John's Bunkhouse

About

Johns Bunkhouse, which opened in 2018, is located right at the heart of the Outer Hebrides. It is a purpose-built, stylish hostel.  Built on the site of a traditional Hebridean black house, it combines the charm of the original building with the comfort of a modern hostel.

The bunkhouse is a 10-minute walk to the Harris ferry, the causeway to North Uist and the local shop and bistro. There is a bus stop at the top of the road with daily buses to Lochmaddy, Benbecula and South Uist. It is an ideal stopping off point for those doing the Hebridean Way or for people staying longer, wanting to explore the Uists and Harris. We are open all year round as each season offers a new experience. In spring and summer there are beach and water activities, the long hours of daylight and local festivals. In autumn and winter, we provide a cosy retreat for those wanting to experience the extremes of the Hebridean winter - crisp, still sunny days, and exhilarating stormy weather.

The bunkhouse accommodates 8 people. There is a large bunk room for 4 with an ensuite bathroom, and 2 smaller bunkrooms sharing a large, wheelchair accessible shower room. We welcome individual travellers, families, and groups of friends.

Our well-equipped kitchen/ living -room has a heart- warming, peat -burning stove. There is also a drying room and bike shed. John’s Bunkhouse is a low energy hostel. Our underfloor heating is provided by a heat pump. We have good recycling facilities and a hot composting bin for food waste.

The hostel looks on to a tidal beach which is perfect for wild swimming, foraging and kitesurfing. With its resident colony of waders, it is a great place to birdwatch.  Starting at the bunkhouse a walk around the whole island is easily achieved in a few hours. Then you can discover Berneray’s long sandy beaches, its abundance of wild flowers and from its hills see the islands of the Sound of Harris and in the distance, St.Kilda.