Harris

The east coast of the Isle of Harris (Hearadh an Ear) is a great destination for sailing in the Outer Hebrides, offering ample opportunity to explore.

Crews looking for Isle of Harris moorings and anchorages can choose from a number of great spots.

• Just north of the entrance to East Loch Tarbert is Loch Seaforth with its wild anchorages and beyond that the spectacular Shiant Islands.
• The Bays are a collection of small sea coastal indentations each with a small community offering wild anchorages on the east coast of Harris.
• Rodel is a sheltered pool offering Harris visitor moorings and there is a small hotel and restaurant close by.
• There is a pontoon in the Harris ferry port of Leverburgh and the nearby Sound of Harris gives access to the Atlantic Coast and St Kilda.

Tarbert is the main centre on the east coast of Harris and can be accessed from the East Loch (or indeed the West loch on the Atlantic Coast side by land across a short isthmus).

Sail to the East Coast of Harris in the Outer Hebrides and you will have access to the rest of the island (Lewis as well) by road or by sea. Tarbert itself boasts shopping, banking and tourist information facilities as well as a selection of Harris accommodation and eateries.

The connected island of Scalpay has an excellent community shop and cafe near to the pier, ideal for a coffee after the walk to the lighthouse.

Sailing to Harris gives access to a number of activities. Drop anchor on the east coast of Harris and you can visit spectacular isand beaches, tour Outer Hebrides archeological sites, take boat trips to St Kilda and other outlying islands, enjoy a selection of wildlife walks and even a trip to the Harris eagle observatory.

The unique island environment is an important place for wildlife and the open landscape provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching as well as spotting a number of species of Hebridean animals and plants.

The habitats range from alpine grassland on high mountain slopes to machair, sandy beaches, and deep sea lochs.

June to August is the best time to explore the machair at Huisinis. Carnivorous plants such as sundew and butterwort can be found in the bogs and rare moss species in the wet climate of the higher hills. Golden eagles, sea eagles, red deer, otters and hen harriers are just some of the regular sightings.