas over Harris’s moorlands, lochs, and distant sea horizons.
A brief summary to Ulabhal Hill
- Isle of Harris, Harris, HS3 3DL, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and weather-appropriate clothing due to rocky and sometimes boggy terrain.
- Start early in the day to allow ample time for the full ridge walk including Ulabhal, Oireabhal, and Cleiseabhal summits.
- Bring a map and compass or GPS device as the trail can be challenging to navigate in poor visibility.
- Check local weather forecasts before setting out; conditions can change rapidly in the Outer Hebrides.
- Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles to preserve the hill’s pristine condition.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus and Taxi
From Tarbert, the main village on Harris, take a local bus or taxi service to the nearest accessible point for Ulabhal Hill. The ride typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on exact drop-off. Taxi fares range from £15 to £25. Bus services may be limited seasonally, so check schedules in advance.
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Car Rental
Renting a car in Tarbert allows flexible access to Ulabhal Hill’s trailheads. The drive to the base area takes approximately 20 minutes on rural roads. Parking is informal and limited near the trail start. Car rental prices start around £40 per day. Suitable for visitors comfortable driving on single-track roads.
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Walking Approach
For adventurous walkers, a longer hike from Tarbert to Ulabhal Hill is possible, taking 3 to 4 hours over varied terrain. This route requires good fitness and navigation skills. The path crosses moorland and minor roads, with limited facilities en route.
Ulabhal Hill location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ulabhal Hill
The Natural Majesty of Ulabhal Hill
Ulabhal Hill stands as one of the striking summits on the Isle of Harris, part of the Outer Hebrides archipelago in Scotland. It is renowned for its rugged, rocky terrain and commanding elevation that provides stunning views across the island’s wild landscapes. The hill forms part of a dramatic ridge walk that includes nearby peaks such as Oireabhal and Cleiseabhal, making it a highlight for walkers who seek both challenge and natural beauty.Geographical Context and Landscape Features
Located in the northern mountainous region of Harris, Ulabhal Hill is surrounded by a tapestry of moorlands, lochs, and coastal panoramas. The Isle of Harris itself is the southern, more mountainous portion of the larger Lewis and Harris island, known for its diverse terrain ranging from white sandy beaches to steep hills. Ulabhal’s summit offers expansive views that capture the ruggedness of the Outer Hebrides, including glimpses of distant sea horizons and the intricate coastline.Walking Routes and Terrain Challenges
The ascent to Ulabhal is part of a longer ridge walk that spans approximately 15 kilometers, encompassing rough and rocky paths with some boggy sections on the descent. This route is suited for experienced hikers prepared for demanding terrain and variable weather conditions. The trail rewards climbers with a profound sense of remoteness and connection to the Hebridean wilderness, making it a memorable outdoor adventure.Flora, Fauna, and Environmental Significance
The hill and its surroundings support a range of Hebridean wildlife and plant species adapted to the harsh, exposed conditions. Birdlife, including raptors, may be spotted soaring above the ridge, while the moorlands are dotted with hardy heather and grasses. The area is valued for its natural habitat and contributes to the ecological diversity of Harris.Cultural and Historical Resonance
While Ulabhal Hill is primarily celebrated for its natural attributes, it also forms part of the cultural landscape of Harris, an island rich in Gaelic heritage and history. The rugged hills have long shaped local life, with traditional crofting and fishing communities inhabiting the valleys below. The hill’s Gaelic name reflects the deep-rooted linguistic and cultural identity of the Outer Hebrides.Visitor Experience and Seasonal Considerations
Visitors to Ulabhal Hill can expect a serene and scenic experience, especially outside peak tourist seasons. The weather can be changeable, with clear skies offering spectacular visibility and mist adding a mystical atmosphere. Proper preparation is essential for safety and enjoyment, as the terrain is challenging and remote. The hill is a perfect destination for those seeking solitude, scenic photography, and an immersive nature escape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Harris House
13.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
16.6 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Visit Outer Hebrides
18.0 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
23.0 km
A historic white lighthouse on the wild northern tip of the Isle of Scalpay, offering sweeping sea views and a taste of remote Hebridean life.
Temple Harris
23.0 km
A modern café and deli in Northton, Isle of Harris, serving great coffee, soups and local produce with stunning sea views across the bay.
Sound of Harris
29.3 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
historic scotland
44.1 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Rubha Hunish
47.7 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
50.0 km
A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.
