The Best Road Trip Guide to Tarbert, Isle Of Harris

Tarbert, Isle of Harris. Andrew Wilson

Hey, ho! Pack your campervan with essentials, and hit the road, for we’re venturing off on a brand new Outer Hebrides campervan road trip. Before you set off on this incredible journey, make sure to book one of the welcoming campsites in Outer Hebrides to secure your perfect base for island exploration. Today, we set our sights and GPS for Tarbert, a lovely ferry port and the hub of Harris, forming part of the beautiful Outer Hebrides. Not only does Tarbert serve as the administrative centre of Harris, but it is situated at the narrow isthmus that connects the eastern and western parts of the island. Take the A87 from our previous roadtrip to the North Isle of Lewis, to Tarber, which takes around 9 hours to complete via road and ferry.

• The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides

Tarbert is a dramatic and beautiful island of mountains and beaches. Tucked in the valley where North and South Harris meet, the town sits with the grand backdrop of the mountains. It serves as a transport hub for the island, with a lovely natural harbour perfect for relaxing strolls and picturesque views of the water and the enclosing hills.

• Tarbert Isle of Harris Road Trip Itinerary
• How to Get to Isle of Harris?
• Best Tarbert Isle of Harris Campsites
• Campsites Near in Tarbert, Isle of Harris
• Campervan Hire Towns in Tarbert, Isle of Harris
• A Cheerio to Tarbert

Tarbert Isle of Harris Road Trip Itinerary

Tarbert. Reading Tom

Tarbert Castle, known for its links with Robert the Bruce and the early days of Scottish independence, traces its history back to King Alexander II, who likely commissioned the construction of the castle. King Robert the Bruce, realising the strategic importance of the isthmus, set about restoring the existing castle. The surrounding landscape's views are stunning and well worth the hike up from the harbour via the waymarked steps to the castle. Longer walks are also available for readers who want to soak in the sights and explore local settlements, like the long walk to Skipness. There are shorter walks, too, including the stroll to the end of Pier Road, which rewards walkers with access to a beautiful shell beach.

Make Tarbert, Isle of Harris your home base with campervan hire Outer Hebrides services, allowing you to wake up close to these incredible trails and beaches. There are several other beautiful walking routes on the Isle of Harris, and walking here guarantees fantastic scenery and easy access. Easy walks like the route from Traigh an Iar Beach Walk lead to a beautiful white sand beach that is perfect for lounging, strolling, and picnicking. Keep an eye out for wildlife, like the elusive corncrake, and in the summer months, enjoy gorgeous vistas of blooming wildflowers, including rare orchids. The waters have dangerous undercurrents that have surprised even the strongest swimmers. Huisinis Beach, with a newly added Visitor Centre, is perfect for swimming and taking your canines on long walks. After a good walk, dip in one of the prettiest beaches in the UK and enjoy a picnic on the sand. Plenty of beautiful routes to explore on foot, including the walks around the Isle of Taransay and Scalpay Lighthouse.

While ambling around, take a tour of the Isle of Harris Distillery, sip on some Isle of Harris gin, and enjoy the warmth of a peat fire - a true Outer Hebirdian welcome. Visit local shops and weavers to learn about the traditional craft of Harris Tweed. Many stores offer guided tours showcasing the weaving process and the history of the iconic fabric. Make your way to Loomshed Brewery to stock up on Hebridean craft beers, which pair perfectly with a gorgeous sunset. In the last few years, The Hebridean Cycleway has grown in popularity, especially for those who enjoy quiet roads, sweeping views, and being away from it all. Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the scenery, winding along the rugged coastline lapped by turquoise seas and through wind-swept springs.

Carry Farm

Carry Farm

Kames, Argyll and Bute

Kames, Argyll and Bute

Derek and Fiona welcome all guests at their spacious, well-loved, and beautifully maintained 66-acre coastal smallholding on a lovely patch of land. Carry Farm rests on the west coast of Scotland in Argyll.

If the surrounding islands look enticing enough for a visit, hop on a boat and explore uninhabited islands like Pabbay, Scarp and St. Kilda, famed for stunning landscapes and isolation. Take your binoculars to spot seabirds and wildlife, especially if you're heading to the Shiant Islands, home to colonies of puffin and razorbills. There are boat services to Shiants, Taransay, Scarp, and Loch Seaforth, and full cruises gliding east to west, hugging the curve of the Harrist coastline. If you prefer staying on Harris, make the most of the glittering ocean to fish, kayak, or paddleboard.

The settlement itself offers a wide range of amenities, including a tourist information point, a post office, and banking, as well as access to a range of locations around the Hebrides. These activities, paired with the stunning beauty of the Isle of Harris, make a stop at its capital, Tarbert, a must for an Outer Hebridian escape.

How to Get to Isle of Harris?

