Uist's name is thought to come from the Norse for 'west', having been settled by the Vikings and part of the Kingdom of the Isles

North Uist, seen from above, is a patchwork of lochans, peatland, sandy beaches and intricate coastline. The island’s diverse landscape and sparse population supports fantastic wildlife, from delicate wildflowers to soaring eagles. There is a small population with a rich culture, and you are sure to receive a warm welcome here during your stay.

Sailing to the Hebrides from Skye, visitors land in Lochmaddy, the largest town on North Uist. This small town of just 300 inhabitants has peaceful atmosphere today, but the earliest written mention of it refers to it as a place of “piracie and murder”, complaining that it was a place of rendezvous for pirates. The complex coastline, full of coves and inlets, was perhaps the ideal place for hiding ships stocked with contraband fine goods bound for Clan Chiefs. The village is relatively uneventful today – but a visit to the Taigh Chearsabhagh Museum & Arts Centre is well worth your time.

The beaches of North Uist and Berneray will rival the likes of Luskentyre and Scarista on Harris. Vast expanses of pristine white sand fringe turquoise waters – and you’ll often have them all to yourself! Port nan Long is especially beautiful, and at the right time of tide, ankle-deep water stretches out for hundreds of meters between the beach and the sea, making it perfect for small kids to play.

Like the other Hebridean islands, North Uist, Benbecula and Berneray feature archaeological sites giving a glimpse into the islands’ rich past. The remains of an iron-age wheelhouse – a circular building with internal walls radiating from the centre like the spokes of a wheel, unique to northern and western Scotland – can be seen at Grimsay on North Uist. The Udal Peninsula is described as one of the most important archaeological sites in Britain, and contains evidence of human habitation over 8,000 years surrounding the machair – a gaelic word for ‘fertile plain’.

Don’t miss a trip across to Bhalaigh (Vallay), a tidal island off North Uist’s northwest coast featuring fertile machair and white sand beaches, as well as the remains of Bhalaigh House and an ancient chapel.

The Outer Hebrides are packed with unparalleled landscapes, rare wildlife and a strong community spirit and culture, and North Uist, Benbecula and Berneray are no exception. If you’re looking for a mile-long beach all to yourself, fascinating archaeology and a tranquil atmosphere, head here.