Plan your arrival. There is a ferry four times a week from Oban to Castlebay, Barra's small shopping area. The trip takes around five hours. For a faster and more exciting arrival, British Airways Express operates hour-long flights from Glasgow to Barra in a Twin Otter plane, landing on the sand at Barra's Cockleshell beach. It's the only beach airport in the world with scheduled airline landings, which makes it a spectacular and special way to start your holiday.
Book your accommodation. The Isle of Barra has four hotels, many B&Bs, a hostel and several self-catering options. Details of all of these can be found on the Isle of Barra website.
Take a walk around the island when you arrive. The Isle of Barra is only eight miles long and four miles wide, which makes it the perfect place for coastal and hill walks. Enjoy the island's spectacular scenery and see its many wildflowers, birds, sheep, lochs and white sandy beaches. Maps and guides for suggested walks can be found at the Tourist Board in Castlebay.
Visit Seal Bay on the west coast of the island where you can see seals frolicking on the rocks. This picturesque beach is located beyond the dunes near the Allasdale road junction.
Hike up Heaval, the highest point on Barra. From the peak, you can see great views of the neighbouring islands to the south. There is no clear path to the summit, but most ramblers start their ascent near the statue of the Madonna.
Take a boat out to Kismul Castle in Castlebay. The stronghold was built in 1039 and is impressively surrounded by water. Buy your tickets at the Tourist Board and then cross the road to the pier where you will find a magnetic sign. Moving the sign to reveal the orange square will alert the boat crew who will then ferry you across to the castle.
Enjoy some peace and quiet. The population of Barra is less than 1,500 so you should be able to find some space all to yourself to enjoy the views, the wildlife and the fresh air. Castlebay is the most heavily populated area, but a short walk in any direction will take you to quieter parts. You may find yourself alone on a beach with no one in sight save the many sheep and cows that inhabit the island.
