YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTION: Crannag, isle of At , on the west coast of Lewis All the flights and flight- inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions on page 24 for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate Holidays using car/ferry travel only are protected by Early morning light over Point Peninsula, Lewis. Harris mountains in the distance. Total Payment Protection (topp) Policy cover. HISTORY AT YOUR CATCH THE BEST Please see our booking conditions on page 24 FINGERTIPS LIGHT FOR PHOTOS for more information. TRAVEL INSURANCE: Fascinating relics are close wherever you travel OFF SEASON - WITH ATOL and Topps protection does not replace in the Outer . This is history that’s up personal holiday travel insurance, which we close and personal - you can touch, feel and UP TO 25% OFF recommend to cover losses due to missed visualise the past for yourself. connections, weather interruptions or inability to There are ancient stone circles, Iron Age SUMMER PRICES take your holiday because of illness, etc. settlements, chambered burial cairns and Expert photographers generally agree that Many bank and credit card accounts include blackhouses restored to reflect the way crofters holiday insurance, so it may be worth checking there’s a special quality to the light here before really lived in the 1950s. Museums, large and before you buy elsewhere. Check in the small print and after the summer. small, impart the story of a population that has that weather delays are covered. been here for over 5,000 years. A number of our hosts have joined with us to offer a full 25% off the cost of accommodation Explore those aspects that are clearly provable (sorry, not ferries) before 30th April and from OUR ADVISORS KNOW and be enchanted by the stories that are full of 1st October. Sheer relaxation mystery and conjecture - formulating your own WHAT HOLIDAYS HERE opinions about what is real and what is legend. By taking advantage of this great offer, you could save enough to buy some large framed ARE REALLY LIKE ENJOY THE FRESH AIR prints of your 2014 holiday photos. There are All of our advisors live locally, know the islands, more details on page 19 and on our web site. All our staff actually live in the , so ON A BICYCLE To learn more, please call 0845 230 1236. our intimate knowledge of the islands means and are ready to share their expertise with you, we’re well placed to suggest places to go, things TOURING HOLIDAY to do and sights to see. to ensure you enjoy the holiday you deserve. GOING TO Our leisurely end-to-end island cycling holidays, IN 2014? WHY NOT Our advisors continually increase their local include fully equipped hybrid touring bikes, or, knowledge, to have the information you ask for. at a modest extra cost, it’s even easier with an EXTEND YOUR TRIP? eco-friendly electrically assisted bike. Whether you want to know about fitting accommodation around a trip to St. Kilda or iscover the magical, mysterious eagles, otters, corncrakes, whales, puffins or at first hand. Collect your bikes in or Barra for a If you’re sepnding a where to find the Outer Hebrides’ only Hebridean islands, an area of great dolphins, while others are content to sit on a All of our advisors live locally, know the islands, leisurely 8 night holiday, meandering around few days at the D contrast, perched right at the very deserted beach, with a good book to read. and are ready to share their expertise with you, 140 miles to the other end of the Outer Commonwealth distillery, we can help. edge of Europe - next stop, America! So much space also means those seeking a to ensure you enjoy the holiday you deserve. Hebrides - then leave the bikes and travel home. Games, you’ll Find vast tracts of moorland, some virtually already be nearly higher energy holiday need not disturb you. Every hotel, inn and guest house in this Relax and enjoy the views at close quarters, SOMETHING SPECIAL unvisited and occupied only by flora and fauna, here, so it makes sense to visit us then. They will not be disappointed, either, with brochure has been selected because we believe following our ready made route-plans or one of thousands of freshwater lochs and lochans, and The Outer Hebrides are just a short ‘hop’ from Following another successful year with the Select kayaking through silent waters or cycling the you will be well looked after by the owners or your own. mile after mile of soft shell-sand beaches, where Glasgow’s international airport. Collection, we continue to offer a limited number islands’ tracks and quiet roads. Or, perhaps, managers and staff - in the true tradition of Prices start at £499 per person (8 nights), for 2 of holidays based in accommodation that we tropical plants and seeds are often washed Our travel advisors would be happy to organise experiencing some of the most consistent surf Hebridean hospitality. sharing in a mix of group 1 and 2 regard as extra special - for a complete itinerary or ashore by the Gulf Stream. accommodation - including all your ferries, bed your flights from Glasgow, a flydrive car, ferries in Europe; climbing sea-stacks or kite surfing Our holiday itineraries are foundation stones on an add on to a more modest holiday. Wide open space is everywhere, so it’s hardly and land-sailing. and breakfast and bike hire (e-bikes add £18.00 and accommodation for an unforgettable start which we can build your own holiday The accommodation may be more luxurious, in a surprising that most visitors come to find peace per night). If you prefer a shorter holiday, or to or conclusion to your holiday of a lifetime. Whatever your interests,we bring you a programme - personal to you and designed to unique location or perhaps offer more facilities and quiet. Some arrive in the hope of seeing bring your own bikes, just ask and we’ll quote With a flight into or out of Barra’s amazing convenient, high quality and good value for fit your wishes. than some of the others we list. rare and wonderful creatures at close hand - sea you. See pages 11, 21 and the complete details money opportunity to experience the Hebrides airport - the only beach airport in the world that We’ll book all your accommodation for you, your that are on our web site. handles scheduled flights. See page 17 for more information. ferries, air travel if required, and even help you What did you enjoy most about find a programme of activities. What did you enjoy most about your holiday? If you want your holiday to include a hire-car or your holiday? a rental bicycle (even electric-assisted) we can help; we’ll even point you in the right direction “The great people we met, the for the public bus network, if you wish. “The peace and quiet.” breathtaking scenery and the history of What’s more, a made-to-measure holiday need “The amazing wildlife and cost no more than an ordinary trip. Our price your country.” promise guarantees it. wildflowers.” - Mr. and Mrs K. from Canada. Explore the brochure and then “The visitor attractions, museums, visit our website at “It was magical. The scenery superb. www.hebrideanhopscotch.com, etc., well laid out and informative.” to see what we have to offer you “The friendliness of everyone we met.” All arrangements went so well.” - then call us for a no obligation A full Scottish breakfast is included each day - quote and itinerary - you’re with lighter alternatives also available. - Mr. and Mrs N. from Ayrshire. welcome. Scan code for tablet or phone - Mr. T. from Worcestershire. 2 INTRODUCTION www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 INTRODUCTION 3 MV Loch Bhrusda, sails between MV Eilean Leodhais (), arrives A Loganair Twin Otter arrives at Barra Beach Airport Fully equipped for a picnic Barra and into Stornoway harbour on a crisp winter day.

Beach runway

Helpful, friendly staff Cruise to the isles Land on the beach

Bring your own car, relax, take your time Cut down your journey time and explore and enjoy the scenery as you sail over to our island paradise the Outer Hebrides with one of our Flydrive cars

he many improvements of recent years, children’s play area - and some of the finest familiar comforts, and you can bring as much njoy speed, comfort and convenience Subject to satisfactory completion of the hire ‘Weekender’ air holidays normally include a have made the road to the isles a great views in . baggage as you like - even your mountain bikes! on a Flybe flight, operated by Loganair documents, fully comprehensive insurance budget price car from a reputable local hire T deal more convenient than it once was, Or take the scenic route to Oban or Skye and Your inter-island ferry crossings are all included E direct from Glasgow to Stornoway’s covers UK/EU drivers between 21 and 75. Older fleet, though you can upgrade for a modest and Scottish Government ferry subsidies cross with another of CalMac’s large, modern in the holiday package on purpose built ferries modern air terminal or to Barra - the world’s or non-EU drivers may be insured without extra charge. have made it considerably less expensive. ships. Typically carrying more than 100 cars and that each vary widely in size and facilities, but all only airport operating scheduled flights on cost, after approval is received from our insurers. As all our holidays are ‘made-to-measure’ we can You could make the road journey part of your 600 passengers, these large, drive-on/drive-off offer a fascinating journey. beach runways. Flybe also provides flights to Our own small fleet of cars (usually Ford Focus, offer any combination of air or sea travel, holiday, taking time to explore other Scottish ships offer a relaxed, stress free journey.Winners If you prefer to travel here by eco-friendly train, Stornoway from Edinburgh or Inverness or similar size) is reserved for 5 to 7 night ‘Island accommodation and transport, from a single highlights on the way - the mountains and glens of many awards, CalMac have staff who really coach or bike, we can still provide just the Compared to a road and ferry journey, you’ll Hopper’ holidays, available from mid-April to centre holiday to the full island hopping of the Highlands and sea lochs of the west care about making your journey easy. No holiday to suit you - all you need do is ask us. save time getting here and you’ll be ready to mid-October. experience, that’s essential to really appreciate coast. customs, no immigration, no fuss and Sunday start exploring, as soon as you arrive. A picnic hamper (with cutlery, crockery, linen the Outer Hebrides. sailings on all the routes we use.You can visit Holidays using car/ferry travel Leave the motorway near Perth and follow wide, ‘Flydrive’ island hopping holidays start on and a flask) is provided in your car so you’ll have Throughout your stay, our locally resident team the restaurant or one of the bars, relax in a only are protected by our Total smooth trunk roads past Inverness to Ullapool. Thursdays and after collecting your hire car all the equipment you need for en route snacks is just a phone call away, ready to offer any Then take a short voyage on the MV Isle of comfy seat or stroll on deck while amazing Payment Protection (topp) from our Stornoway office (airport transfer while touring the islands. We’ve even advice or assistance you may want. Lewis, the pride of Caledonian MacBrayne’s fleet, scenery slips past the ship. Policy cover. Please see our booking conditions included), or from our Barra representative, you’ll remembered to include a rug to sit on, a map, with observation lounge, restaurant, bar, Of course, travelling in your own car, you’ll enjoy on page 24 for more information. We suggest you use the internet to book best be on the road without undue delay. binoculars and a large umbrella. value connecting flights to Glasgow/ Edinburgh. No car? Prefer not to fly? Come as a foot passenger. Prices Local service bus between From £269 Flydrive cars are mid-size, What did you enjoy most about Your Financial Protection: Stornoway and Tarbert The “Hebridean Bus Ride” is a five night holiday typically Ford Focus or similar. your holiday? All the flights and flight-inclusive beginning in Ullapool and ending in Oban (or Holiday Main Low Price holidays in this brochure are financially vice-versa). It’s perfect for ‘non-motorists’ to 01/05/14 01/01/13 - 30/04/14 protected by the ATOL scheme.When you pay tour Barra, the , Harris and Lewis - we book BUS23 to 30/09/14 01/10/14 to 30/04/15 “Beautiful scenery, wildlife, birdlife, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. your accommodation, supply ferry tickets and 5 Nights B & B B & B fantastic wild flowers on the machair, Please ask for it and check to ensure that even a bus timetable so there’s no complicated ££ great hospitality, magnificent everything you booked (flights, hotels and other planning for you to bother with. Group 1 319 269 services) is listed on it. It’s easy to take a train or coach to Inverness or Group 2 369 339 photography giving treasured Oban - see firstscotrail.com, citylink.co.uk, or Please see our booking conditions on page 24 for Group 3 439 379 memories. megabus.com. A Citylink coach, between Group 4 479 389 further information or for more information Inverness and Ullapool, connects to the ferry. Group 5 499 439 2nd visit in 3 years!.” about financial protection and the ATOL If you’re over 60 and reside in Scotland, all your Extra nights - see panel on page 21 Certificate go to: bus and coach journeys may be free! Dinner prices - see property pages 13-17 - Mr. W. J. from Cumbria. www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate Photo: Graham Murdo 4 TRAVELLING BY FERRY www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 TRAVELLING BY AIR 5 Nisabost beach on the west coast of Harris. Local monkfish and scallops Ancient stone circles at Callanish, Lewis - delicious, freshly prepared food

