Òran na Mara: A Stunning Coastal Retreat on the Isle of Harris
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Òran na Mara is an exquisitely designed, award-winning holiday home located on the Isle of Harris, Scotland. Overlooking the expansive Scarista beach, this contemporary, curved stone and thatch house blends traditional Hebridean architecture with modern luxury. Offering breathtaking panoramic views, bespoke furnishings, and a peaceful seaside setting, it is the perfect retreat for families, couples, or groups seeking tranquility and natural beauty in the Outer Hebrides.
A brief summary to Òran na Mara
- Oran Na Mara, 11 Scarista, Isle of Harris, HS3 3HX, GB
- +447785226669
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 168 hours
- Luxury
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Book well in advance, especially for summer weeks, as Òran na Mara is a popular and exclusive holiday home.
- Bring outdoor clothing suitable for all weather to fully enjoy the beach and walking trails around the property.
- Consider visiting in the off-season (November to February) for shorter stays and a peaceful, atmospheric experience.
- If traveling with pets, confirm dog-friendly policies and prepare for beach walks and outdoor adventures.
- Take advantage of the well-equipped kitchen to prepare meals using local produce, enhancing your island experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Òran na Mara 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 Òran na Mara
Architectural Harmony with Hebridean Landscape
Òran na Mara, meaning 'song of the sea,' is a remarkable holiday home that masterfully integrates with the natural environment of the Isle of Harris. Built with traditional stone walls and a thatched roof—techniques rooted in over 1,500 years of local heritage—the house’s curved design mimics the soft contours of the surrounding landscape. This architectural approach not only preserves the cultural identity of the Outer Hebrides but also maximizes the spectacular views of Scarista beach and the rolling hills beyond. The house’s insulation and eco-conscious construction ensure comfort in all seasons, while the peat and wood fire stove adds a cozy, authentic touch to the living space.Interior Elegance and Thoughtful Details
Inside, Òran na Mara boasts a sophisticated, contemporary interior filled with bespoke furnishings and carefully selected artefacts inspired by the island’s flora and seascapes. The open-plan living area features floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light and offer uninterrupted views of the sea. The kitchen is fully equipped with professional-grade appliances, including a Rangemaster stove and even a bread maker, reflecting the home's commitment to both luxury and homely comfort. The three bedrooms are individually themed to echo the natural surroundings—the Shoreline Room, Machair Room, and Chaipaval Room—each outfitted with premium mattresses and quality linens to ensure restful sleep.A Seaside Sanctuary for Relaxation and Exploration
Situated on one of Harris’s most beautiful beaches, Òran na Mara invites guests to unwind while soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere. The location offers direct access to a three-mile stretch of sandy beach, ideal for peaceful walks, wildlife watching, and water sports like surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The rugged natural beauty of the Outer Hebrides is at your doorstep, with numerous walking routes and opportunities to explore the island’s unique ecosystems and cultural landmarks.Family-Friendly and Pet-Welcoming Environment
The property is designed to accommodate a range of guests, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families and groups of friends. It is dog-friendly, allowing pets to enjoy the expansive outdoor spaces and nearby beach. The flexible bedroom configurations and spacious living areas make it suitable for all ages, providing a welcoming environment for children and seniors alike.Dedicated Guest Care and Local Connection
Owned by Paul and Helen Honeywell, who share a lifelong connection to Harris, the house is managed locally by their daughter Rosie, ensuring attentive and personal guest service. Guests appreciate the seamless communication and thoughtful touches, such as mid-stay refreshes and local knowledge sharing, which enhance the overall experience. The property’s story reflects a deep respect for the island’s culture and environment, making every stay a meaningful immersion in Harris’s heritage.Seasonal Availability and Booking Details
Òran na Mara is typically let by the week with Saturday changeovers during the main season, while shorter breaks are available from November to February. This scheduling allows guests to experience the island’s distinct seasonal moods—from vibrant summer days to the tranquil, atmospheric winter months. The house’s high-quality facilities and stunning location make it a sought-after retreat throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
3.0 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Temple Harris
4.0 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
10.3 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Harris House
16.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Visit Outer Hebrides
18.1 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
23.5 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.
Clan MacLeod Memorial Cairn
37.2 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
38.9 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Neist Point Lighthouse
47.6 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Old Ruins
48.0 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Dun Osdale
52.2 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Iron age broch
57.0 km
Explore a uniquely Scottish Iron Age broch perched above Portree, revealing ancient stone craftsmanship and commanding views of Skye’s dramatic landscape.
The Brother's Point
59.8 km
Explore Brother's Point on the Isle of Skye: A breathtaking coastal destination rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
St. Columba's Isle
60.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St. Columba's Isle, a historical landmark in Skye, Scotland, where spirituality meets nature.
Clachan Erisco Standing stones, Borve, Isle of Skye
63.1 km
Discover the timeless mystery of Clachan Erisco Standing Stones, where ancient history meets Skye’s wild coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bagh Steinigidh
0.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and sweeping coastal views of Bagh Steinigidh, a serene beach gem on the Isle of Harris’s wild west coast.
Small Beach
0.8 km
A serene and unspoiled coastal retreat on the Isle of Harris, perfect for peaceful beach walks and nature immersion.
Sgarasta Mhòr Beach
1.8 km
Discover the wild golden sands and Atlantic waves of Sgarasta Mhòr Beach, a breathtaking coastal escape on the Isle of Harris.