Old Ruins
52.2 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Ardmore Arches
52.5 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
63.2 km
Explore the stunning natural beauty and historic charm of Neist Point Lighthouse on the Isle of Skye, a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
64.0 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Neist Point Lighthouse
64.0 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
The Brother's Point
65.3 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Muladal Hill
1.5 km
A rugged 454m summit on North Harris offering wild landscapes, panoramic views, and a challenging hiking adventure.
North Harris Eagle Observatory
2.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and rare golden eagle sightings in the wild heart of North Harris on the Isle of Harris.
Harris
3.5 km
Discover Harris, a wild Scottish island of stunning beaches, Gaelic culture, and timeless natural beauty in the Outer Hebrides.
Power Station Walk
4.7 km
Explore the scenic 6.6 km Power Station Walk on the Isle of Harris, blending coastal beauty with historic maritime heritage.
North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park
5.1 km
Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate
5.2 km
A grand 19th-century baronial castle on the Isle of Harris, offering exclusive-use luxury, world-class fishing, stalking, and breathtaking Hebridean scenery.
Loch Langhabat Viewpoint
7.1 km
Experience the rugged beauty and tranquil vistas of Loch Langhabat from this serene Isle of Harris viewpoint.
Cravadale
7.1 km
Discover Cravadale’s wild coastal beauty and serene beaches on the Isle of Harris, a tranquil haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)
8.5 km
Explore the haunting ruins of a 20th‑century whaling station on Harris’s wild west coast, where concrete tanks, rusted machinery, and whale bones tell a powerful story of industry and isolation.
Huisinis Gateway
9.3 km
Gateway to the wild machair and serene beaches of Huisinis, offering essential facilities and sustainable visitor management on the Isle of Harris.
Traigh Mheilein
9.3 km
Discover the secluded turquoise waters and white sands of Traigh Mheilein, a tranquil Hebridean beach framed by rugged cliffs and panoramic island views.
Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom
9.9 km
Discover evocative Hebridean photography and homemade delights with stunning views at Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom on the Isle of Harris.
Ardvourlie Woodland
10.0 km
Discover native woodland and stunning 270° views over Loch Seaforth at Ardvourlie Woodland Observatory on the Isle of Harris.
Traigh Rosamol
11.4 km
Discover the tranquil white sands and sweeping coastal views of Traigh Rosamol, a serene beach gem on Scotland’s Isle of Harris.
Luskentyre Beach
11.5 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Essential places to dine
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
4.9 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Harris Hotel
12.9 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
13.4 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Hotel Hebrides
13.4 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Flavour
13.6 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
15.6 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
18.8 km
A welcoming cultural hub on the Isle of Harris offering hearty local fare, lively ceilidhs, and vibrant community spirit in a scenic coastal setting.
Òran na Mara
19.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
North Harbour Bistro
19.3 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Scarista House
19.8 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Loch Erisort Hotel
21.2 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Uig Sands Restaurant
22.6 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Lingay House
25.3 km
Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.
Butty Bus
25.8 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
25.8 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Luskentyre Beach Hut
12.1 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
13.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
13.3 km
A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.
Akrams General Store
13.3 km
Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.
John Morrisons Newsagents
13.3 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Tarbert charity shop
13.3 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
Essence of Harris
13.4 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
13.6 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Woven & Wild
18.0 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Harris with Love
18.5 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
18.6 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
David's sausages
19.0 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
23.6 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
24.8 km
Discover artisanal mustards crafted with passion and natural ingredients at the iconic Hebridean Mustard hut in Leverburgh, Isle of Harris.
Harris Community Shop (An Clachan)
25.4 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
9.3 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
25.1 km
A cozy pub and café in Leverburgh offering local ales, hearty meals, and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Harris.
Isle of Harris Brewery
25.8 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
THE HARBOUR BAR
39.8 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
The Criterion Bar
39.9 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
39.9 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
40.0 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Artizan
40.1 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
40.2 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Westford Inn
54.5 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Rip
54.9 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
The Ferry Inn
56.4 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
The Stein Inn
57.4 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
Old Barn Bar
65.5 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
65.5 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Scaladale Centre
10.1 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Number 5
18.4 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
77.5 km
Experience the vibrant social heartbeat of Portree at Skye Camanachd Social Club, where tradition meets lively nightlife on the Isle of Skye.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Adventurous
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
