The Scaladale Centre: Outdoor Adventure and Hostel on Isle of Harris

A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.

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The Scaladale Centre

The Scaladale Centre is a fully equipped residential outdoor centre and hostel located on the Isle of Harris, Scotland. Offering dormitory-style accommodation for up to 28 guests year-round, it serves as a base for walking, sea kayaking, mountain biking, and coasteering. The centre prioritizes school and youth groups during peak months and provides exclusive hire options. Facilities include showers, a kitchen, social areas, and outdoor seating, all set amidst the stunning North Harris hills and close to mountains, rivers, and sea.

A brief summary to The Scaladale Centre

Isle of Harris, Aird a' Mhulaidh, HS3 3AB, GB
+441859502502
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Book well in advance during July and August as the hostel fills quickly, especially for school and youth groups.
Prepare for self-catering with the fully equipped kitchen and consider bringing your own linen or renting it on-site.
Take advantage of the wide range of outdoor activities available from April to October, including coasteering and mountain biking.
Note that public transport stops at the centre but does not operate on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
Explore the surrounding North Harris hills and keep an eye out for local wildlife like golden eagles and red deer.

The Scaladale Centre location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Scaladale Centre

A Hub for Outdoor Enthusiasts in the Outer Hebrides

Nestled at the foot of the North Harris mountains on the Isle of Harris, the Scaladale Centre is a dedicated outdoor activity and residential centre. It provides a unique gateway to one of the UK’s most spectacular natural environments, with access to rugged hills, rivers, and the sea. The centre’s location offers breathtaking views over Loch Seaforth and the surrounding unspoiled landscape, making it an ideal base for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Accommodation Designed for Groups and Individuals

The Scaladale Centre features dormitory-style hostel accommodation with 28 beds available year-round. It caters to individuals, walking groups, and especially school and youth groups, which have priority during May, June, and September. The hostel offers a mix of en-suite and shared bathroom dorms, with comfortable bunk beds and heated spaces. Guests can enjoy the fully equipped kitchen, laundry and drying facilities, and a welcoming social common area with stunning views. Outdoor amenities include seating areas and a barbecue space, enhancing the communal experience.

Adventure Activities Throughout the Year

The centre is renowned for its extensive outdoor activity programme tailored to all skill levels. In the summer months, visitors can engage in coasteering, gorge scrambling, rock climbing, mountain biking, sea kayaking, kayak fishing, archery, and shore fishing. Winter offerings include bushcraft skills, ice skating, scavenger hunts, and team-building exercises. Guided expeditions and camping experiences are also available, focusing on personal development and environmental awareness. The centre’s experienced instructors provide all necessary gear and expert guidance.

Community and Environmental Engagement

Operated by the Lewis & Harris Youth Clubs Association, the Scaladale Centre emphasizes youth development and outdoor education. It adheres to strict child protection policies and fosters a safe, inclusive environment. The centre promotes sustainable practices and encourages visitors to respect the fragile Hebridean ecosystem. Wildlife such as golden eagles, red deer, mountain hares, and diverse bird species can often be spotted in the surrounding hills, enriching the visitor experience.

Practical Amenities and Visitor Support

Guests benefit from modern conveniences including free Wi-Fi, abundant parking, optional linen hire, and a hairdryer. The centre also offers advice and support to help visitors explore the local area safely and enjoyably. While there are no shops within 20 miles open on Sundays, the centre’s self-catering facilities and communal atmosphere provide comfort and convenience. Public transport stops nearby, though services do not run on Sundays, so planning ahead is advised.

A Year-Round Destination for Adventure and Learning

Whether visiting for a short stay or a longer residential programme, the Scaladale Centre offers a rich blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. Its combination of comfortable accommodation, expert-led activities, and spectacular surroundings make it a standout destination on the Isle of Harris for groups and solo travelers seeking an authentic Hebridean outdoor experience.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Harris House

10.8 km

Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.

Eilean Glas Lighthouse

16.9 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.

Pairc an t-Srath Guest House

21.4 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

27.9 km

Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.

Temple Harris

28.3 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

34.5 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

40.5 km

Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.

Rubha Hunish

40.9 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.

Old Ruins

45.2 km

Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.

Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn

47.5 km

A windswept stone cairn on Skye’s east coast, honoring the legacy of Clan MacLeod and their deep roots in the Hebrides.

Ardmore Arches

50.3 km

Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.

The Brother's Point

58.5 km

Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Dunvegan Castle & Gardens

61.6 km

Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.

Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint

62.7 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.

Neist Point Lighthouse

63.6 km

Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.

