Island Intro
Beautiful Barra, lying at the south of the Outer Hebrides, is an island rich in history, with a strong traditional music scene and a runway on the beach!
Ask an Islander
We asked locals on Barra to tell us why their island is special. Here’s what Sarah from Bùth Bharraigh said:
“In winter there are lots of activities to try, and ways to get involved in community activities. This winter we made a Castlebay Christmas tree using knitted and crocheted squares from all over the world. It looked spectacular. Anyone can get involved.”
“On a rainy day come to Bùth Bharraigh. Have a coffee and catch up, do emails and get your laundry done! It’s a great community hub selling craft supplies and good books to keep you busy. Then there’s the Heritage Centre where you can learn about the island’s past too.”
“On a sunny day it’s ‘Barradise’! Going to one of our beautiful beaches is a must. Swimming in the crystal clear waters or going kayaking or snorkelling with Clearwater Paddling is a great way to enjoy Barra.”
“You can also book boat trips to uninhabited Mingulay, where you can see seabirds, basking sharks & porpoises with Mingulay boat trips & wildlife spotting.”
Spring is also a favourite time of year in Barra. “Wonderful primroses appear all over the place, the days are getting longer, and there is a real warmth in the sun. Visitors also start to return, many, now friends, who come back year after year. It’s nice to see them and there’s a definite buzz about the island. There are so many lovely beaches and hill walks on the island. It is nice getting up Heaval, the highest point on the island, and seeing the magnificent views from the top.”
Gaelic / Gàidhlig
The Gaelic name for Barra is Barraigh, or Eilean Bharraigh.
How do you say ‘castle’ in Gaelic? That would be ‘caisteal‘!
Collect your travelogue stamp!
If you have one of our paper travelogues you can collect your stamp using the brass rubbing plate located at Bùth Bharraigh in Castlebay.
Why not download the Scottish Islands Passport app to collect digital stamps!
Getting Here
CalMac Ferries operate daily sailings from Oban on the mainland to Castlebay. CalMac also sails between Eriskay and Barra several times a day.
Daily scheduled flights to Barra from Glasgow are operated by Loganair.
Explore More
Want to find out more about Barra and explore more of our amazing islands?
Download the free Scottish Islands Passport app to:
- discover your perfect island match,
- find out about the experiences each island has to offer,
- collect passport stamps for the islands you visit,
- find information on accommodation, travel and island amenities.
