The best walks and hikes around South Uist

Yes, the western side of the island, with its flat machair and sandy beaches, is perfect for families. A great option is the Eriskay Ferry Terminal – Eriskay Beach loop from Balla. It's an easy 3-mile (4.8 km) walk on the nearby island of Eriskay, which is connected by a causeway, and explores its beautiful beaches.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, but it's crucial to be responsible. The machair and hills are grazing areas for sheep and cattle, so you must keep your dog on a lead, especially during lambing season (spring). Also, be aware of ground-nesting birds from April to July and keep your dog under close control to avoid disturbing them.

The eastern coast offers a rugged and challenging hiking experience, contrasting sharply with the gentle west. The hills, like Beinn Mhòr and Hecla, are steep and heather-clad with less defined paths. These routes demand good navigation skills and fitness, rewarding hikers with incredible panoramic views over the island's lochs and the Hebridean sea.

South Uist's west coast is famous for its nearly continuous 20-mile stretch of white sandy beaches backed by the machair. For a route that combines the coast with local history, try the Daliburgh Beach – Cladh Hallan Roundhouses loop from Garryheillie. This moderate walk offers beautiful sea views and a visit to Bronze Age archaeological sites.

While South Uist is not known for extensive forests, you can find a lovely woodland walk at Arinaban Woodland. A local crofter has planted over 100,000 trees and created pathways here. It's a unique spot on the island, offering sheltered walking with great views and opportunities to see otters in the nearby loch.

South Uist is a wildlife haven. On coastal and machair walks, look for seabirds and waders. The eastern sea lochs, like Loch Eynort and Loch Skipport, are fantastic places to spot otters and sea eagles. You might also encounter golden eagles in the hills and the famous, friendly Eriskay ponies.

Yes, the island is rich in history. The Aileach Hebridean Birlinn – Kildonan Museum loop from Kildonan is an easy walk that takes you past the Kildonan Museum, which details the area's past. You can also incorporate visits to the Bronze Age roundhouses at Cladh Hallan or the standing stones scattered across the island into many walks.

The Hebridean Way, a long-distance route, runs the length of South Uist, offering a fantastic way to experience the island's diverse landscapes. The walking route guides you along the scenic west coast on the machair, providing a gentle and immersive journey through this unique environment. It's well-signposted and can be broken into shorter sections.

The weather in the Outer Hebrides can change very quickly. Always pack waterproof and windproof clothing, even on a sunny day. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential, as trails can be boggy. Also bring a map, a compass or GPS, and plenty of water and snacks. In summer, midge repellent is highly recommended.

The hiking routes around South Uist are highly regarded by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the dramatic contrast between the rugged eastern mountains and the serene western coastline. The sense of solitude and the abundance of wildlife are also commonly highlighted as major attractions.

For a taste of the eastern hills without committing to a major summit, the View Across Loch Aineort – View from Beinn Bheag Dheass loop from Bornish is an excellent choice. It's a short, 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike that still provides the rewarding feeling of a hill ascent and offers beautiful views over the sea lochs.

Parking is generally available at the start of popular trails, but it's often informal and limited to small roadside areas, such as at the Beinn Mhor Trailhead. Do not expect large car parks or extensive facilities like cafes and toilets at most trailheads. It's best to plan ahead and use facilities in villages like Lochboisdale or Daliburgh before you set off.