Cravadale: Remote Coastal Beauty on the Isle of Harris
Discover the secluded coastal charm and rugged natural beauty of Cravadale, a tranquil gem on the Isle of Harris.
Cravadale is a secluded scenic point on the Isle of Harris, known for its rugged coastline, tranquil beaches, and dramatic natural landscapes. Accessible via a moderate 5-mile walk or a scenic drive along the B887, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the Outer Hebrides’ wild machair, sea cliffs, and a solitary bothy. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers seeking solitude and unspoiled beauty.
A brief summary to Cravadale
- Harris, B887, Isle of Harris, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven, rocky paths if taking the walking route from Huisinish.
- Bring water and snacks as there are no facilities at Cravadale or along the walk.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as coastal winds and rain can make the terrain challenging.
- Respect the fragile machair ecosystem by staying on marked paths and avoiding trampling vegetation.
- Consider visiting nearby landmarks like Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate or Muladal Hill to enrich your trip.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Drive from Tarbert on the Isle of Harris via the B887 towards Scalpay and Rodel. The scenic route takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Parking is available near Cravadale but limited, so arrive early during peak seasons. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
From Huisinish, embark on a 5-mile moderate walk to Cravadale along a rugged path known as the Stairmair. The hike takes 3-4 hours round trip, with some steep and uneven sections. Suitable for moderately fit walkers; no facilities en route.
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Public Transport + Walking
Take a bus from Tarbert to Huisinish, which runs a few times weekly and requires advance planning. From Huisinish, walk 5 miles to Cravadale on a rugged trail. Bus fares range around £5-£10. Service frequency is limited and seasonal.
Cravadale location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cravadale
Untouched Coastal Wilderness
Cravadale is a remote and tranquil spot on the Isle of Harris, nestled amidst the Outer Hebrides’ wild landscapes. Its coastline is marked by rugged cliffs and a deserted golden beach known locally as Traigh Crabhadail. The area remains largely untouched by development, offering a pristine environment where visitors can experience the raw beauty of the Scottish islands. The machair plains nearby add a unique ecological dimension, with their rich flora and traditional crofting heritage.A Walk Through Diverse Terrain
Reaching Cravadale typically involves a 5-mile walk from the small settlement of Huisinish, following a rocky and sometimes steep path called the Stairmair. This route traverses a variety of terrains including moorland, shoreline, and boggy patches, demanding moderate fitness and sure-footedness. Along the way, walkers pass by Loch na Cleabhaigh and an isolated cottage, enhancing the sense of solitude and connection with nature.Historic and Cultural Echoes
The surroundings of Cravadale are steeped in history, with nearby landmarks such as Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate reflecting the region’s rich heritage. The bothy at Cravadale itself is a symbol of the island’s traditional way of life, offering shelter in an otherwise wild setting. The area’s Gaelic place names and crofting culture provide a glimpse into the enduring human relationship with this rugged landscape.Wildlife and Natural Highlights
The natural environment around Cravadale supports diverse wildlife, including seabirds and Highland cattle that roam the hills. The coastal waters and machair support a variety of plant species, making it a rewarding spot for nature observation and photography. The quiet atmosphere encourages mindfulness and a deep appreciation of the island’s ecological richness.Scenic Drives and Nearby Attractions
For those arriving by car, the scenic drive along the B887 from Tarbert offers spectacular views of Harris’s landscapes. Nearby attractions include Muladal Hill for panoramic vistas, the North Harris Eagle Observatory for wildlife enthusiasts, and Loch Langhabat Viewpoint. These sites complement a visit to Cravadale, enriching the experience of Harris’s diverse natural beauty.Preserving a Hidden Gem
Cravadale remains a hidden gem due to its remote location and limited accessibility. Efforts to preserve its natural state are crucial to maintaining the tranquility and ecological integrity of the area. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment by following Leave No Trace principles and appreciating the solitude that makes Cravadale a special destination on the Isle of Harris.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Visit Outer Hebrides
12.1 km
Your essential gateway to exploring the wild beauty and rich Gaelic culture of Scotland’s Outer Hebrides islands.