Talla na Mara Gift Shop
3.8 km
Discover authentic island crafts and community spirit at Talla na Mara Gift Shop, a cultural gem on the scenic Isle of Harris.
Salt Marsh
3.9 km
Explore the rare and tranquil salt marshes of Northton, where tidal waters weave through grassy islets beneath the towering Ceapabhal mountain on Harris.
Croft36
4.1 km
Discover the honest charm of Croft36, a cozy bakery shed on Isle of Harris serving fresh, sustainable, and locally crafted delights.
Nisabost Beach
4.3 km
Golden sands and wild Atlantic horizons on Harris's most accessible beach.
Hebrides People Visitor Centre
4.4 km
Discover the rich heritage and genealogy of the Western Isles at the Hebrides People Visitor Centre in Northton, Isle of Harris.
MacLeod´s Stone
4.6 km
Discover the towering Neolithic mystery of MacLeod's Stone on Harris, where ancient legend meets breathtaking coastal scenery.
Clach Mhic Leoid,standing stone
4.6 km
Discover the ancient mystery and breathtaking coastal beauty of Clach Mhic Leoid, a towering Neolithic standing stone on the Isle of Harris.
The temple
4.7 km
A tranquil ruin nestled in the rugged beauty of Isle of Harris, offering a quiet glimpse into the island’s historic past.
Blas Bhon Iar
4.9 km
Savor authentic local takeaway dishes with a warm welcome in scenic Horgabost on the Isle of Harris.
A.S Apothecary
6.3 km
Discover handcrafted botanicals and award-winning alcohol-free spirits at A.S Apothecary, a unique herb shop and coffee roaster in scenic Seilebost, Isle of Harris.
Borrisdale Tweed
6.8 km
Explore Borrisdale Tweed on the Isle of Harris for unique Scottish textiles and homewares, showcasing the artistry and heritage of Harris Tweed.
Fir Chlis
7.1 km
Luxury architect-designed beachhouse with panoramic views overlooking Luskentyre Beach on the Isle of Harris.
Essential places to dine
Òran na Mara
0.0 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
0.7 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
3.8 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Lingay House
6.9 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
7.1 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
7.2 km
Fresh seafood and local flavors served with stunning harbour views in a relaxed, welcoming setting on Leverburgh’s pier.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
11.5 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.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
14.7 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Harris Hotel
15.5 km
Experience authentic island charm, warm hospitality, and local flavors at Harris Hotel, your cozy retreat in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Hotel Hebrides
15.8 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Pierhouse Cafe And Restaurant
15.9 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Flavour
16.6 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
North Harbour Bistro
20.5 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Loch Erisort Hotel
37.3 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
Uig Sands Restaurant
40.3 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Woven & Wild
1.6 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
4.5 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
5.9 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)
6.9 km
A well-stocked, community-owned shop serving as the essential retail and social hub in Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris.
Luskentyre Beach Hut
8.0 km
A charming trust-based gift hut offering local crafts and refreshments with stunning views over Luskentyre Bay on the Isle of Harris.
Grannie Annie's
9.4 km
Discover the quirky charm and authentic Hebridean spirit at Grannie Annie's, a beloved gift shop on the Isle of Harris.
David's sausages
13.9 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Harris Tweed Isle Of Harris Shop
15.5 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
15.8 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
15.8 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
15.8 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Essence of Harris
15.9 km
Discover the essence of the Isle of Harris through handcrafted, sustainably made candles and homewares inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
Tarbert charity shop
15.9 km
Explore Tarbert Charity Shop, a unique thrift store on the Isle of Harris, where every purchase supports local charities and sustainability.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
16.1 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
The Wee Croft Shop - Isle of Harris
16.7 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bothy
6.4 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
7.2 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
Ardhasaig House Hotel and Restaurant
15.1 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
Westford Inn
36.0 km
A cozy Hebridean pub on North Uist offering hearty local cuisine, craft ales, and warm island hospitality in a traditional stone setting.
The Stein Inn
44.6 km
Historic pub and hotel on Skye offering fresh seafood, cozy rooms, and stunning Loch Bay views in a charming coastal village.
The Ferry Inn
48.4 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
THE HARBOUR BAR
56.6 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
56.7 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
56.7 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
56.7 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
56.8 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
Artizan
56.9 km
Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Isles Inn
68.3 km
A lively traditional pub and cozy inn in Portree, offering hearty Scottish fare, live folk music, and comfortable rooms in the heart of Isle of Skye.
West Highlands Bar
68.4 km
Cozy Highland pub in Portree offering local whiskies, Isle of Skye brews, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere year-round.
Merchant Bar
68.4 km
Experience authentic Isle of Skye hospitality with local ales, fine whiskies, and hearty Highland fare in the cozy Merchant Bar of Portree.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Number 5
15.9 km
Charming stone cottage hostel with sea views, cozy fires, kayak rentals, and warm hospitality on the scenic Isle of Harris.
The Scaladale Centre
24.4 km
A premier outdoor adventure centre and hostel on Isle of Harris, offering year-round activities and comfortable group accommodation in stunning Hebridean surroundings.
Red fox
61.2 km
Red Fox on the Isle of Lewis: Dive into a vibrant adult entertainment scene amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Skye Camanachd Social Club
67.6 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
