The best walks and hikes around Scalpay
4.7
(73)
513
hikers
8
hikes
Hikes around Scalpay explore a compact island in the Outer Hebrides, connected to the Isle of Harris by a bridge. The landscape is composed of rugged coastline, open moorland, and numerous freshwater lochs. The terrain offers a mix of established paths and more varied ground, with low hills providing wide views across the water.
Best hiking trails around Scalpay
- The most popular hiking route is the A loop of Scalpay Island — Outer Hebrides, a 6.3 mile (10.2 km) trail that takes around 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This Scalpay circular walk follows the island's coastline and passes the Eilean Glas lighthouse.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Eilean Glas Lighthouse from Ceann a' Bhaigh — South Harris, an easy 3.3 mile (5.4 km) path. This is a direct route to the historic lighthouse on the island's eastern shore.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Rèinigeadal via Postman's Path — Isle of Harris, a 7.8 mile (12.6 km) trail leading through coastal and moorland scenery, often completed in about 4 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Scalpay is defined by its coastal paths, open moorland, and routes leading to historic sites like the Eilean Glas lighthouse. The network of trails provides options for both shorter walks and more moderate day hikes.
- The routes in Scalpay are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from 80 reviews. More than 500 hikers have used komoot to explore Scalpay's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.9
(24)
145
hikers
10.2km
02:45
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(26)
159
hikers
5.39km
01:27
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
25
hikers
12.6km
04:20
670m
670m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
18
hikers
2.61km
00:42
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
11
hikers
9.76km
03:17
510m
510m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Scalpay
Tips from the Community
Pleasant walk, either along the coast (with appropriate walking equipment) or on a passable path.
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Despite the information on the website, the café is open on sundays too. The owner loves to chat and the cakes are yummy. https://www.eileanglas.co.uk/your-visit
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Lochanan Lacasdail is a cluster of three interconnected freshwater lochs located on the southern coastline of North Harris. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, these lochs provide the perfect scene for hiking, boating and wildlife observation.
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The tiny hamlet of Molinginish is located on a small bay on Loch Trollamarig. It's only consists of a few houses, making it an extremely remote place to live. The scenery here is superb, so take a seat on the grassy hill and soak it all in.
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Postman's Path is a stunning pathway that zigzags over the spectacular coastline of Harris in Scotland's Outer Hebrides. The entire thing is a visual exhibition with scenes of mountains, rugged coastline, and still lochs throughout.
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Rhenigidale or Rèinigeadal is a tiny crofting township in Harris, in the Western Isles of Scotland. The village sits in the rugged hills of Harris near Loch Seaforth on the coast. There are sensational views over the Minch to Skye from here.
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Ceann a Bai is a small residence situated nearby to Lingerbay and Eilean Collam on the rocky southeast coast of Isle of Harris.
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A visit to the tea room at the lighthouse is a must, great home produced fayre, and hot drinks. All served up by the lady that has been there years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails on Scalpay suitable for dogs?
Yes, Scalpay's open landscapes are generally great for hiking with dogs. However, be aware of livestock grazing in the area and keep your dog under control, especially during lambing season in the spring. The terrain can be boggy, so ensure your dog is comfortable with wet and uneven ground.
What is the terrain like on the walks around Scalpay?
The terrain is a mix of rugged coastline, open moorland, and established paths. Many routes, particularly those heading towards the Eilean Glas lighthouse, can be very boggy and uneven underfoot. Waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended for most trails on the island.
Where can I park to start a hike on Scalpay?
There is a small car park at the end of the road in Ceann a' Bhaigh, known as the Heritage Walk Car Park. This is the primary starting point for the popular walks to the Eilean Glas Lighthouse. Space can be limited, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea.
Are there any easy, family-friendly walks on Scalpay?
Yes, there are several shorter and easier options suitable for families. For a gentle walk that still offers lovely scenery, consider the Laxadale Lochs loop. It's a relatively short and flat walk that provides a good taste of the island's inland loch landscape.
How long does it take to walk to the Eilean Glas Lighthouse?
The direct walk to the Eilean Glas Lighthouse and back from the car park at Ceann a' Bhaigh is approximately 3.3 miles (5.4 km). Most people complete this in about 1.5 to 2 hours, but you should allow extra time for photos and to enjoy the coastal views.
What kind of wildlife can I see while hiking on Scalpay?
Scalpay is a fantastic place for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for sea eagles, seals, and otters along the coast. In late spring and summer, the cliffs near the Eilean Glas Lighthouse are a good spot to see puffins and other sea birds.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Scalpay?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the sense of remoteness, and the historical interest of the Eilean Glas lighthouse.
Are there any challenging hikes on or near Scalpay?
Yes, for a more strenuous day out, the hike from Laxadale Lochs to Molinginish offers a significant challenge. This route involves considerable elevation gain and covers rough, remote terrain, rewarding experienced hikers with exceptional views and solitude.
When is the best time of year to hike on Scalpay?
Late spring and summer (May to August) are generally the best times to visit. You'll experience longer daylight hours and the best chance of seeing wildlife like puffins. The weather in the Outer Hebrides can be unpredictable year-round, so always be prepared for wind and rain.
Are there any shelters or facilities along the main hiking trails?
Facilities are very limited on the trails themselves. However, on the path to the lighthouse, you will pass the Scalpay Bothy (Tigh an Urrais), which is a small, basic shelter that is usually open for walkers to rest in. There are no shops or cafes outside of the main settlement.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from around Scalpay?
You can find nearly 10 curated hiking routes around Scalpay on komoot. These range from easy, short walks to more moderate day hikes, covering the island's varied landscapes of coastline, moorland, and lochs.
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