Season: spring
This north west facing beach sits at the top of Great Bernera island, which itself is accessed via a road bridge. As well as being a beautiful, pristine strand, it features a reclaimed Iron Age Mill at the back of the beach. This was discovered in the sand after a fierce storm and is now a popular visitor attraction.
A view from the back of the beach at Bostadh.
Between the two beaches here at high tide.
Season: spring
Traigh Mhor is the beach that provides the runway for Barra’s airport. Its English translation from the Gaelic is “Big Beach”, just as well. An orange windsock warns of planes’ imminent arrival. The machair behind the beach is also a riot of wild primroses in late spring and it’s deceptively peaceful here, particularly at low tide. Traigh Mhor is popular with cockle pickers too.
What the beach means to skipper Donald John (DJ), on the ferry between Eriskay and Ardmhor, by Traigh Mhor.
The ferry approaches Ardmhor, with a view of Traigh Mhor.
The scene at Traigh Mhor beach.
Season: summer
Located in the north eastern corner of Skye, Staffin Bay is bordered by the crofting strips that used to be commonplace in such parts of Scotland. There’s older history too, with fossilised dinosaur footprints visible at low tide. The spectacular Quiraing dominates the skyline beside the bay and the beach. There are excellent and atmospheric walks to The Prison and The Needle nearby, great for climbing. This is a relatively unspoilt corner of a popular island.
What the beach means to Michael.
Low tide at Staffin Bay.
Season: spring
It’s well worth the trip down the bay side lane at Staffin Bay when the tide is out. Firstly, there’s a soft, volcanic sandy beach to enjoy, studded with rounded and sparkling boulders. There’s evidence of a Stone Age dwelling here too and the eagle-eyed can spot fossilised dinosaur footprints in the rocky shelf of the beach by the low tide mark. With the beguiling Quiraing as a backdrop, it’s easy to feel that you’ve slipped back to distant times.
A simple testimony from Andreas.
The beach at Staffin Bay.
Season: summer
Staffin Bay has one of the few sandy beaches on Skye. Looking out across The Minch to Staffin Island, there are fine views and you can take boat trips to see the seals offshore. The Trotternish Peninsula features stunning mountain walks in this area, with evocative names such as The Quiraing and The Prison, located in the hills behind Staffin village, the beach and its bay. The gentle shelf of the beach makes this a family friendly option, ideal for days out and paddling.
Prospects that include the beach.
A view from above Staffin Bay in the morning.
