Dog-friendly cabins in Luskentyre
With its dazzling white sands and crystal-clear waters, Luskentyre is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
- Luskentyre
Popular camping styles for Luskentyre
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Dog-friendly cabins in Luskentyre guide
Overview
Home to one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches, the small settlement of Luskentyre is a major draw on the island of Lewis and Harris. Upon first glimpse of Luskentyre Sands, with its miles of dazzling white sand and stunning aquamarine water, you’d be forgiven for thinking yourself on a tropical island rather than the Outer Hebrides. Luskentyre lies along the Hebridean Way, a 156-mile (252-kilometer) walking or cycling route that traverses 10 islands, and the beach’s calm waters are also a good spot for kayaking and snorkeling. Campers can pitch a tent on the beach or stay in a historic blackhouse.
Where to go
Luskentyre Sands
The stunning white sands of Luskentyre’s beach offer the perfect setting for wild camping. The West Harris Trust, a community owned charity, also operates five camping sites in Luskentyre and nearby Shelibost that are suitable for tents, campervans and caravans. All sites are just a short stroll from the shore.
Horgabost
Around a 10-minute drive south down the coast from Luskentyre, Horgabost is another stunning white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water. Slightly more sheltered than Luskentyre, the beach looks over the Sound of Taransay and is the departure point for boat trips. By the beach, overlooking the offshore island of Taransay, Horgabost Campsite is a small and friendly site.
Lickisto
Turning east, you’ll find a remarkably different side to Lewis and Harris on the opposite coast, with a rugged, almost-lunar, landscape of rocky cliffs dotted with small coves and beaches. Perched above a sea loch, Lickisto Blackhouse Camping offers a unique experience with a range of options of offer, from grass and hardstanding pitches for tents and motorhomes, to glamping in a yurt with woodburning stove or staying in a restored 150-year-old blackhouse.
When to go
For experiencing Luskentyre Sands in all its glorious, tropical glory, visiting in the summer months is highly recommended. You can take advantage of optimum weather and long daylight hours that stretch well past 10 p.m. July and August also bring the spectacle of wild flowers carpeting the grasslands, known as the machair, along the west coast, as well as many outdoor events. This is also peak season, so be sure to make reservations in advance.
Know before you go
- Wild camping is legal in Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- Biting midges are a common summertime nuisance in the Scottish Highlands and islands. Don’t forget to pack repellant and long sleeves.
- While it is possible to get around Lewis and Harris by public bus, having your own transportation allows far more flexibility.
- There are a few small stores around Luskentyre, but Stornoway’s supermarkets are your best bet for stocking up on major groceries.