Pairc an t-Srath Guest House
18.2 km
Charming guest house on Isle of Harris with stunning sea views, warm hospitality, and delicious home-cooked meals near beautiful beaches.
Harris House
19.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of care and natural beauty at Harris House in the enchanting Isle of Harris.
Temple Harris
23.3 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
29.2 km
A dramatic eight-mile maritime passage through Scotland's remote Outer Hebrides, where tidal waters and rocky islands create an unforgettable crossing.
Eilean Glas Lighthouse
29.5 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.
historic scotland
46.2 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Rubha Hunish
54.1 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
54.4 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
56.6 km
Discover the rugged beauty of Ardmore Arches, striking natural sea arches on Skye’s wild Waternish Peninsula.
Old Ruins
58.6 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Neist Point Cliff Lighthouse Viewpoint
66.3 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
67.0 km
Iconic lighthouse on Skye’s westernmost point, framed by dramatic cliffs and rich wildlife, perfect for stunning coastal views and serene walks.
Dunvegan Castle & Gardens
68.1 km
Explore the historic Dunvegan Castle & Gardens on the Isle of Skye, where rich heritage meets stunning natural beauty.
Dun Osdale
70.5 km
Discover Dun Osdale, an ancient Iron Age fort on Skye where history meets faerie legend amidst rugged coastal beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Traigh Mheilein
2.2 km
Discover the secluded turquoise waters and white sands of Traigh Mheilein, a tranquil Hebridean beach framed by rugged cliffs and panoramic island views.
Huisinis Gateway
2.8 km
Gateway to the wild machair and serene beaches of Huisinis, offering essential facilities and sustainable visitor management on the Isle of Harris.
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle Estate
5.7 km
A grand 19th-century baronial castle on the Isle of Harris, offering exclusive-use luxury, world-class fishing, stalking, and breathtaking Hebridean scenery.
Muladal Hill
6.4 km
A rugged 454m summit on North Harris offering wild landscapes, panoramic views, and a challenging hiking adventure.
Power Station Walk
6.6 km
Explore the scenic 6.6 km Power Station Walk on the Isle of Harris, blending coastal beauty with historic maritime heritage.
Ulabhal Hill
7.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty and panoramic vistas atop Ulabhal Hill, a scenic gem on the Isle of Harris in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides.
North Harris Eagle Observatory
9.4 km
Experience breathtaking views and rare golden eagle sightings in the wild heart of North Harris on the Isle of Harris.
Harris
10.6 km
Discover Harris, a wild Scottish island of stunning beaches, Gaelic culture, and timeless natural beauty in the Outer Hebrides.
North Harris Eagle Observatory Car Park
10.9 km
Starting point for a scenic walk to a timber-framed hide offering iconic golden eagle views in the wild North Harris hills.
Loch Langhabat Viewpoint
13.9 km
Experience the rugged beauty and tranquil vistas of Loch Langhabat from this serene Isle of Harris viewpoint.
Traigh Rosamol
14.1 km
Discover the tranquil white sands and sweeping coastal views of Traigh Rosamol, a serene beach gem on Scotland’s Isle of Harris.
Gasker Lighthouse
14.3 km
Discover the remote Gasker Lighthouse, a solitary beacon amidst the wild beauty and rich wildlife of the Outer Hebrides’ rugged coast.
Luskentyre Beach
14.4 km
A vast, white-sand beach with turquoise waters and dramatic views across the Sound of Taransay on the Isle of Harris.
Bunavoneader Whaling Station (Bun Abhainn Eadarra)
14.7 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.
Luskentyre Harris Tweed Co
14.9 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed handwoven in the remote village of Luskentyre, where tradition and craftsmanship meet rugged island beauty.