Dramatic light in Harris

Enchanting Lewis and Harris

After visiting the ancient Broch, a see eagles and other raptors. places to stop and explore. The Harris Golf Club little further along, we passed through Carloway, Harris is an island of contrasting scenery – with occupies machair and moorland at Scarista, ...real-life experiences of a couple, travelling and noticed a sign inviting a visit to a weaver, moonscape features of ancient, glacier scoured overlooking the Atlantic - just put your £20 who was happy to demonstrate his craft and mountains in the north, giving way to rich (2012 rate) in the box and play. on their journeys through the Outer Hebrides offer Harris Tweed cloth for sale. Look out for machair and stunning, golden sandy beaches Artist, David Miles, has a studio in Scarista, such signs as there are a number of weavers that stretch for miles on the Atlantic west coast. where you can view or buy oils and who welcome visitors. Having crossed the Clisham on the wide, watercolours. Just up the road from Carloway, at the restored smooth, double track mountain pass (which blackhouse village of Gearrannan - the interior Northton village, on the outskirts of , affords amazing panoramic views), we turned of one house is set around 1950 and gave us a is home to Seallam, a visitor centre where you right on a single track road and followed the fascinating glimpse into island life at that time. can learn more about island communities, as lthough Lewis is the most populated of history right up to modern times. At the town’s houses are fronted by original Victorian dramatic North Harris coastline. As well as well as tracing local genealogy. the islands, it’s still seems very quiet - contemporary arts centre, ,we railings - reckoned to be the most intact A mile or two beyond Carloway, Dail Mòr and glimpses of Taransay and other islands in the Aperhaps because there is so much enjoyed a spectacular ballet performance. They collection in the UK. Dail Beag beaches are highly recommended for western approaches to Tarbert, we were Leverburgh itself offers a couple of shops, bike visits - the entire coastline is a joy for climbers, hire, plus a café at the departure point for the space over which the population is scattered. host regular exhibitions, film, drama and music Travelling a few miles in any direction from rewarded with distant views of an eagle walkers and those who just sit and watch. ferry to Berneray and the Uists. The harbour is On our first visit, we landed in Stornoway, the productions. It also has a great view of the port Stornoway there are many treasures. soaring. This road passes through the gardens area from its coffee bar. The Morven Gallery, at , has an excellent of Castle, before reaching the also a base for boat trips to St Kilda,operated main point of entry to the Outer Hebrides, and Close to the lighthouse at Tiumpan Head on the selection of art for sale and we found the tea hamlet of Huisinis, with a superb beach and by Kilda Cruises and Sea Harris. were fascinated by the diverse range of shops Around , we explored miles of Eye Peninsula (Point), you can view seabird shop made a welcome break. views over the machair to the island of Scarp. and businesses that serve local and tourist paths, first around the natural harbour, then colonies and migrating birds on passage - we Beyond Leverburgh, is an architectural and needs. Local art and crafts are very much in among broad leaved trees and Sitka pines that saw a pod of whales there one calm day. Another detour off the circular journey led to At the township of Tarbert,‘capital’ of Harris historical gem, St. Clement’s Church at . evidence; there are independently owned tower beside the River Creed as it tumbles down Port of Ness, home to several craftspeople The Church was built around 1500 by the From the island’s main circular route, there’s a (boarding point for the ferry service), speciality shops, wonderful restaurants, tea a steep valley to the sea. including Anthony Barber, an artist who Macleods of and Harris and we were diversion along the coastal road to Uig, through we found useful shops, parking and a choice of shops, a couple of supermarkets and hardly a captures Hebridean moods very well. A road fascinated by the tombs, carvings and windows. Ronnie regaled us with local stories at the Lewis a rocky and rugged area where there’s a fair eating places. If you miss old fashioned ‘sell ‘tartan-tat’ souvenir in sight. out of the village leads to the Butt of Lewis, the Loom Centre, where he sells all manner of chance of glimpsing red deer, plus golden or everything’ ironmongers, Tarbert Stores is an From Rodel, we travelled north back up the east extreme north-west point of Lewis, where huge A visit to the Museum nan Eilean taught us Harris Tweed items and has many artefacts to even sea eagles. On Bernera, cross ‘the bridge absolute treat! coast ‘Golden Road’, via the delightful villages seas frequently batter the cliffs beneath the about the island peoples’ way of life through do with the craft of tweed making. Many of the over the Atlantic’ to find a re-created iron age set amongst the rocky inlets of the Bays area of lighthouse. Large numbers of seabirds are After climbing southward for about four miles fort at Bosta, dominating the sandy beach. the east coast, such as Ardvey and Flodabay. often seen here and the bird hide at Loch out of Tarbert, the west coast was laid out before They are in deep contrast with the sandy shores From Meavaig, I took a pre-booked (and Stiapabhat is worth visiting. us, like a three-dimensional map, as we absolutely unforgettable) visit to St Kilda with descended towards the expanse of sand that is and machair of the west coast. On the return to Stornoway, when reaching the Seatrek while my wife spent a day amusing . Even at high tide, much of the sand town’s outskirts, another road leads past the There are lots of twists and turns and short ups herself on Lewis. They also run shorter local is only covered to a shallow depth. more sheltered, sandy beaches of Broad Bay to and downs - with a whole series of tiny boat trips, viewing the coast and sea-life - it the hilltop village of Tolsta. We drove up past A right turn at the bus shelter brought us to settlements and natural harbours. pays to book ahead for all their trips. A couple the village and continued around the cliffs to Luskentyre (Losgantair). One of Harris’s best of miles further and you’ll discover the amazing A fair number of craft and art outlets are to be Tràigh Ghearadha beach and the long expanse known weavers, Donald John Mackay is based in two square kilometres of Ardroil beach - on its found along this road, including the Skoon Art of its neighbour, Tràigh Mhòr. the village, at Luskentyre Harris Tweed.He Cafe at Geocrab. Willie Fulton is a respected own, well worth the journey. even makes tweed for Nike. Southward from Stornoway, we meandered artist here and has a gallery at Drinishader Just beyond the beach, the recently opened across rolling moorland and past many small appointed 5 stars by VisitScotland. The Isle of Abhainn Dearg is the only whisky distillery on From a parking area beside the cemetery, we lochs (lochans), to reach Harris and the pass over Harris Knitwear Co, at Grosebay, has a fabulous Lewis - the first legal distiller for over 100 years. accessed Luskentyre beach, considered by the majestic Clisham mountain range after some to be the best in the Outer Hebrides and shop and showroom for high quality Harris Back on the circular route is one of our favourite about 25 miles. On the way, we turned to the an absolute must for every visitor. Tweed and knitted products. historical sites. The 5000 year old stone circles east of the main road for a while, into an area Lots of choice at the Harris Tweed Hebrides For more information about attractions and of Callanish are smaller than Stonehenge, but known as Pairc - good birdwatching More magnificent beaches line the road south Hike over remote moorlands on Lewis activity providers, please see page 22. flagship store in Stornoway are much more accessible - free entry, too! countryside, where it’s sometimes possible to to Leverburgh and there were ample parking 6 LEWIS www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 HARRIS 7 St. Brendan’s RC Chirch at Craigston on the Isle of Barra Perfect picnics - fresh ccoked local shellfish A calm day on Grimsay has a wonderful, traditional interior - a joy for photographers. from the shop at Kallin harbour

Through the Uists to Barra Berneray - at the north of the Uists

Driving southward again, we crossed moorland Continuing along the picuresque southern up the track from the car park at the end of to a short causeway over the shallows between coastline, we reached Eriskay by crossing a mile- Craigston village. ...continuing the Outer Hebridean North and Grimsay. long causeway. Ablaze with wild flowers in The road hugs the Atlantic coastline for around At Grimsay, while taking a scenic detour of season this was the arrival point of Bonnie three miles, beside rocky shores and sandy experience in more southerly islands about 5 miles around the island, my day was Prince Charlie. If you arrive well before the ferry beaches, with stunning land and seascapes made by the otter that strolled across the departure time, enjoy a stroll or refreshment in awaiting you beyond each bend, before road here, just in front of the car. It then the Politician Inn, celebrating the SS Politician, descending into . which sank and lost its,“Whisky Galore.” lingered a few moments watching us from the Castlebay is quite a busy little village, with a roadside shallows, before swimming off across With over 1,000 species of wild flowers, Barra is modern supermarket, bank and a few the loch. known as the garden of the Hebrides. Named independent shops. after Barra's patron saint, Saint Finnbarr, it’s an s our ferry approached the small island less than two hours, so a couple of days spent outside the village, I was fascinated by a The next island, (Beinn na Faoghla), is , proud home and symbol of of Berneray, the northern entry point here was a very leisurely exploration. traditional, turf-roofed bee-hive building, the commercial centre of the Uists. Balavanich, island paradise, measuring only around five miles across and eight miles long. the MacNeils, sits majestically on exposed rocks Ato the Uists, we gained an immediate Wherever you are throughout the Hebrides, constructed during 1997 and containing a has a few shops, filling station, hospital and an in the bay and is made accessible to visitors by impression of the island’s charm. we’ve found it’s always worth turning down camera obscura. airport offering services to the mainland. Travelling north from the Aird Mhor ferry local boat operators. terminal access road, we passed a delightful, The village (with a convenient tea-shop) lines small side roads, which often lead to interesting From , it’s only a few minutes drive Here you may try a round of golf, perhaps, or The local history society runs a fascinating the shore of a natural harbour, and there are places and give a real taste of local life. across the moors past fishing lochs and peat explore the local heritage at the iron age fort at sheltered, sandy beach at Crannag, then, beside the extensive sands of Traigh Mhor, we joined a museum, Dualchas, which has a series of superb beaches on three sides of the island, To reach the main road that circles , cuttings, to join the west coast road at Clachan, Nunton Steadings. We walked some of the miles collections that document the local culture and backed by machair with colourful, summer where Hebridean Smokehouse sells tasty of white-sanded Atlantic beaches on the west small crowd gathered to watch the Glasgow we wound through crofting land, flanked by flights landing and taking off on the beach. social history that contribute to the changing flowers. We spent quite a while here, before small beaches, salt marsh and rocky smoked salmon, trout or scallops for a luxury coast around Shell Bay and Culla Bay. lifestyle and landscape of Barra. crossing the short causeway that links Berneray promontories. This is otter country, so we kept picnic - with bread from the village store. South of Benbecula, the Isle of – Beyond Traigh Mhor, the tiny Church of Cille to North Uist. Bharra was probably built around1500AD, and More active guests may wish to hire a bike to an eye on the lochans (small lakes). At Cladach Kirkibost, the community centre has Uibhist a Deas - feels softer and greener than tour the island, to harness the power of the Causeways link all of the six islands sometimes a modern shop and cafe- with home made soup the islands to the north, with a central, hilly within the chapel, there’s a replica of the ancient In Lochmaddy, Taigh Chearsabhagh arts runic stone that stood here. wind in a kiting session, or paddle a kayak - referred to collectively as the Uists, so there centre gave us an introduction to the arts, it’s an excellent lunch stop - broadband, too. spine. The west coast has an almost continuous there are plenty of activities available. were no more ferries to catch until we arrived in culture and heritage of the islands in a On the west coast, which is punctuated by length of stunning light shell-sand Atlantic Returning to the attractive harbour village of Eriskay. It’s a journey that can easily be driven in beaches and flower strewn machair. , we joined a road that makes a circuit Continuing beyond Castlebay, the circular road stimulating environment. On the shore, just beautiful, soft shell-sand beaches, the RSPB winds around the rocky east coast through nature reserve at Balranald is a haven for all At Grogarry, we turned east into the Loch of Barra, with Castlebay (the island’s main township) being a similar distance either way. small villages, some with harbours and jetties, Barra - Fishermen’s Mass sorts of wildlife. The warden also leads a weekly Druidibeg National Nature Reserve, an area of until it arrives back in Northbay from the south. otter walk, at Langass, just east of Clachan. striking contrasts, where the colourful flowery Taking the western route, the road traversed the machair grassland of the Atlantic coast gradually central high ground of Barra, passing Loch an Along the east coast, Sheila’s home-made ice We especially enjoyed our time on the shell- cream shop is great for a special treat. sand beach at Balemartin - like several other gives way to lochs and moorland, a haven for Duin before descending gently to the other side beach visits here, we had it completely to wild life. There are Eriskay ponies here and a of the island. Off to the right, the 9 hole, The most southerly inhabited Outer Hebridean ourselves, even on a weekday in high season. walk to Loch Sgioport at the road end. hillside golf course has fantastic views over island, , is accessed over a causeway. It the Atlantic coast and beaches. The rough is has east and west beaches just yards apart While following the ‘committee road’ from My favourite village in South Uist is Howmore (Tobha Mor), with its traditional thatched croft challenging and the greens are fenced to and really must not be missed. Malacleit back to Cladach Kirkibost, I spotted a protect them from sheep. short-eared owl, hunting alongside the road. houses, ruined churches and a beautiful Barra people enjoy the craic - so you’ve every The Uists are renowned for for their sheer beach. The unusual village Church has a Cliaid nestles beneath the hills, alongside a chance of finding an unscheduled ceilidh taking variety of wading birds and raptors. communion table running the full length of the delightful beach. It’s a pleasant place to spend place in an island bar. What a great way to start centre aisle. an hour or so, perhaps with a picnic while or finish your holiday! Anglers can experience some of the best watching oystercatchers on the rocks. salmon, sea-trout and brown trout waters in Kildonan has a heritage and cultural centre Europe - while non-anglers will find it a great with museum, craft shop and a cafe - where we At Craigston, the restored Thatched Cottage For more information about attractions and enjoyed a tasty, light lunch. Museum (An Dubharaidh) is reached by walking activity providers, please see page 22. Howmore South Uist place to buy smoked salmon. 8 THE UISTS, BENBECULA, ERISKAY AND BARRA www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 THE UISTS, BENBECULA, ERISKAY AND BARRA 9 Harbour Loch Na Dah Chill out on a bike holiday

nd-to-end cycling holidays, with St Kilda full day tour by boat: included bike hire, allow island hopping Easy Riders 50 miles to the west of Harris, the spectacular Eat a slower pace - giving many more cliffs and sea stacs of the archipelago are opportunities to enjoy the views and wildlife If you, or your travel partner, home to the world's largest gannet colony, of the islands. would like some help to make plus puffins, fulmars and guillemots. lighter work of headwinds and Choose our 8 day package (page 21), collect St Kilda is not the name of an island, but of hills, consider one of our electric- the entire small group of islands. your bike at one end of the journey between assisted bikes (supplement payable).You still Barra and Lewis, then return it at the other end. have to pedal but the battery-powered crank- The main one of these is Hirta, where you will Travel may be in either direction, but we give drive motor makes the journey easy. land with around 3 to 4 hours to explore the you a discount for a Stornoway start. village and the hills around it. These bikes are pretty much as simple to ride as The daily distance between overnight stops is a conventional bicycle - after a few minutes of The people of the island were evacuated in mainly between 15 and 25 miles - so you should using the extra power, you’ll be confidently 1930 at their own request - the population have enough energy to explore the many enjoying the great outdoors with less effort. had decreased to an extent that they could no longer sustain a community there. interesting side roads to visit beaches, nature In the evening, just unclip the charger from the Disturbed only by a small number of summer reserves and Hebridean villages. pannier rack and refresh the battery in your visitors, conservationists and a few 8 days is reasonably leisurely and lets you have a accommodation. temporarily resident staff at the radar rest or take it a bit easier if it’s windy or wet. Please note that the panniers that fit these bikes station, the islands’ natural environment Should you want to make the journey in a are a little smaller than those on the non- supports sub-species found nowhere else. shorter time, please feel welcome to ask one of assisted models - we estimate about 30 litres. St Kilda enjoys double World Heritage status our advisors to prepare an itinerary for you. For extra space, you can attach your own and you are sure to remember and We provide helmets, panniers and a mini-toolkit additional small bag to the rack top with a with each bike. Ideally, you should travel here bungee strap. with a foldable/rollable rucksack or soft bag, Read more on our website. which you can empty into the panniers, then attach it with bungees to the rack top. Total Over the sea to Skye capacity of the two panniers is about 40 litres. Luggage Transfer Cycling Weather Most of our bikes are Edinburgh Bicycles’ There is endless debate about which way Local taxi drivers are happy to move your Revolution Pathfinders, a model we chose for its luggage for you between overnight stops, cyclists should travel through the islands to take comfort, reliability and robustness. Wide range meaning that you can bring much more with you advantage of the wind. gears mean that you’ll be riding most hills rather ...a perfect extension and have much less weight on your bike. Actual summer weather statistics suggest: than walking. The bikes have mudguards, rack to your Outer Hebrides holiday and decent size tyres, with front suspension to When you book, ask us for a list of taxis, then About 60% of the average wind directions help soak up the bumps. book your luggage transfers in advance. On have some content from the south. arrival at each overnight stop, you can reconfirm Unless you’re arriving by air, we include your pick up and delivery times with the next day’s About 40% of the average wind directions ferry journeys to and from the mainland, as well driver. have some content from the north. as the inter-island ferries. You pay the taxis direct and should budget (For simplicity, westerly and easterly winds are You'll only need to make your own travel around £180 for the whole trip, depending on assumed as half south and half north.) ade famous by , enjoy views across to the mainland. In No trip to Dunvegan is complete without a trip arrangements between your home and the the number of taxi journeys. this island presents some of the most Armadale, you might spend time at the by boat to view the seals, a close-up experience start/finish ports of Oban and Ullapool. You may As it’s impossible to forecast ahead what wind Mvaried landscapes in the Hebrides, impressive Castle Gardens and Museum of the that you’ll almost certainly treasure forever. find it convenient to travel by train, with a coach direction you’ll find here, we can’t see the point from the dominant, rugged mountain range Isles with its visitor centre and nature trails. Or From Dunvegan to the Duirinish Peninsula, a making the link between Ullapool and Hebridean Roads in bothering about it. The important point to of the in the west to the green, visit the Ragamuffin designer knitwear store, by rugged area of moorland and flat-topped Inverness. appreciate is that during the period from April wooded Peninsula in the south and soft the ferry pier. You can ride without feeling threatened on roads mountains, leads to the crofting If you prefer air travel, we're happy to arrange to September, winds are generally lighter. sand beaches on the coast. that are much quieter than on the mainland, North of Armadale, the road joins that from the museum and the Skye Silver jewellery shop. your flights between Glasgow and the islands During summer, we enjoy plenty of sunshine, When you add a day or two extra for your bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh, an alternative route, especially when you avoid the times that people Onward towards Portree, turn off onto the for you - your holiday will then include an with average temperatures mostly a little lower Hebridean adventure, Skye is a fascinating place allowing a visit to the village of Plockton, travel to and from their work. The ‘spine’ road Peninsula, along a coastal road to unforgettable take-off or landing at Barra's than the mainland, making cycling more to linger, before or after an Outer Hebridean famous for TV’s Hamish Macbeth. connecting all the islands is a mix of single and the pretty village of Stein. There are good views unique beach airport. two track width, while many side roads are single comfortable. Summer sun protection is tour, using the short crossing between Uig From Broadford you can take a 45 minute drive over , towards the Uists. You might find internet bargain fares on the track with passing places. important at this latitude. and Tarbert (Harris) or Lochmaddy (North to , a delightful, small village with fine Portree is primarily a small town that serves the Flybe website, so we're happy for you to make Uist). We’re sure you won’t regret a stay here. views into the horseshoe of the Cuillins. For On the single track, there’s no need to panic The Outer Hebrides do not endure strong winds local population through the year, so it’s a good your own flight booking, but please ask us to From the mainland port of Mallaig, there’s a an adventure, you can get closer on a boat trip. about approaching drivers. Just travel slowly every day of the week, even in winter. However, opportunity to get a feel of local life. make sure we have availability of bikes and through the next passing space and they can short, half hour ferry crossing to Armadale. you should accept that you may experience Continuing north west, the A87 hugs the The town’s main feature of interest to visitors is accommodation first. easily pass you by with a cheery wave. Before travelling north, from the ferry turn left to coastline, with dramatic views to Scalpay on the some stormy weather, during which, just like visit the village of and , a the colourful harbour, down a short hill from the right and the mountains to the left. anywhere else in the UK, the wind or rain may littleFairy further Pools on, where there are magnificent see town centre. Surrounded by brightly painted On arrival in , you can choose to drive buildings, it is still regularly used by fishing be uncomfortable for riding a bike. directly north to Portree, the island ‘capital’ - boats, as well as pleasure craft and the lifeboat. On such a day, if you need to move on to your or follow the more interesting west coast road. Just outside the town is the award winning next accommodation, we suggest you phone for The first major attraction on the western route is Aros Experience, with shopping for locally a large taxi (minibus-type), load your bikes and the distillery, situated a couple of produced goods and exhibitions. treat yourself to a warm, dry ride to your miles off the main road, in the village of Carbost. Further north lies the wonderful landscape of destination. Then explore locally by bike, if the A small charge includes a sample and tour. the Peninsula; the Old Man of Storr, weather improves. Back on the main road, about 17 miles beyond Lealt Falls and the rock towers of . Because the weather usually changes quite the Carbost turning, is ,a There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy major highlight of Skye for many visitors. The outdoor activities on Skye, including horse quickly in the Hebrides, there’s every chance family home of the Macleod Clan Chiefs for over riding, hillwalking, fishing, as well as more you’ll be back to normal next day. 700 years, five of its six floors are open to view. leisurely pursuits. For the best chance of satisfactory cycling weather The gardens are a good example of what can be For more information about attractions and conditions we advise that bike holidays are only achieved on Skye and are especially attractive activity providers, please see page 22. when the rhododendrons are in bloom. booked from April to September inclusive. 10 SKYE www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 11 Booking Information Booking Information

Listed in North to South order, within price groups. See www.hebrideanhopscotch.com for full property descriptions. Perfect holidays start What does the Price Blue - Group 1. Good quality bed and breakfast establishments, all with ensuite or private bath or shower. A step by step Red - Group 2. These properties are mainly guest houses, inns or small hotels. Some are licensed and most serve evening meals. with local knowledge Promise mean? guide to Green - Group 3. Mostly higher standard hotels, where you can expect quality cuisine, often with creative use of local produce. Reading a brochure is informative, but it can’t We check prices regularly, to make sure that our Yellow - Group 4 and Gold - Group 5. Establishments with special features that set them apart from Group 3 properties. Quality: The above groups are specific to pricing. For quality guidance, please refer to VisitScotland Star gradings which are beat first hand experience.That’s why we have a holidays are competitive, both in price and planning your team of local resident advisors here in our quality. Our aim is to offer you the best value for shown as available at time of going to press and subject to change. Our holiday advisors will also be pleased to give advice. Stornoway office, to answer your questions, help money available. If, Hebridean The coloured bar alongside each property indicates location: LEWIS HARRIS SKYE UISTS + BENBECULA BARRA you plan your holiday and give you an within 28 days of Please discuss any disabled facilities required with our advisors, who can design an itinerary to meet your needs. immediate price quotation by telephone. booking your adventure www.hebrideanhopscotch.comVisit for more details holiday with us, 1 Leumadair Guest House Located facing the , Leumadair is We know the area and the accommodation a working croft with panoramic views. This is an you find an 7A Callanish hosts, so we’re well equipped to arrange the When you have an outline idea of what LEWIS Isle of Lewis HS2 9DY ideal location for visiting the west side of Lewis, identical travel destinations and features you want, together 1you’d like to do, call one of our local Owner: Donald Macleod as well as circular tours. A twin room is suited to INNER O D P T and advisors on 0845 230 1236 or 01851 706611. K I with a practical travel itinerary. Dinner: Set menu £25 O O wheelchair access and family rooms are also N O accommodation Talk your holiday ideas through - let us look B available. Approximately 25 minutes drive from You’ll find suggested itineraries on the price package at a lower price after everything for you and then you can FREE Stornoway ferry terminal. pages, but you’re welcome to mix and match with another travel operator, send us your forget steps 2 to 5. between routes and accommodation. original quotation from the operator and we will 2 Bonnieview Comfortable accommodation in a separate wing of Or, if you prefer to do all or some of the There’s no obligation to accept the quotation - match the price or, at our option, cancel your 19 Carinish a modern farmhouse on a working croft, with planning yourself, follow these steps. countryside views.You’re welcome to make friends so please feel free to talk to us, even if you’re not booking and refund all monies paid, allowing Isle of North Uist HS6 5HN Owner: Heather Morrison with the owner’s amiable turkey stag and his flock yet quite ready to book. We’ll also be on hand you to accept the other operator’s offer.

NORTH UIST Dinner: Local hotels/ restaurants of hens (they’re not noisy!). ‘Home grown’ pork during your holiday, to offer assistance with any within short driving distance. sausages are occasionally available at breakfast detail that may make your holiday run more and a hotel restaurant is within driving distance. Firstly, decide if the Hebrides will be the FREE smoothly. 2main focus of your holiday, or if your visit With 4-star Gold award, this haven for will be part of a wider Scottish touring 3 Ardnastruban House naturalists, overlookings the channel and Time out! holiday. Grimsay Isle of North Uist HS6 5HT causeway joining Grimsay and Benbecula. Relax If you have friends or relatives you want to stay Think about the islands you’d like to visit, Owner: Margaret & Stewart Wiseman GOLD in a pleasant lounge with panoramic views and

with along the route, or want some days how you’ll travel here, activities you want to NORTH UIST Dinner: Local hotels/ restaurants leather furniture. Stewart, a keen fisherman and without accommodation to take an extended sample and how much time you’ll need to within short driving distance. part time ghillie, can sometimes accompany guests on fishing trips. cruise to St Kilda, for example, that’s no do everything you’re planning. FREE problem. Just tell our advisor and we’ll work out Around a mile from the ferry terminal and the an itinerary to suit you. RSPB Nature walk on Lewis 4 Brae Lea House Lasgair, small town of Lochboisdale, Brae Lea is Isle of South Uist HS8 5TH attractively furnished, with TV in the spacious Choose your path through the islands - Accommodation Owner: Patricia Murray lounge, and offers comfortable accommodation Photo ID for air travel remember, the routes and schedules we 3 SOUTH UIST Dinner: Restaurants and bar meals within in a peaceful setting. There are extensive views, pricing If you’re travelling here by air, please remember show on pages 19 to 21 are only suggestions short drive, or walk to village. drying rooms, hairdryers, good books, and We have grouped our accommodation that you will be required to show approved - feel free to plan your own itinerary, if you pleasant company. according to price and, when you look at pages photographic proof of identification when prefer. 5 Airds Ideal for a peaceful holiday, whilst still near all the 13 - 17, you’ll see colour coded page checking in for your flight/s. Check the details When you call us, we can give you an instant 244 Bruernish, Northbay island’s main attractions, this purpose built family backgrounds to indicate the price groupings of with your airline. For flights from Glasgow, holiday quote and sort out all the ferry or BARRA Isle of Barra HS9 5UY guest house has double-glazing and central heating Edinburgh and Inverness to the Outer Hebrides, the hotels, guest houses, inns and B&Bs. flight timings for you. Owner: Sandra Macleod throughout. Comfortable residents’ lounge, dining the ID Requirements page is in the Check-In Some establishments subscribe to and are Dinner: Heathbank Hotel room and patio.Very pleasant, spacious bedrooms within walking distance. have modern en-suite facilities. A ground floor quality graded by the Scottish national tourist section of the Flybe website. bedroom is suitable for guests with limited mobility.

authority,VisitScotland - their star ratings are Airline hand baggage Select your accommodation from any 1 Group Price alongside, together with their category, Bed & Cabin bags on Loganair/Flybe flights to the 4price group - for example, you might stay 6 The Decca A converted radio navigation station with laid- Breakfast, Guest House, Inn, Small Hotel or Hotel. back atmosphere and cosy en suite bedrooms, Outer Hebrides must weigh under 6 kilos, and in a small guest house by a romantic beach Lionel, Ness LEWIS just across the road from Loch Stiapabhat nature For an indication of individual quality, you not exceed dimensions of 40cm x 35cm x 18cm. one night, then in a luxury hotel with Isle of Lewis HS2 0XB reserve. The sandy beach of Europie, the Owner: Peter and Louise Cooper INNER O should refer to the VisitScotland grading or ask international class restaurant the next. D P T K I O O lighthouse and cliffs at the Butt of Lewis are Dinner: Set menu £25. Also local N our holiday advisor for advice. O Airline hold baggage There’s a tremendous variety to experience - B pub and restaurant nearby. nearby. Enjoy fresh local produce, home baked The flight sectors operated by Loganair for Flybe all in one holiday if you want it - you choose FREE artisan breads and Pete’s piano playing. Travel Insurance (within Scotland) include 20kg free checked and we’ll book it. baggage allowance. Note that baggage charges A modern well maintained bungalow ATOL and Topps protection does not replace 7 Thirty Five may be payable for other Flybe routes - please 35 Coll overlooking the beautiful sands of Coll Bay,

personal holiday travel insurance, which we LEWIS Isle of Lewis HS2 0LP about six miles from Stornoway. King (en-suite) recommend to cover losses due to missed check their website. If you wish, complete the booking enquiry Owner: Moira McKinlay or twin (private bathroom). Use of fridge/freezer. connections, weather interruptions or inability Photographer credits 5form and send it to us - but better still, call Dinner: Wide choice of restaurants in flat screen TV, DVD, stunning shore views. to take your holiday because of illness, etc. Stornoway (about 10-15 mins drive). Guest lounge, full Scottish or continental and one of our advisors on 0845 230 1236 or Some bank and credit card accounts include Additional to property and product illustrations, FREE daily breakfast specials in the conservatory. 01851 706611 for an immediate telephone 2 Group Price holiday insurance, so you may be covered photos in this brochure have been supplied by: quotation. If you’re happy with the price and already. Check that weather delays are Mike Shailes www.mikeshailes.co.uk Ensuite or private bath and/or shower Tea/coffee making Unlicensed. Guests may bring their own Freshwater fishing within 5 miles Malcolm Macleod Abhainn Dearg Whisky want to go ahead, we can start your booking alcohol for responsible consumption. covered - although these are rarely significant Off-street parking Evening meals available Sea view (may not be from all rooms) Wireless Broadband (may be chargeable locally Murdo Graham Bus and check availability for you straight away. in summer, you may wish to be insured for the areas covered may be limited) Loganair (Aircraft) CalMac (Ferries) TV in guest bedrooms Licensed In scenic inland location Computer available for e-mail checking (may not cost of additional accommodation. Remember, we’re here to help. Neil and Jan Buxton Cycling be broadband and may be chargeable locally) More photos and comprehensive descriptions of every accommodation at www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 12 HOW TO BOOK www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 HOW TO BOOK 13 Visit www.hebrideanhopscotch.comVisit for details www.hebrideanhopscotch.comVisit for details 8 Caladh Inn A great team of people enjoy making guests feel 17 Royal Hotel Rightly known as 'Stornoway's most historic hotel' James Street, Stornoway welcome at this hotel. Eleven - the unique, family Cromwell Street, Stornoway - the Royal is right beside the marina and inner LEWIS Isle of Lewis HS1 2QN friendly cafe bar / buffet restaurant is also LEWIS Isle of Lewis HS1 2DG harbour, where you can relax, enjoy the hotel's

INNER O popular with local residents. Clean and cosy character and enjoy dining in the Boatshed Manager: Christina Maciver D P Manager: Alexander Macleod NE K T IN R O I D P O O T K I N comfortable en-suite bedrooms meet the O Restaurant or in HS1, the town's first cafe bar. Dinner: Carvery/Buffet or O O N B Dinner: £33 allowance O

B £23 allowance from ALC. VisitScotland 2 Star Hotel standard. Just a couple against ALC menu We’re sure you’ll enjoy the warmth of the of minutes stroll from the town centre. welcome at this hotel. FREE FREE

INNER O Breakfast and evening meals are served in the 4 D P Comfortable accommodation, fine food and 9 Eshcol Guest House 18 Doune Braes Hotel K T I O O

N star Loch Guest House, 10 yards from Eshcol. O spectacular surroundings. Situated beside an 21 Breasclete, Callanish Carloway B LEWIS LEWIS Isle of Lewis HS2 9ED The famous Callanish Stones are only 2 miles Isle of Lewis HS2 9AA inland loch, close to Carloway on the west side of away. A small establishment where the emphasis Lewis, the hotel is close to surfing beaches and Owner: Neil Macarthur INNER O Owner: Eileen Macdonald D P T K I O O is on quality, attention to detail and warm Dinner: Restaurant (reserve in advance) the archaeological sites of Callanish and Dinner: Set menu £24 N O (next door at Loch Roag GH) B hospitality. All rooms are on the ground floor - 3 courses from around £25 and bar meals. Carloway Broch.The location is excellent to use

FREE ideal for visitors who have problems with stairs. as a base from which to explore Lewis and Harris. FREE 10 Loch Roag Guest House Ideal for touring Lewis and Harris and just 2 miles 19 Baile na Cille Guest House Great for birds, flowers, walking, fishing and just getting away from it all. Lots of fresh food (set 22a Breasclete, Callanish from the Callanish Stones. Good food and Timsgarry, Uig LEWIS LEWIS menu) and fresh air, right beside a two mile Isle of Lewis HS2 9EF spacious dining room, with views over Loch Roag Isle of Lewis HS2 9JD white sand beach.Three sitting rooms: one with Owner: Donald Macarthur towards the hills of Uig and Harris. Walks on Owner: Richard Gollin INNER O INNER O D P D P TV, one with hi-fi, plus the table football/bar K T T I K I Dinner: Set menu £24 O O quiet roads, directly from the guest house. Dinner: Set menu £30 O O N N O O billiards room.There’s a walled flower garden,

B B Convenient for the Uig area and Seatrek’s boat you can sit in, and a grass tennis court and FREE trips from Miabhaig. FREE croquet lawn. And the wonderful Uig sands....

11 Loch Erisort Inn Surrounded by croft land, the Inn occupies a 20 Harris Hotel Family owned for 100 years, offering traditional Sheildinish peaceful and tranquil setting. The Tarbert island hospitality, superb food and a relaxing LEWIS accommodation has recently been refurbished to atmosphere. Spacious sun lounges front onto a

Isle of Lewis HS2 9RA HARRIS Isle of Harris HS3 3DL Owner: Geraldine Curran provide 5 comfortable en suite rooms, some with Owner: Sarah Scott and Andrew Morrison large garden. Extensive range of malt . Dinner: Bar restaurant menu with daily views over Loch Erisort.There is a well stocked Dinner: Restaurant Excellent menus with seafood specialities. Within specials. Around £18 - £20 for three courses. and lively public bar. A good location for Group 4 and Select Collection rooms also available. easy walk of the small town centre and its shops. exploration of both Lewis and Harris. Hotel library, health and beauty salon, guest PC. FREE FREE 12 Sorrel Cottage Sorrel Cottage is an old converted croft house 21 Ceol na Mara Guest House Enjoy privacy and seclusion at this elegant, 2 Glen Kyles, Leverburgh retaining many of its original features. There is a TV 7 Direcleit re-furbished Hebridean house, set in 55 acres of crofting lounge and cycles may be hired from the owner to land with spectacular views over Loch Kindebig. Choice

HARRIS Isle of Harris HS3 3DP

HARRIS Isle of Harris HS5 3TY Owner: Paula Williams explore the beaches of the west coast. Tea/coffee Owner: Marlene Mitchell GOLD of three residents’ lounges. Centrally situated for INNER O D P T K I Dinner: Set menu £27.50. O O making in dining room.There’s plenty to see on local Dinner: Hotels and inn at Tarbert, visiting Lewis and Harris, a few minutes drive from N O Must be pre-booked. B walks, including Golden Eagles on the hill range about 1.5 miles. shops, restaurants and magnificent beaches. Free

(in dining room) behind the house. Convenient for Berneray ferry. FREE wireless broadband. STB rated 4 Star Gold.

13 Grimisdale Guest House On its own peninsula, surrounded by a salmon and 22 Dark Island Hotel A privately owned hotel, the Dark Island offers Leverburgh trout loch, Grimisdale is only a two minute stroll to Liniclate extensive a la carte and table d'hote menus, the post office, shop and other local amenities. The Isle of Benbecula HS7 5PJ catering also for both vegetarian and other

HARRIS Isle of Harris HS5 3TS Owner: Farquhar Macleod theme throughout the guest house is definitely one Manager: Lachlan Maclean special diets. Only the finest and freshest of

Dinner: Eat out locally of quality and service with well appointed BENBECULA Dinner: Restaurant and bar meals. produce is used, with emphasis on local seafood, within short driving distance. accommodation and comfortable residents’ lounge. venison and game.

FREE Well situated for peaceful countryside walks. Group 2 rooms also available. FREE

14 Orasay Inn Managed by the owners and in an area of 23 Hotel Traditions run strong and a warm Island outstanding natural beauty, this small, intimate Lochcarnan welcome awaits you at this small hotel. Enjoy hotel and restaurant has an excellent reputation Isle of South Uist HS8 5PD for its food. In addition to group 2 rooms, Isle of South Uist HS8 5SS peaceful relaxation and friendly efficient service Owner: Isobel and Alan Graham Manager : Sheila MacCormick INNER O superior rooms (illustrated here) with private D P in tranquil surroundings. Situated in a small T SOUTH UIST K

I SOUTH UIST Dinner: £34 allowance O O decked areas and superb sea and mountain Dinner: Restaurant and bar meals. N O against ALC menu B views are available at group 4 price - perfect for crofting village in the south end of South Uist, the

some simple relaxation. FREE Borrodale is an ideal base from which to explore. FREE 3 Group Price

15 Polochar Inn Picturesquely situated right beside the sea, this is 24 Cabarfeidh Hotel Rightly known as 'Stornoway's finest hotel' - the an ideal base for touring.The bedrooms, all 4-star Cabarfeidh is a luxurious home from Polochar Manor Park, Stornoway,

having en-suite,TV-DVD and sea views, have LEWIS home, where you can relax in comfort. Modern Isle of South Uist HS8 5TT Isle of Lewis HS1 2EU recently been exceptionally well renovated. comfortable bedrooms and an excellent Owner: Morag Mackinnon Manager:Tom Strathmore We often see otters and dolphins, as well as the INNER O D P restaurant are of the standard you would expect K T SOUTH UIST I Dinner: Restaurant and bar meals. magnificent views to Barra and Eriskay. Bar and Dinner: £35 allowance O O N of a quality international hotel. The restaurant O Typical 3 course meal £28 - £30 a la carte menu served daily specialising in local against ALC menu B has been highly recommended by ‘The Scotsman’ seafood. Ferries are within 15 minutes drive. FREE FREE and specialises in highest quality local seafood.

16 Heathbank Hotel Originally built as a mission house/church 25 Rosedale Hotel This comfortable, well modernised, harbourside hotel around the mid 1800s. Some of the cast of the Bayherivagh, Northbay occupies houses originally inhabited by fishermen.

SKYE Beaumont Crescent, Portree classic film,Whisky Galore, stayed here in 1948. BARRA Isle of Barra HS9 5YQ Isle of Skye IV51 9DB Several rooms have four posters and sea views and In 1974 it was opened as a hotel and Northbay Owner: Joe Macleod enjoyed its first licensed premises since the Owners: Paul and Allison Rouse all are well appointed with tasteful, contemporary Dinner: ALC menu. Bar meals. closing of the old inn decades before. A recent Dinner: Independently operated fabrics. The breakfast room shares the fantastic N.B. Food service ends before arrivals off late Oban ferry. refurbishment has provided modern, stylish restaurant in hotel (reserve in advance). view across the harbour and dolphins, otters, seals accommodation. FREE and sea-eagles may all be seen. Price Group 2 Group Price

Hebridean Hopscotch Awards 2013 26 Royal Hotel With views over the picturesque harbour and beyond, the Royal Hotel is in the town centre of All of our 2013 guests were invited to complete a questionnaire at the end of their holidays, which SKYE Portree Isle of Skye IV51 9BU Portree, a lively place with shops and music at assesses the quality of service and facilities offered by the accommodation providers and our own staff. Manager: David Morton weekends and well placed for touring. It’s a Those accommodation providers achieving a perfect 100% score were given platinum awards and the remaining first, second and Dinner: ALC restaurant, traditional, comfortable hotel, steeped in history, 3 courses from around £23. third highest points scorers in each accommodation category, hotels, small hotels/inns, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, were then where friendly staff will make you feel at home. Disabled room/facilities.

recognised with the gold, silver and bronze awards shown above. 4 Group Price FREE NEARBY 14 www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 15 Visit www.hebrideanhopscotch.comVisit for details 27 Hamersay House A stylish boutique holiday hotel, launched in Lochmaddy 2013 by the owners of highly successful Langass Isle of North Uist HS6 5AE Lodge. Designer double/twin bedrooms, a Owners : Amanda Leveson Gower contemporary brasserie style restaurant, comfy

NORTH UIST NORTH Dinner : Typical 3 course ALC around £24. lounge bar, landscaped gardens, decked outside eating area and gym. Situated in an interesting township with activities nearby.

28 Craigard Hotel Superbly situated above the main village of Castlebay, overlooking Kisimul Castle, with views Castlebay of the bay and the islands of Vatersay, , BARRA Isle of Barra HS9 5XD Pabbay, Berneray and . Partners: Della Laflin & Julian Capewell The menu features local produce, including 'catch Dinner:Typical 3 course ALC around £25. of the day' - renowned for its wonderful variety and freshness. Parking is available on level ground alongside the hotel.

29 Isle of Barra Beach Hotel The most westerly hotel and pub in Great Britain with a stunning beach location and split level Tangasdale Beach interior design. Hosting an eclectic artistic BARRA Isle of Barra HS9 5XW ambiance while specialising in local fish, Owners: Teresa Jenkins/Guy Adams interesting wines and malts. A place to relax, Dinner: Restaurant and bar meals. unwind and blow the cobwebs away. The Typical 3 course meal £25 panoramic restaurant windows give you a chance to delight in breathtaking sunsets. FREE Price Group 4 Group Price

30 Auberge Carnish This guest house, purpose built in 2011, offers the height of luxury in spacious rooms with stunning 5 Carnish, Uig

LEWIS panoramic beach and sea views. An intimate Isle of Lewis HS2 9EX restaurant features gourmet or more rustic menus. Owners: Richard and Jo-Ann Leparoux The proprietors have previously earned entries in Dinner: Restaurant - reserve in advance. guides such as Michelin and Egon Ronay and Gourmet/rustique menus around £35. earned the highest score in our 2011 feedback. FREE Overlooks the extensive Uig Sands.

31 Hotel Hebrides A recently refurbished boutique style hotel offering quality accommodation. Relax during your stay in Pier Road,Tarbert, our individually appointed bedrooms and top Select Collection

HARRIS Isle of Harris HS3 3DG quality beds. We have an extensive menu and Owners: Angus and Chirsty Macleod pride ourselves on using only the freshest local Lewis: Broad Bay House: Contemporary, beach-side, Dinner: ALC restaurant, 3 courses from around ingredients. Our drinks menu is also varied Award winning 5 Star Gold Guest House. £30. Bar 3 courses from around £20. MAKING HOLIDAYS EXTRA including superb cocktails. Situated in Tarbert, we Auberge Carnish: Beach-side guest house, opened FREE are ideally located for exploring the Isle of Harris. 2011 by well known local chef. SPECIAL IN THE HEBRIDES Harris: Harris Hotel ‘De-Luxe’ rooms: Traditional, Superior, modern ‘HILLSIDE’ rooms are across 32 Langass Lodge family-owned, character hotel in gardens. a covered courtyard from the main hotel - also Locheport ‘Select Collection’ accommodation is very individual, chosen because it offers something special. It Group 3 ‘Lodge’ rooms available. Formerly a Hotel Hebrides ‘De-luxe King’ rooms: North Uist HS6 5HA may be a beautiful room, an amazing location, fabulous food, a panoramic view or a combination of sporting lodge, and now a delightful small hotel. Boutique style 4 star hotel. Owner: Amanda Leveson Gower Stunning views over Langass sea loch to Ben Eaval these pleasures. Over three or four different locations you can enjoy all of these benefits. Skye: Duisdale House Hotel: 4 star Country House NORTH UIST NORTH Dinner: Restaurant (about £38) and and the Minch. Excellent reputation for cuisine and Prices vary considerably from one to another so we suggest you have a chat with one of our Hotel with AA 2 Rosette restaurant. bar meals (reserve in advance). comfortable public areas Disabled room. Confirm advisors to discuss your own preferences and to receive your individual quotation. North Uist: Hamersay House: Modern small luxury FREE restaurant/bar meal reservation in advance. You can add one or more ‘Select Collection’ stays to any holiday - so you might take an Island hotel with leisure facilities. Experience holiday in mainly Price Group 1 B&Bs, but treat yourself here and there. Langass Lodge: Stylish, modern ‘Hillside’ rooms. Originally opened in 1880, the expanded and 33 Castlebay Hotel South Uist: Polochar Inn ‘Superior’ rooms: Spacious modernised hotel overlooks Castlebay and Properties specific to the ‘Select Collection’ are listed below, while others that participate Castlebay in ‘Select Collection’ with specific, individual rooms that merit inclusion in these holidays, rooms with sea views. BARRA Isle of Barra HS9 5XD Vatersay. Menus feature local shellfish - scallops, are indicated by a symbol in the property’s normal price group.There’s a full summary of Barra: Castlebay ‘MacNeil’ room: Wonderful views Manager: Noel Watt crab, cockles and langoustines plus fresh fish from this spacious room. Jacuzzi bath. INNER O D P the properties in the panel at the right of this page. K T I landed from local boats. Quality meats and Dinner: £25 allowance against O O

N O ALC menu. Bar meals available. B salmon from Uist also feature. Parking available FREE beside the hotel. Disabled suite. 34 Broad Bay House 5 Gold stars luxury guest house at the water's

Price Group 5 Group Price edge with direct access to beach.With spacious Back

LEWIS luxury bedrooms and 'designer' ensuites, guests Isle of Lewis HS2 0LQ receive excellent service and food (Eat Scotland Ensuite or private bath and/or shower Tea/coffee making Unlicensed. Guests may bring their own Freshwater fishing within 5 miles Owners: Ian and Marion Fordham GOLD INNER O Silver Award). Comfortable, airy, contemporary alcohol for responsible consumption. D P T K I Dinner: £35 allowance O O lounge and dining room. Free wifi, laundry, N Off-street parking Evening meals available Sea view (may not be from all rooms) Wireless Broadband (may be chargeable locally O areas covered may be limited) against ALC menu B library, PC/printer, local maps, books, CD/DVDs, TV in guest bedrooms Licensed In scenic inland location Computer available for e-mail checking (may not loan bikes. Perfect score in our 2013 feedback. be broadband and may be chargeable locally) FREE More photos and comprehensive descriptions of every accommodation at www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 35 Duisdale House New to us for 2014, encompassing all the strong traditions of great hotel-keeping and then some,

SKYE Duisdale House is perfectly in tune with its guests. Sleat, Isle of Skye IV44 8RE In an exceptionally beautiful area at the southern Owners: Anne Gracie and Ken Gunn INNER O D P end of Skye, about 4 miles from the Mallaig ferry, T K I Dinner inclusive Dinner: £30 allowance O O N O this 4-star country house hotel is the ideal place to

B INNER O against ALC menu. D P start or end your holiday in real style. T Some establishments offer the option of dinner inclusive terms, so you K I O O FREE N Fine dining restaurant with 2 AA Rosettes. O Your evening meals booked B can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having all your arrangements made for you, in advance. and paid for in advance. Some typical ‘Select Collection’ itinerary examples The cost of this option can be added to your invoice and your meal Guests repeatedly tell us how much they have enjoyed the food on bookings will be confirmed on your hotel vouchers. Prices are per Island Experience: Island Hopper: holiday here. person per night and cover 3 courses and coffee, but not other drinks. Price per person for 6 nights by ferry with your own car (2 sharing) Price per person for 6 nights by air with a flydrive car (2 sharing) The price group or VisitScotland star grading is not necessarily the best Where an allowance against an a la carte menu is shown, the Broad Bay House: 2 nights Hamersay House: 2 nights Auberge Carnish: 2 nights Langass Lodge Hilside: 2 nights guide to the style or cost of dining available at a particular property. Our establishment has confirmed that the allowance is sufficient to choose a Castlebay ‘MacNeil’ room: 2 nights £849 (Main Season) Castlebay ‘MacNeil’ room: 2 nights £1059 (Main Season) advisors have the local knowledge and the benefit of guest feedback to good variety of dishes from the menu. You’ll find sample menus for each Duisdale House: 2 nights Langass Lodge Hillside room.: 2 nights be able to offer good advice for you. of the properties on the accommodation pages of our website. Harris Hotel ‘De-Luxe’ room: 2 nights Polochar Inn ‘Superior’ room: 2 nts Auberge Carnish: 2 nights £849 (Main Season) Castlebay ‘MacNeil’ room: 2 nights £1039 (Main Season) 16 www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 17 A taste of the islands Special low season super-saver holidays

Of course you expect to save money when you book a holiday in the spring or autumn - and you’ll do just that if you book in any of our properties. But now, a limited number of the properties in this brochure are offering an even greater reduction from high season rates, when you book a holiday to be taken in our off-peak periods (subject to availability). This means that a couple booking a Great Hebridean Expedition for 8 days could save a total of over £400 in group 4 accommodation, compared to high season prices. Imagine how you could put your extra savings to good use. Perhaps add an extra day or two to your holiday, pick a more luxurious hotel for a couple of nights or enjoy some of the superb cuisine for which the Outer Hebrides is so well known. Super-saver discounts are available at: Barra Castlebay Hotel Harris Harris Hotel Lewis Cabarfeidh Hotel Uists Bonnieview Hotel Hebrides Caladh Inn Borrodale Hotel Skye Duisdale House Royal Hotel Dark Island Hotel Rosedale Hotel Broad Bay House The Saver column in the price panels overleaf will help you see some of the savings that can be made. You’re welcome to mix and match accommodation between price groups to suit your preferences and make up the itinerary that suits you best. Our local holiday advisors will be happy to give you more information and help you make your selection. All offers are subject to availability.

IMPORTANT: Prices shown on these pages are per person, based on two adults travelling in one car and sharing a twin or double room. Per person prices will generally be higher for one person in a car and lower for three or more. Please ask our advisor for a quotation.

Prices Hebridean Island Hopper From £499 A complete 5 night Hebridean ‘end-to-end’ holiday, from Glasgow by air, including flydrive car. The Island Hopper is your unique opportunity to explore all the islands between Barra and Lewis using a hire car that you pick up at one end of your adventure and leave at the other. This means your holiday will include either a take-off or landing at Barra - an experience voted as the world’s ‘Top Touchdown’ by PrivateFly.com members in 2011. It’s the only airport in the world where scheduled flights land and depart on a beach. At the other end of the itinerary, Stornoway airport is still tiny by mainland standards, with friendly, helpful service. There are security checks, of course, but otherwise, flying in the Outer Hebrides is just about as easy as catching a bus. Designed as a 5 night holiday (but you can add up to 2 more nights if you wish), the Island Hopper route is only 134 miles from start to finish. So you have plenty of time to explore the side roads along the way, leading to nature reserves, secluded harbours, amazing shell-sand beaches, remote settlements and picturesque places where you may wish to simply sit and while away an hour or two of perfect peace. At the end of each day, there will be a comfortable bed waiting for you at each accommodation of your choice - whether you have selected B&B’s, four-star hotels or a mix of properties, we’re certain you’ll enjoy wonderful hospitality. Starting on a Thursday, your Flybe* direct flight is from Glasgow to the Isle of Lewis or Barra. We suggest you check the internet for the best value fares Example Main Low Saver connecting from your home to Glasgow. prices 01/05/14 01/01/14 to 30/04/14 Your Flydrive car is usually a Ford Focus or similar size car under 12 months old. to 30/09/14 and 01/10/14 to 30/04/15 (Collection/drop off at and our Stornoway office (taxi transfer 5 Nights B & B B & B B & B provided from/to Stornoway airport). Your route follows the Island Experience £££ itinerary, shown on the next page. Group 1 649 499 - As this holiday is limited by the number of vehicles available, it’s essential to Group 2 699 579 - book early to secure a particular date. Available for a minimum 5 nights / Group 3 769 619 579 maximum 7 nights. Group 4 809 629 609 Group 5 849 679 - *Flybe flights to the islands are operated by Loganair. Air fare prices may vary, Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 according to seat availability, date of travel and time of booking. Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 April to October (inclusive) only.

www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 ITINERARIES 19 Relax on island time Stay a little longer

IMPORTANT: Prices shown on this page are per person, based on two adults travelling in one car and sharing a twin or double room. IMPORTANT: Prices shown on this page are per person, based on two adults travelling in one car and sharing a twin or double room. Per person prices will generally be higher for one person in a car and lower for three or more. Please ask our advisor for a quotation. Per person prices will generally be higher for one person in a car and lower for three or more. Please ask our advisor for a quotation.

Prices Prices Discover the Hebrides From £199 Hebrides Adventurer From £399 The A 3 night short break by sea, visiting Lewis, Harris and Skye. Holiday Price Main Low Saver Our 6 night,‘ten-best’ of the Hebrides, at a gentle, relaxed pace. Holiday Price Main Low Saver perfect Start your holiday from Ullapool, Mallaig or Kyle of Lochalsh. 01/05/14 01/01/13 to 30/04/13 FROM MALLAIG OR OBAN,VISITING SKYE, LEWIS, HARRIS, BERNERAY, 01/05/14 01/01/14 to 30/04/14 to 30/09/14 and 01/10/13 to 30/04/14 island From ULLAPOOL, cruise across the Minch to Stornoway, with at PUF/HOP 13 NORTH UIST, BENBECULA, SOUTH UIST, ERISKAY,BARRA,VATERSAY. HER/HOP 23 to 30/09/14 and 01/10/14 to 30/04/15 break least two sailings to choose from between Monday and Saturday 3 Nights B & B B & B B & B Start at MALLAIG, (from Oban, the route is reversed) take the ferry to 6 Nights B & B B & B B & B (Sundays one sailing only at 18:15). Crossing time 2hrs 45 mins. £££ Skye, then stay at Portree to spend a day or so exploring. Then, £££ Spend 2 days or so exploring Lewis and Harris before taking the Group 1 229 199 - board your ferry from Uig, crossing to Tarbert, Harris. Group 1 449 399 - ferry from Tarbert on the Isle of Harris to Uig, on Skye. Group 2 269 249 - Enjoy a couple of days touring Lewis and Harris, then take a ferry Group 2 499 479 - Spend a night or two in Portree – the ‘capital’ town of Skye. Group 3 309 269 - from Leverburgh (Harris) to the enchanting Isle of Berneray, which Group 3 599 519 - deserves a few hours investigation. Return to the mainland either by taking one of eight, daily, short 25 Group 4 329 279 247 Group 4 649 529 487 minute ferry crossings from Armadale to Mallaig, or over the bridge to Kyle of Lochalsh. Group 5 349 299 - Enjoy the scenic circular road, coastal villages, inlets, beaches and the nature reserves of Group 5 669 589 - the Uists. Spend a night or two on these isles before moving south to Barra to soak up Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 STARTING FROM MALLAIG OR KYLE, Simply follow the above route in reverse. even more scenery and tranquillity, before your ferry returns to the mainland port of Oban Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Please note, at time of going to press, we are researching new properties for Skye. (not Saturdays). Note at time of going to press, we are researching new properties for Skye.

Prices Prices Island Experience From £299 Great Hebridean Expedition From £519 Our The classic 5 night end to end tour of the Outer Hebrides, Holiday Price Main Low Saver Perfect The ultimate 8 night experience for serious island hoppers. Holiday Price Main Low Saver most driving your own car, with relaxing ferry cruises. 01/05/14 01/01/13 to 30/04/13 for a FROM ULLAPOOL OR OBAN,TO SKYE, LEWIS, HARRIS, BERNERAY, 01/10/1001/05/14 01/05/1101/01/14 to 01/10/1130/04/14 popular FROM ULLAPOOL OR OBAN,VISITING LEWIS, HARRIS, BERNERAY, TER/HOP 08 to 30/09/14 and 01/10/13 to 30/04/14 NORTH UIST, BENBECULA, SOUTH UIST, ERISKAY,BARRA, VATERSAY. FUL/HOP 25 -to 30/04/11 30/09/14 -and 30/09/11 01/10/14 -to 30/04/12 30/04/15 NORTH UIST, BENBECULA, SOUTH UIST, ERISKAY AND BARRA longer holiday 5 Nights B & B B & B B & B holiday From ULLAPOOL, there are at least two daily sailings (2hrs 45mins) 8 Nights B & B B & B B & B From ULLAPOOL, there are at least two daily sailings (2hrs 45mins) £££ between Monday and Saturday (Sundays one sailing only at 18:15). £££ between Monday and Saturday (Sundays one sailing only at 18:15). Group 1 399 299 - After two days or so exploring Lewis and Harris take the ferry from Group 1 569 519 - Explore Lewis and Harris for 2 or 3 days before taking the ferry Group 2 449 419 - Tarbert, Harris to Uig, on Skye, and stay a night or two at Portree – Group 2 639 599 - from Harris to Berneray and the Uists. Pick out the activities, Group 3 519 459 389 the island’s capital. Note at time of going to press, we are Group 3 769 669 - historic features or sights that interest you, until you reach the ferry researching new properties for Skye.Then re-board your ferry at Group 4 559 469 419 Group 4 829 689 619 from Eriskay to Barra. It’s less than a two hour journey, but there’s more than enough to Uig, for a 1 hr 40 mins crossing to Lochmaddy, North Uist. Group 5 579 519 - Group 5 849 759 - make a couple of night’s stay well worthwhile. Follow the scenic road around the west coast of North Uist, then meander south through Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 Soaking up Barra’s scenery and tranquillity for a day or two before taking the ferry Benbecula, Uist, and Eriskay for the short ferry crossing to Barra, to soak up the relaxed Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 journey back across the Minch from Barra to the mainland port of Oban (not Saturdays). atmosphere before your return to Oban on the mainland (5 hours, not Saturdays).

Prices Prices Hebridean Highlights From £379 Freedom of the Isles by bike From £499* Enjoy a 6 night, almost circular tour through wonderful scenery. Holiday Price Main Low Saver NEW Bike hire included for a fantastic, pedal powered end to end Example Prices Main Low island hopping experience - explore places inaccessible by car. (By ferry two £25 discount p/p for Stornoway start. FROM ULLAPOOL, MALLAIG OR KYLE OF LOCHALSH,VISITING 01/05/14 01/01/13 to 30/04/13 Electric sharing room.) 01/05/13 01/01/14 - 30/04/14 LEWIS, HARRIS, BERNERAY,NORTH UIST, BENBECULA, SOUTH UIST to 30/09/14 and 01/10/13 to 30/04/14 We suggest a relaxed, eight night itinerary - other durations are CURL/HOP 11 bikes now BIKE 08 to 30/09/13 01/10/14 - 30/04/15 AND ERISKAY - ADD BARRA AT EXTRA COST, IF YOU WISH. available.Travel here by the method most convenient to you, then 6 Nights B & B B & B B & B available use our modern hybrid touring bikes (including pannier bags and 8 Nights B & B B & B From ULLAPOOL, there are at least two daily sailings (2hrs 45mins) £££ helmet). Electric assisted bikes at a supplement of £18 per day. ££ between Monday and Saturday (Sundays one sailing only at 18:15). Group 1 409 379 - You might travel by car or train to Oban (secure parking), then join 4 nts G1 + 4 nts G2 629 524 Explore Lewis and Harris for 2 or 3 days before taking the ferry from Group 2 469 439 - the scenic ferry route to Barra. Return via the Stornoway - Ullapool Group 2 669 619 Harris to Berneray and the Uists. From Berneray to Eriskay is barely Group 3 559 479 - ferry, or use public transport back to South Uist for an Oban ferry. 6 nts G3 + 2 nts G2 739 639 two hour’s drive - but stop at least one or two nights, before sailing 6 nts G4 + 2 nts G2 819 689 Group 4 609 489 457 Or, fly from Glasgow to Stornoway or the beach airport at Barra, to Uig (Skye) from Lochmaddy in North Uist (including Sundays). Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Group 5 629 559 - returning directly from your finishing point; we can book flights if required (add £110 low Stay in the island’s capital, Portree, on Skye then depart over the toll-free bridge to Kyle of season, £160 main season).We'll offer you a choice of sensible itineraries, based on Note: Low season prices include ‘saver’ discounts Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 Lochalsh, or via the short ferry crossing from Armadale to Mallaig. experience gained by our own staff who have enjoyed 'cycle hopping' here. See page 11 subject to itinerary choice. *=Stornoway start. Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Extra nights - see panel at foot of this page. Please note, at time of going to press, we are researching new properties for Skye. and our web site for more information. Bookings not advised outside of April-September.

Prices Prices Hebridean Triangle From £299 Extend your stay From £40 Short A 5 night tour with short sea crossings, majestic mountains Holiday Price Main Low Saver Stay a little longer on any of our holidays. Extra Nights Main Low Saver and beautiful beaches. crossings 01/05/14 01/01/13 to 30/04/13 The holiday durations shown in the previous panels are just 01/05/14 01/01/14 to 30/04/14 on this FROM MALLAIG OR KYLE OF LOCHALSH,VISITING LEWIS, HARRIS, GUL/HOP 14 to 30/09/14 and 01/10/13 to 30/04/14 suggestions, based on our most frequently received booking to 30/09/14 and 01/10/14 to 30/04/15 BERNERAY,NORTH UIST, BENBECULA, SOUTH UIST AND ERISKAY - requests. However, there’s so much to do in the Outer 5 Nights B & B B & B B & B Per Person B & B B & B B & B holiday BARRA MAY BE ADDED, AT EXTRA COST, IF YOU WISH. Hebrides and Skye that you may wish to enjoy extra days, to £££ £££ take part in an activity or relax some more, perhaps. Group 1 46 40 34 Starting in MALLAIG, (from Kyle of Lochalsh, the route is reversed) a Group 1 349 299 - 25 minute ferry ride (Sundays included) brings you to the southern Just check the panel on the right to calculate the additional Group 2 55 53 41 Group 2 389 359 - tip of Skye. Staying at Portree, the island’s capital, you could find cost to your holiday. Group 3 69 60 51 Group 3 479 399 - Group 4 79 62 59 plenty to see for at least two days. Don’t forget, you can make up your own holiday itinerary with Group 4 519 409 389 Group 5 85 75 63 From Skye, a ferry takes you to Tarbert, on Harris. Explore Lewis and Harris for a day or a mix of accommodation from different price groups, or take Prices shown in this panel are per person, based on two two, then cross to the Uists for idyllic shell sand beaches and nature reserves. Then return Group 5 539 469 - a different route through the islands - we’ll happily advise on Extra nights - see panel at foot of page 21 adults sharing a twin or double room. If you are using a to Skye via a ferry from North Uist and depart the island via the toll-free bridge at Kyle of the areas where it’s worth spending more time, calculate the flydrive or rental car, there is an additional cost for the Dinner prices - see property listings pages 13-17 Lochalsh. Note at time of going to press, we are researching new properties for Skye. cost for you and supply a quotation without any obligation. extra days’ hire. Please ask our advisor.

20 ITINERARIES www.hebrideanhopscotch.com 0845 230 1236 ITINERARIES 21 The St Kilda Experience Your Holiday Planner

St Kilda full day tour by boat: Disturbed only by a small number of summer The best way to book your holiday is to firstly discuss your ideas with one of our expert travel advisors. We’re happy to offer as much or as little input as 50 miles to the west of Harris, the spectacular visitors, conservationists and a few temporarily you wish. You may find it helpful to take a look at our planning guide on page 12, then note some of your wishes below. It’s not essential to do this, but resident staff at the radar station, the natural cliffs and sea stacs of the archipelago are home it does help us to understand your holiday desires more fully. to the world's largest gannet colony, plus environment supports unique sub-species. puffins, fulmars and guillemots. Three nights accommodation is needed near All of our holidays are individually planned and to help us find the best for you, please tell us which of the following are most appealing: the start point (the second day reserved in case St Kilda is not the name of an island, but of the ‰ Wildlife ‰ Shell-sand beaches ‰ Peace and quiet ‰ Music ‰ St Kilda entire small group of islands. weather prevents travel on the chosen date). History Hearing Gaelic Archaeology Natural landscapes Local food The main one of these is Hirta, where you will Your day out lasts around 12 hours with an early ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ land with around 3 to 4 hours to explore the morning start from Leverburgh, Harris or from ‰ Relaxation ‰ Wild seas ‰ Family history ‰ Seascapes ‰ Open spaces village and the hills around it. Miabhaig, Lewis.Travel with Seatrek, Kilda Cruises ‰ Wildflowers ‰ Shopping ‰ Boats ‰ Hills and mountains ‰ Malt whisky The people of the island were evacuated in 1930 or Sea Harris - 2013 price was £190/person. at their own request - the population had For contact details and to book direct, see ‘Boats’ Which islands would you like to visit? decreased to an extent that they could no in the Lewis and Harris section below. Lewis Harris The Uists Barra Skye Not sure longer sustain a community there. Our travel advisors are happy to to ensure you ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ ‰ St Kilda enjoys double World Heritage status have the right accommodation in the right place Do you prefer your journey through the islands to be from? and you are sure to remember and appreciate at the right time and can assist you with your the excursion forever. excursion booking. ‰ North to South ‰ South to North ‰ Not sure

When would you like to visit? Do you have any alternative dates?

