Our Outer Hebrides Wild Swimming Series: Barra and Vatersay
If you’re seeking an invigorating dip followed by a hearty warm-up, Barra and Vatersay are your perfect playground. These southern gems of the Outer Hebrides boast some of the most stunning, crystal-clear waters imaginable – perfect for wild swimming – with charming local spots to dry out at afterwards.
Whether you’re wild camping or meandering in a motorhome, this guide is designed not only to highlight our favourite swim spots, but also some places you can experience some good old Hebridean hospitality!
This is the last of our Hebridean Wild Swimming series (having already visited Lewis & Harris and The Uists), and we can’t wait to share some of the most pristine, untouched and almost otherworldly beaches with you – they’re perfect for a mid-drive detour!
So, grab your swimming trunks, your fluffiest towel, and let’s dive into the best of Barra and Vatersay’s wild swimming scene!
Getting To The Outer Hebrides
So, how do you reach this island paradise? Well, getting to the Outer Hebrides is part of the adventure!
The most popular way is by ferry, operated by CalMac. You can sail from Ullapool on the Scottish mainland directly to Stornoway, Lewis.
Alternatively, you can come from the Isle of Skye, using either the ferry route from Uig to Tarbert on Harris, or over to Lochmaddy on North Uist. These journeys offer stunning views as you approach the islands, and also allow you to explore Skye if you have time!
Alternatively, for those short on time, you can fly! Stornoway, Benbecula, and Barra all have airports. Barra’s beach runway is truly unique – planes land on the sand at low tide!
Whichever way you choose, a warm island welcome awaits.
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Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
The Best Wild Swim Spots
Prepare for breathtaking scenery and a refreshing embrace from the Atlantic. Remember, safety first: check tide times, water conditions, and always be mindful of local currents.
1. Eoligarry Beach, Barra
A true Barra icon!
This magnificent stretch of white sand, often overlooked for its more famous neighbour (Traigh Mhòr), offers calmer waters for swimming, especially on a sunny day. The views across the Sound of Barra to Eriskay are simply stunning, and you might even spot an otter fishing in the shallows!
It’s one of our favourite spots, easily accessible and offers plenty of space for a post-swim picnic!
2. Traigh Eais, Barra (opposite Traigh Mhòr)
You can’t visit Barra without experiencing Traigh Eais – on the opposite side of the narrow isthmus from the world’s only commercial airport where planes land on the beach!
The expanse of sand and sea is genuinely awe-inspiring. With seemingly endless blue skies above, white sands stretching away and crystal clear water rippling before you, you may be wondering if you have accidentally teleported to the Caribbean!
After your dip, lie back on the sand and keep an eye out for planes coming in to land next door!
3. Traigh Shiar, Vatersay
Vatersay’s western beach is a showstopper. Traigh Shiar means “west beach,” and it lives up to its name with sweeping views out to the Atlantic.
The water here is crystal clear, shimmering in a variety of shades of blue and green. It’s a fantastic spot for a proper swim, with plenty of sheltered areas closer to the shore.
The sense of solitude here is profound, making it feel like your own private paradise – we recommend enjoying a serene paddle as the sun sets!
4. Traigh a Bheagh, Vatersay
Nestled on the east side of Vatersay, Traigh a Bheagh offers a slightly more sheltered experience than its western counterpart.
The beach is a beautiful curve of sand, perfect for a gentler dip. The views back towards Barra are lovely, and the water is often a little warmer and calmer in the summer. It’s an excellent spot for families or those looking for a less exposed swim!
5. Bàgh A’Deas (Vatersay Bay), Vatersay
We mentioned Bàgh A’Deas earlier for its picturesque beauty, and it absolutely deserves a spot on our wild swimming list.
This stunning double-sided bay boasts brilliant white sands and unbelievably turquoise waters. You can choose your side depending on the wind, but either way, you’re in for a treat. It’s a genuinely iconic Hebridean swimming experience, postcard-perfect and utterly invigorating.
Warm-Up Wonders: Cafes, Eateries & Museums
After an exhilarating dip in the bracing Hebridean waters, there’s nothing better than a warm cuppa, a hearty meal, or a fascinating cultural immersion to warm you from the inside out!
1. Cafe Kisimul, Castlebay, Barra
Located in the heart of Castlebay, Cafe Kisimul is a welcoming haven. Famous for its delicious fresh seafood, hearty lunches, and excellent coffee, it’s the perfect spot to refuel after a wild swim.
The views across the bay to Kisimul Castle are a bonus, offering a picturesque backdrop to your post-swim comfort food. Don’t miss their homemade cakes!
2. The Barra Airport Cafe, Eoligarry, Barra
Yes, the airport has a cafe, and it’s surprisingly delightful! After your unique swim at Traigh Eais, pop into the small but perfectly formed airport building for a hot drink and a snack. It’s a fantastic spot to watch planes land and take off (when operational) and offers a unique insight into this incredible island infrastructure.
It’s cosy, convenient, and provides a real sense of perspective.
3. Castlebay Hotel, Castlebay, Barra
For a more substantial warm-up, the Castlebay Hotel offers a cosy bar and restaurant with traditional hospitality.
Enjoy a warming bowl of Cullen Skink (a creamy smoked haddock soup), fresh local produce, and a dram of whisky by a crackling fire. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and share stories of your wild swimming adventures.
4. Vatersay Community Hall Cafe, Vatersay
If you’ve been exploring Vatersay’s incredible beaches, the community hall often hosts a small, volunteer-run cafe during peak season. It’s a fantastic place to grab a cup of tea or coffee, a homemade scone, and experience genuine local warmth.
This community hub also provides an opportunity to chat with islanders and learn more about life on Vatersay. Check their opening hours, as they may vary depending on the season.
5. Barra Heritage & Cultural Centre (Dualchas), Castlebay, Barra
If you’re looking for a cultural warm-up, the Barra Heritage & Cultural Centre is a treasure trove. Discover the island’s rich history, from ancient crofting traditions to maritime legends.
It’s a fantastic way to spend an hour or two, learning about the people and traditions that shape Barra, all while staying toasty and dry. They often have a small shop with local crafts, perfect for picking up a unique souvenir.
Our Wild Swimming Series – Some Final Thoughts!
So, there you have it – your guide to wild swimming and warming up on the truly magical islands of Barra and Vatersay. Thank you for reading, and we hope this series has inspired you to plan your own tour of the glorious Western Isles!
Embrace the elements, hop into those turquoise waters, and then treat yourself to the Hebridean hospitality that makes these islands so special. Whether it’s coffee and cake, soup and a sandwich, a cultural tour, or pints with the locals, make sure you treat yourself after your bracing swim (or at least for dipping your toes in!).
Remember, wherever you end up in the Outer Hebrides, whether it be the rugged beaches of Harris, the serene shores of North Uist or the pristine sands of Barra, dive in – make it an adventure you won’t soon forget!
Useful Links
- CalMac Ferries – book in advance for easy inter-island access.
- Visit Outer Hebrides – for what’s on and where to go!
- Visit Scotland (Outer Hebrides) – general tourist information.
- Traffic Scotland – check traffic and route changes.
- Met Office – for the weather!
- Highlands 2 Hammocks (That’s us!) – Click here for our online shop, other blogs and brand-new luxury campervan service!
