Tarbert

Note that this year there businesses may have different opening times, or may be closed. Please check business websites for up to date information.

Nestled in a valley where North and South Harris meet, and set against a backdrop of rugged mountain peaks, the island’s main settlement of Tarbert serves as focal point and transport hub for the area.

Tarbert's harbour is the island’s main ferry terminal and the newlly installed marina  serves as the muster point for boat tours to the outlying Shiant islands, home to colonies of puffins and razor bills, as well as charters of travellers’ choosing. 

The settlement itself offers a wide range of facilities from tourist information Welcome Point to post office and banking as well as access to a great selection of places where visitors can while away a little bit of time. 

Take a tour of the Isle of Harris Distillery and sample some Isle of Harris gin or pop over to the Harris Tweed shop to see and purchase products of this important island industry (weaving demonstrations can be organised in advance for groups or tours), head up to Essence of Harris candles and home fragrances, or head for the Loomshed Brewery in East Tarbert and pick some tasty Hebridean craft beer.

If all the exploring has worked up an appetite, head for the Harris Distillery canteen in Tarbert, the Pierhouse at Hotel Hebrides or the Harris Hotel, where a friendly reception and a great selection of hot and cold refreshments await for all the family.

Choose a stay at the contemporary chic four-star boutique Hotel Hebrides in the heart of this harbour settlement, or opt for the nearby family run Harris Hotel which has been welcoming holidaymakers to the island for over a century.

Whether Tarbert is the first, last or simply one of many stops on your Hebridean holiday, this area offers many exciting opportunities to make great island memories.