Unmissable attractions to see

View Point

2.6 km

Tranquil sea loch vistas and rugged coastal beauty await at Loch Seaforth View Point on the Isle of Lewis.

Loch Langhabat Viewpoint

3.3 km

Experience the rugged beauty and tranquil vistas of Loch Langhabat from this serene Isle of Harris viewpoint.

Harris

6.6 km

Discover Harris, a wild Scottish island of stunning beaches, Gaelic culture, and timeless natural beauty in the Outer Hebrides.

Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)

8.7 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.

Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)

North Harris Eagle Observatory

8.8 km

Experience breathtaking views and rare golden eagle sightings in the wild heart of North Harris on the Isle of Harris.

Bonnie Prince Charlie Monument

9.5 km

Historic monument marking Bonnie Prince Charlie’s 1746 landing on the Isle of Lewis, symbolizing loyalty and the Jacobite legacy.

North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park

9.7 km

Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.

Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom

10.0 km

Discover evocative Hebridean photography and homemade delights with stunning views at Hebscape Gallery & Tearoom on the Isle of Harris.

Ulabhal Hill

10.1 km

Discover the rugged beauty and panoramic vistas atop Ulabhal Hill, a scenic gem on the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.

Black Lab gallery

10.7 km

Discover authentic Scottish Highland art and expert framing services at Black Lab Gallery in West Tarbert, Isle of Harris.

Muladal Hill

10.8 km

A rugged 454m summit on North Harris offering wild landscapes, panoramic views, and a challenging hiking adventure.

A D Munro

11.0 km

A D Munro is Tarbert’s essential supermarket, blending local tradition with a trusted honesty system on the Isle of Harris.

Loomshed Deli and Coffee Shop

11.0 km

Cozy deli and coffee shop in Tarbert offering fresh local fare, vegan options, and artisan beers on the Isle of Harris.

War Memorial

11.1 km

A solemn castle-like monument in Tarbert honoring Isle of Harris heroes from the World Wars, standing proudly on Main Street as a beacon of remembrance.

Isle of Harris Distillery

11.1 km

Discover the heart and heritage of the Outer Hebrides through the award-winning spirits and warm hospitality of Isle of Harris Distillery.

Essential places to dine

Flavour

10.7 km

Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.

Harris Hotel

11.0 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

11.1 km

A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.

Hotel Hebrides

11.1 km

Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.

Loch Erisort Hotel

12.9 km

A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.

Amhuinnsuidhe Castle

14.0 km

Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.

North Harbour Bistro

14.0 km

Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.

Bays Of Harris Community Centre

18.7 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.

Talla na Mara Restaurant

20.6 km

Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.

Òran na Mara

24.4 km

Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.

Scarista House

25.1 km

Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.

Uig Sands Restaurant

26.5 km

Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.

Lingay House

29.0 km

Experience warm hospitality, modern comfort, and stunning loch views at Lingay House, a charming B&B and restaurant on the Isle of Harris.

Doune Braes Hotel

29.5 km

Traditional 3-star guest house on the Isle of Lewis offering homely comfort, local cuisine, and serene Hebridean landscapes.

Butty Bus

29.7 km

A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris

10.6 km

Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.

Tarbert charity shop

11.0 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

11.0 km

Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.

Blamire at Harris

11.0 km

A split-level gift shop in Tarbert showcasing handcrafted ceramics, original oil paintings, and authentic souvenirs from the Isle of Harris.

John Morrisons Newsagents

11.0 km

A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.

Akrams General Store

11.0 km

Akrams General Store offers authentic local goods and essentials in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris, blending convenience with Hebridean charm.

Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop

11.1 km

Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.

Harris with Love

12.9 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

15.9 km

Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.

Luskentyre Beach Hut

16.4 km

A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.

David's sausages

17.6 km

Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.

LT Crafts

21.1 km

Discover unique craft supplies and inspiring novelty items in the heart of the Scottish Highlands at LT Crafts.

Garynahine Harris Tweed

21.7 km

Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship in the tranquil village of Garynahine, Isle of Lewis, where tradition and heritage weave together.

Woven & Wild

22.9 km

Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.

The Weaving Shed

24.9 km

Discover authentic Hebridean tweed weaving and handcrafted artistry in a serene Isle of Lewis crofting village.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant

9.5 km

A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.

The Bothy

29.1 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

29.7 km

Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.

THE HARBOUR BAR

32.2 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

32.3 km

A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.

Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank

32.3 km

Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.

McNeills

32.3 km

Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.

Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club

32.4 km

A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.

Artizan

32.5 km

Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.

The Rip

47.8 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

50.9 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

54.5 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

60.1 km

Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.

Cross Inn

60.1 km

A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.

Westford Inn

60.4 km

A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots