Locations: The Isle of Harris
I remember, many years ago, seeing an image from the Isle of Harris for the first time and thinking, What preset or plugin did the photographer use to enhance this? The light, the colours, the mood—it was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. I would stare at that image for what felt like an unhealthy amount of time, wondering, Could those colours be real?
I had to see it for myself.
During an extended trip to Scotland in 2018, we booked the short ferry from Uig, on the Isle of Skye, to Tarbert on Harris. That first visit, though just five days long, left me captivated. I knew I had to return as often as possible.
That first visit wasn’t without its challenges though. One of the pitfalls of doing too much visual research before visiting a place is that you build up preconceived ideas of the images you should capture. On top of that, I was at a pivotal crossroads in my own photography, which only added unnecessary pressure in hindsight.
Yet, despite these challenges, it was a magical time. I’m not ashamed to admit I left with a tear in my eye.
Since then, I’ve been back twice more, and each time I get to know the place a little better. Revisiting has allowed me to simply sit and savor the experience—walking, discovering, feeling the sand between my toes, and letting the wind whip through the dunes. I cherish the roar of the sea and the call of birds soaring above. These days, I’m also in a much better place with my photography, so the pressure to create has lifted somewhat.
It’s been a few years since my last visit, and with our travel plans in the coming months, it may be a while before I return. But return I will—Harris holds a special place in my heart.
Many visitors to Harris make a beeline for Luskentyre Beach, and for good reason. It’s stunning. Despite its popularity, you can often find your own little slice of solitude and paradise. The views across the bay toward the Harris hills are a favourite among photographers, but with the ever-changing weather, there’s always a chance to create something unique
Other notable spots on the island include Hushinish (Huisinis), which lies at the end of a winding 14-mile single-track road. We even managed a dip in the water there in October! Or, for the more adventurous, there’s the climb to the peak of Clisham—just over 2,600 feet—with its breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
For those visiting in a camper van, the West Harris Trust offers a scheme with several lay-bys and park-up spots available for self-contained overnight stays. Many of these are ideally located near some of the island’s best beaches. At £5 per night, and with essential services for both people and vans never too far away, it’s an affordable way to explore the area. Plus, saving on accommodation means more funds for those essential cake stops!
Despite today’s weather (Storm Ashley is battering the van), I’m tempted to rethink our plans for early 2025 and squeeze in a little jaunt over to Harris and the rest of the Outer Hebridean islands.
If you enjoy watching travel vlogs, you can find a few from our visits to the Outer Hebrides at the links below.
As a side note, fellow photographer Nigel Danson spent 30 days not just on Harris, but 100% focused on Luskentyre. He published three separate YouTube videos from his experience, and I have to say I think they are fantastic. He also plans to self-publish a book on the experience, and you can check out some of this work from that project at the link below
Until next time .
Happy Pixels ..