How long would you like your holiday to be? nights

Do you prefer to travel to and on the islands? ‰ Arriving by ferry and using your own car (or bike, etc.) ‰ By another means, arriving by ferry and using a Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays car ‰ By another means, arriving by ferry and using a Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays bicycle Popular activities and organisers ‰ By air and using a Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays car ‰ Not sure Note:The absence of charge information may not indicate free entry/participation. Please check prices at websites or by phone LEWIS & HARRIS SKYE Are there any organised activities that you’d like to take part in, or special interests you have? (See opposite page.) Walking: Lews Castle Grounds in Walking: On beaches, moors and Organised walks: Brian Lowe, also Home-made ice cream and souvenirs: E.g. Birdwatching, St Kilda boat trips, family history, walking, photography etc? Stornoway. Coastal track from Tolsta to mountains. Plenty of walks for casual working for the RSPB, normally leads Sheila McIntosh makes and sells Ness.West coast of Lewis. Hill walks in strolls, plus hikes for the adventurous. weekly wildlife walks in North Uist, wonderful ice cream at her shop in the wild, rugged northern area of Harris, Seals: Boats leave jetty at Dunvegan orientated towards corncrakes. He is Brevig, two miles east of Castlebay. She plus valley walks off the Hushinish road. Castle every 20 minutes, during the usually able to advise on privately also sells a good range of high quality Golf: Stornoway Golf Club offers 18 season. Castle and gardens also open. organised walks for groups. gifts and Hebridean knitwear. What kind of accommodation do you prefer? demanding holes in a parkland setting. www.dunvegancastle.com Call 01876 510725 Boat trips: Barra Fishing Charters’ full www.stornowaygolfclub.co.uk 01470 521206 Boat trips: Lady Anne sails from Kallin day trip is to Mingulay, viewing puffins 01851 702240 Visitor Centre: Award winning AROS,at harbour, Grimsay to the Monachs (seal on the cliffs and other wildlife. A three ‰ B & B ‰ Guest Houses ‰ Inns ‰ Hotels ‰ Luxury ‰ Not sure Boats: All below also offer St Kilda Portree offers exhibitions and shopping. colony) plus local trips. hour outing including equipment and trips - see above. www.aros.co.uk - 01478 613649 www.uistboattrips.com - 01870 602403 bait for fishing is also available. Are there any specific properties you’ve see in the brochure, where you would like to stay? Murray Macleod's Seatrek, at Miavaig Whisky Tour: , Carbost. Golf: Golf Club - Old Tom www.barrafishingcharters.com near Uig, Lewis - 2 hour trips on a fast, Admission prices and details at: Morris's 'lost' course, alongside the 01871890384. Delta-Rib boat to see islands, lagoons, www.malts.com - 01478 614308 Atlantic ocean. Open seven days a week Bicycle hire and boat trips: John caves, wildlife - possibly sea-eagles. Golf: Isle of Skye GC, . 9 holes www.askernishgolfclub.com Macdougall offers bikes for £12 for the www.seatrek.co.uk - 01851 672464 and 18 tees, beside the sea. Benbecula Golf Club - 9 testing holes on first day and £6 each day thereafter. Also In Harris, Angus Campbell (Kilda Cruises) www.isleofskyegolfclub.co.uk a flat course, Honesty box, open 7 days. afternoon rib-boat excursions. and Seumas Morrison (Sea Harris) also 01478 650414 www.benbeculagolfclub.co.uk www.barraislandadventures.co.uk include Shiant Isles (for Puffins),Taransay, Boat Trips: Bella Jane and AquaXplore Smoked salmon: Loch Duart smoked 01871 810284. Scarp and the Monachs (for grey seals). sail from Elgol to Loch Coruisk, and salmon at the Smokehouse, Lochcarnon, Golf: Barra Golf Club has a links course www.kildacruises.co.uk - 01859 502060 islands to view seals and other wildlife. South Uist - a perfect picnic snack. with nine holes and honesty box. Enjoy Any other notes or questions that you want to ask. www.seaharris.co.uk - 01859 502007 www.aquaxplore.co.uk www.lochduartsmokedsalmon.com/. the challenge plus amazing views of the Harris Tweed: Don't miss the fabulous www.bellajane.co.uk 01870 610324. Atlantic coast. Harris Tweed Hebrides 'flagship' store 0800 731 3089 or 01471 866244. Museum: About 7 miles north of www.isleofbarra.com and Ronnie Mackenzie's Lewis Loom THE UISTS Lochboisdale, Kildonan Museum is more Heritage: Dualchas is in Castlebay and Centre both in Stornoway. Walking: Particularly recommended is a a visitor centre, than just a museum. holds the collections of the Barra and Bike Hire (inc. e-bikes): For our own walk around the Berneray coast. Open April to September, including Vatersay Historical Society. Exhibitions guests only at Caladh Inn, Royal and Nature: RSPB Balranald warden will Sunday afternoons. are held through the summer months. Cabarfeidh hotels in Stornoway. Not advise on summer organised walks. Also BARRA www.barraheritage.com prebookable and subject to availability. otter walks at Langass. Walking: On beaches, moors and hills. Toffee: If you've a sweet tooth, don't Golf: Harris Golf Club has 9 holes www.rspb.org.uk or call There are plenty of walks for casual miss Hebridean Toffee, Castlebay, where overlooking the ocean at Scarista. No 01876 560287 strolls and challenging hikes for the they sell 'tablet' that's judged by many to Sunday play. Honesty box at most times. Dolphin watching: You can catch a sight more experienced walker. be the best they've tasted. www.harrisgolf.com of dolphins at any time, especially on a Sea kayaking: When not running longer www.hebrideantoffeecompany.com Family History: Seallam Visitor Centre boat trip. If you're on land, watching from tours, Clearwater Paddling operates Aircraft landing: Whether or not you at Northton, Harris, has exhibits dealing an elevated position over a calm sea, can accompanied day trips all around Barra. have any interest in aviation, you’re sure Telephone numbers for UK callers: 0845 230 1236 (free to call in most BT plans). Direct line at standard rates 01851 706611. with local history and the natural be fruitful, particularly on a warm sunny There are plenty of opportunities to view to enjoy watching a landing and take off environment. Resources for researching day. all kinds of wildlife. at the beach airport. For times, ask at Telephone number for International callers: +44 1851 706611. the family history of the islands. Dolphins are occasionally seen in the sea www.clearwaterpaddling.com your accommodation or see the www.seallam.com - 01859 520258 at the Polochar Inn, South Uist. 01871 810 443. timetables page at www.flybe.com Email: [email protected]

22 ACTIVITIES HOLIDAY PLANNING 23 Booking Conditions Your holiday reservation explained

Before completing your booking, please read the booking conditions, which are always be possible. Any request for change should be made to us in writing by the straightforward and confirm what we commit to you, as well as what you commit person who made the original booking. Whilst we will be happy to make any to us. Your statutory rights are not affected by these conditions. accommodation changes free of charge, there can be cost implications in Your holiday contract is with Kenman Holdings Limited, changing ferry and/or air travel arrangements. We shall advise you of any charges company number SC109839, registered in Scotland and trading as should this situation arise. Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays, ATOL Number 6349. If you cancel your holiday When you make a booking with us, you guarantee that you have the authority to You may cancel your holiday at any time. If you wish to cancel your holiday accept, and do accept, on behalf of your party, the terms of these booking booking, please arrange for us to be notified, in writing, by the person who made conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue either our letter of the original booking. We recommend that you take out insurance against confirmation (for holidays using car/ferry travel only), or our confirmation invoice cancellation charges, which are as follows: Between confirmation of booking and (for holidays including air travel). This contract is made on the terms of the 43 days prior to arrival - administration fee of £25 per person, 42 to 15 days prior following booking conditions, which are governed by Scottish Law, and the to arrival - 50% of the full holiday cost, 14 days or under - 100% of the full holiday jurisdiction of the Scottish Courts. cost. All travel arrangements made on your behalf and all tickets issued, are subject to If we change your holiday the terms and conditions of the relevant travel operators, CalMac Ferries Limited, If required, we reserve the right to change your holiday arrangements. In the very Loganair Ltd and Flybe. Copies of these conditions can be obtained either from unlikely event of us having to do so, we shall contact you as soon as possible with ourselves or direct from the travel operators or on our website. details of any changes. If we need to make a major change to your holiday, you Your financial protection - holidays using car/ferry travel but no flights shall have the choice of accepting the change or cancelling your booked holiday Total Payment Protection (topp) Policy cover: and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Timings of ferry and air schedules can be subject to change because of timetable changes, weather conditions or In compliance with the UK Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours technical problems. We shall not be liable for any loss arising out of delays on Regulations 1992 an insurance policy has been arranged with Travel & General scheduled timings on any modes of transportation and recommend that you take Insurance Services Limited (tagis), to protect customers' prepayments in the out travel insurance. unlikely event of our financial failure and paid in respect of Force majeure z non-flight inclusive packages commencing and returning to the UK This means we shall not be liable for any loss, inconvenience, expense or injury if z the ground handling aspects of packages where the customer is responsible for you have to cancel or change your travel arrangements in any way because of arranging travel to the destination unusual or unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control. These can include, z inbound business to the UK for example, war, riot, industrial dispute, natural disaster, fire or adverse weather offered in this brochure (subject to the terms of the insurance policy), for: conditions. z a refund of such prepayments if customers have not yet travelled, or If you have a complaint z making arrangements to enable the holiday to continue if customers have All descriptions of accommodation and travel services are published in good faith already travelled, or and are accurate at time of brochure publication. If you have any complaint or z repatriation of customers to the UK or their home country as may be applicable. criticism of any aspect of your accommodation during your holiday, please take it Customers' prepayments are protected by a topp policy. up immediately with the accommodation management or owner. Likewise, if you are dissatisfied with any aspect of the service provided by the travel operators, In the unlikely event of financial failure please contact the claims helpline on please advise the appropriate member of supervisory staff. We too would 0870 0137 965. A copy of the policy is available on request. appreciate knowing the detail of any such occurrence, together with your view as This policy is provided by Travel & General Insurance Services Limited (tagis), to whether the problem was remedied to your full satisfaction. If you still feel dis- registered number 02527363 and underwritten by International Insurance satisfied we shall make all reasonable endeavours to investigate your complaint Company of Hannover Limited (Inter Hannover), registered number 01453123. and report back to you with our findings. We may, at that stage, offer you a sum of tagis and Inter Hannover are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct compensation that, at our sole discretion, we feel to be reasonable under the Authority. circumstances. For your convenience a copy of the policy is at www.hebrideanhopscotch.com Data protection For holidays including flights and car and/or ferry travel. The personal information you supply to us will only be used for the purpose of Your financial protection arranging your holiday, updating our customer records, or contacting you for When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will marketing or research purposes. Some relevant information will be passed on to receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can accommodation providers and travel operators in connection with your holiday get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. arrangements. We also may occasionally make some names available to other We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the Hebridean businesses whose products we think may interest you. If you do not services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, wish to receive this information, please tick the box on the booking form. where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an How to make your booking alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a 1. We are happy to discuss the various itinerary and accommodation choices with suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those you and provide an immediate quote for your holiday. If you prefer you can send circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you an email or complete and post or fax the booking / enquiry form below. For agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that written enquiries, we aim to provide a quotation for your holiday itinerary and cost alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be within one working day of receiving your request. possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to 2. If you accept our quotation, within 1 working day we will send you our Letter of make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where Booking Confirmation and Confirmation Invoice, specifying the details of your applicable). booking and the agreed holiday price, subject to availability of accommodation If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the requested for you. services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or 3. Seven weeks prior to your holiday start date; we will send you our Sales Invoice otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make for the agreed sum. This invoice will be payable within seven days, either by a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that cheque, debit or credit card, thereby allowing us six weeks to process your ferry in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any tickets, itinerary etc. and to send these items to you by recorded delivery post. claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision Payments by credit card will be surcharged 1%, to cover bank processing charges. of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card Payments by debit card or cheque will not be surcharged. issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned Book early – and avoid disappointment to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the Hotel, ferry and flight availability is limited, particularly during the summer ATOL scheme. months. We strongly recommend that you book as early as possible to give us the Your holiday price best chance of booking the most suitable ferry sailing times and your preferred When you make your booking, you must pay a deposit of £75.00 per person. The accommodation. balance of the holiday price must be paid at least six weeks before your holiday Late booking – No problem (Subject to availability) departure date. If the balance is not paid on time, we reserve the right to cancel We can usually arrange a holiday with as little as 5 days notice, subject to your holiday arrangements and refund to you any balance left after settling any availability. Just telephone our bookings hotline to arrange your Hebridean cancellation charges. The price of your travel arrangements may require to be adventure. Bookings made within six weeks of your holiday start date must be varied due to changes in transportation costs, such as fuel surcharges or airport accompanied by payment in full. taxes, changes in VAT etc. If any surcharge totals over 10% of your agreed holiday Special reductions for children price, you shall be entitled to cancel the holiday and receive full refund of all Accommodation: Children under 2 – pay only for meals as taken by arrangement monies paid. with individual hotels. Children 2 – 15 – Up to 50% reduction - please ask for a If you change your booking quotation. If, after your holiday confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel Price Promise Guarantee arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or See page 12 of this brochure for full details. accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not E & OE Hebridean Hopscotch Holidays, 11 James Street, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis HS1 2QN BROCHURE VALID FROM 1/01/2014 TO 30/04/2015