Essential places to dine
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
6.5 km
Exclusive 19th-century Scottish Baronial castle on Harris offering luxury stays, world-class fishing, and breathtaking Hebridean views.
Talla na Mara Restaurant
17.2 km
Community-focused dining with stunning coastal views and fresh, inclusive menus on the Isle of Harris.
Harris Hotel
18.9 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
19.4 km
A refined waterfront dining experience in Tarbert, offering fresh Hebridean seafood and warm hospitality with stunning harbour views.
Hotel Hebrides
19.4 km
Experience comfort and local charm at Hotel Hebrides in Tarbert—your gateway to exploring the breathtaking Isle of Harris.
Flavour
19.8 km
Discover an immersive chef’s table experience with locally foraged fine dining in the heart of the Isle of Harris.
Òran na Mara
19.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of traditional Hebridean charm and modern luxury with breathtaking views over Scarista beach on the Isle of Harris.
Uig Sands Restaurant
20.5 km
Experience exquisite local seafood and stunning coastal views at Uig Sands Restaurant, a stylish gem on the Isle of Lewis.
Scarista House
20.5 km
Historic Georgian elegance meets stunning Atlantic views in this remote boutique hotel on the Isle of Harris.
Bays Of Harris Community Centre
23.2 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.
North Harbour Bistro
25.7 km
Exquisite seafood dining with stunning harbour views and warm island hospitality on the Isle of Scalpay.
Lingay House
26.7 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
27.0 km
A cozy, no-nonsense café at Leverburgh ferry terminal serving fresh local fish and chips with charming harbor views.
Loch Erisort Hotel
27.0 km
A welcoming Hebridean inn with spacious rooms, stunning loch views, and hearty local cuisine on the tranquil Isle of Lewis.
The Anchorage Restaurant, Cafe & Bar
27.0 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
15.0 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
19.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed craftsmanship and timeless island heritage in the heart of Tarbert, Isle of Harris.
Blamire at Harris
19.3 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
19.3 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
19.3 km
A welcoming local hub in Tarbert offering essentials and island charm on the Isle of Harris.
Woven & Wild
19.3 km
Discover authentic, sustainable Hebridean homewares crafted with care in Scarista, Isle of Harris.
Tarbert charity shop
19.4 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
19.4 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
19.9 km
Discover authentic Harris crafts and unique gifts at The Wee Croft Shop in Tarbert, a charming local treasure celebrating island heritage.
David's sausages
24.1 km
Discover handcrafted local sausages steeped in Isle of Harris tradition, crafted for food lovers seeking authentic island flavors.
Taobh Tuath Tweeds
24.1 km
Discover authentic Harris Tweed weaving and island heritage at Taobh Tuath Tweeds in Northton, Isle of Harris.
Harris Tweed and Knitwear
24.2 km
Authentic handwoven Harris Tweed products crafted in the Outer Hebrides, blending heritage, quality, and island tradition.
Harris with Love
25.0 km
Discover authentic Hebridean artistry and handcrafted treasures at Harris with Love, a charming boutique in Scalpay on the Isle of Harris.
The Hebridean Mustard Company
25.8 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)
26.7 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
15.3 km
A tranquil Hebridean escape offering cozy rooms, exquisite local cuisine, and stunning mountain and sea views on the Isle of Harris.
The Bothy
26.3 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
27.0 km
Crafting island-brewed beers and fresh Hebridean fare in a lively waterfront taproom on the Isle of Harris.
THE HARBOUR BAR
44.7 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
44.7 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
44.8 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
McNeills
44.8 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Artizan
44.9 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
45.1 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
52.9 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
59.1 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 Stein Inn
61.9 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
62.1 km
A stylish 19th-century inn in Uig offering cozy rooms, exceptional local cuisine, and stunning views over Skye’s northern bay.
Old Barn Bar
68.4 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
68.4 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
17.1 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
24.0 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
83.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- 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
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- 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
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly