Isle of contrasts
Although only 21 miles and six miles wide, South Uist is an island of striking contrasts. The western coast consists mainly of sandy beaches that are sandwiched between the Atlantic Ocean and swathes of dunes and machair - fertile, low-lying grassy plains that characterise the region. On the east side are mountains, with Beinn Mhor scaling heights of over 600 metres. Breaking up the eastern half are three bodies of water, Loch Skipport, Loch Eynort and Loch Boisdale, which penetrate deep inland.
Lochboisdale
The island's main village, Lochboisdale, is located in narrow eastern headland and is ideal for ferry trips to Oban, Barra and Tiree. Once a major herring port, Lochboisdale still has a significant fishing industry, predominantly focussed on the sea. However, Loch Boisdale too is rich with wild brown trout, sea trout and salmon.
Journey into antiquity
South Uist has been inhabited for over 6,000 years and an excellent way to explore both the terrain and the history of the island is to take a guided walk in the company of an archaeological expert. Discover medieval chapels, Norse farmsteads, Iron Age brochs (hollow-walled structures), Neolithic tombs and the ruins of Ormacleit Castle, built in the early 18th century. And in Kildonan, a stark stone monument marks the birthplace of Flora MacDonald, a heroine of the Jacobite rising of 1745 who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie evade capture.
Links to the Past
Askernish Golf Club is considered to be one of the finest links golf courses in the world, and certainly one of the most natural. Sports Illustrated described the course as "closer to a perfect ten than any other." The course was first laid out in 1891 and has been restored to its former glory. Descend through centuries-old dunes as you play through the course.
Eating and drinking
Lochboisdale Café is an allergy-friendly coffee shop that serves breakfast, brunch, sandwiches and fresh ice cream. Owned by the employees, Hebridean Jewellery sells its own handmade gemstones and is a popular café serving home-cooked food including soup, freshly baked bread, salad, pasta dishes, cakes and fresh coffee. Making the most of fresh local produce, Kildonan Café offers a good range of food including soups such as traditional Scotch broth, fresh smoked salmon sandwiches, scones and cakes, and lashings of coffee.
Shopping
The island has a scattering of small shops and galleries selling jewellery, soap, artwork and other handmade items. With Harris a close neighbour to the north, you'll find places selling the famous tweed that originates from that island. Daliburgh and Creagorry each have a supermarket and there are shops selling essentials dotted about the island. Salmon and shellfish are sold widely on South Uist, and Lochcarnan is home to Salar Salmon's factory shop.