There are a number of ways to get to the Isle of Harris and Lewis in your campervan. There are three ports of entry to the Isle of Harris, with ferries travelling there all days of the week. Take the ferry from Uig on Skye, which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, offering direct access to the island. Hop on a ferry from Ullapool to Stornoway and drive south. The ferry, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. From Stornoway, it's around a 45-minute drive to Harris. Alternatively, add Harris as a stepping stone and make your way from Barra through South Uist and North Uist to Leverburgh. Campervan spaces on the ferry can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season, so book your ferry in advance. Taking a campervan to the Isle of Harris is a great way to explore the island's stunning landscapes, beaches, and cultural attractions at your own pace.

Lochranza Campsite

Lochranza Campsite

Isle Of Arran, Ayrshire

Isle Of Arran, Ayrshire

Lochranza Campsite rests amid stunning coastal and majestic mountain scenery in the stunning Isle of Arran. Nestled in the island's north end, the campsite is handily positioned close to the ferry crossing in the Kintyre peninsula, making it easy to reach from the ferry sailing in from Ayrshire. Look forward to a warm welcome and comfortable base to call your home away from home.

Best Tarbert Isle of Harris Campsites

Tarbert. Reading Tom

If you’re wondering where to park your campervan for the night, there are plenty of different camping sites with excellent facilities and stunning views of the surroundings. The island also has plenty of designated overnight parking spots, often community-operated, with plenty of facilities available. However, we recommend parking at a Tarbert campsite to minimise the impact left on the environment. Stay at the Isle of Lewis, North Shawbost, or Na Hearadh agus Ceann a Deas nan Loch. We’ll explore the attractions you can add to your Tarbert campervan road trip itinerary when you book a campsite at our suggested locations.

Isle of Lewis campsites are perfect for a Scottish island escape, from unforgettable wildlife adventures on land and sea to fascinating historical and cultural attractions. It is one of the most beautiful parts of the Hebrides and the island's most northerly point. Potter around the Callanish Stones are older than Stonehenge and as mysterious as ever. Follow the Bridge To Nowhere or explore the stunning interiors of Lews Castle, home to Lord Leverhulme, who purchased the abode, equipped it with electricity and heating, and had many grand dances. Visit sites like The Carloway Broch, an Iron Age structure constructed as a means of defence, and walk through the restored stone houses with thatched roofs at Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. Take the A859 south from Stornoway (the island’s main town) to Tarbert on the Isle of Harris. There’s so much to see and quick access to a wealth of Hebridean delights. For more camping options, check out our campsites in Gairloch, campsites in Lochinver, campsites in Ullapool and campsites in Dundonnell.

Leachive Caravan Site

Leachive Caravan Site

Lochgilphead, Argyll and Bute

Lochgilphead, Argyll and Bute

The small, family-run Leachive Caravan Site rests on the waterfront in the beautiful fishing village of Tayvallich. These magnificent settings are ideal for a memorable vacation filled with hours of walking, cycling, horse-riding, fishing, exploring, and relaxing.

Toddle over to Tarbert with ease from your campsite in North Shawbost and spend a glorious holiday enjoying Bahama-esque vibes while holidaying with the UK. Shawbost Beach is perhaps the most popular attraction with sun worshippers, swimmers, and kids. The horseshoe beach is perfect for swimming with safe and calm waters, and there are excellent amenities for guests, including parking, a picnic area, and a birdwatching interpretation board for naturalists of all ages. Nature lovers can also hike along the rugged coastline or visit Loch na Muilne, a tranquil spot for birdwatching. Nearby is another fantastic stretch of coastline - Dalmore Beach, known for its dramatic waves and scenic beauty. History buffs can also explore the Shawbost Norse Mill and Kiln, a restored historical site showcasing traditional grain milling techniques. If you’d like to stay in the area, take a peek at our campsites in Wester Ross, campsites in Kinlochbervie and campsites in Elphin.

Our campsites at Na Hearadh agus Ceann a Deas nan Loch are well-positioned for exploring various attractions. To reach Tarbert, take the ferry from Uig, Isle of Skye, arriving in about 1 hour 40 minutes, or from Ullapool to Stornoway, a 45-minute drive from Harris. To make it your base for an Outer Hebrides road trip, visit Luskentyre Beach, famed for its turquoise waters and white sands. St. Clement's Church in Rodel is a delight for adventurers who enjoy rich history and stunning architecture. Seilebost Beach and Northton Temple are also scenic highlights, while the Harris Tweed shops plus the Isle of Harris Distillery add a taste of culture to your holiday. Browse through 17 campsites within 30 miles of Na Hearadh agus Ceann a Deas nan Loch, or find more campsites in the Isle Of Harris, campsites in North Uist, campsites in Portree and campsites in Liniclate.

Carradale Bay Caravan Park

Carradale Bay Caravan Park

Carradale, Argyll and Bute

Carradale, Argyll and Bute

For a relaxing holiday set out by arguably the best beach in Kintyre Peninsular pack in your camping essentials and head over to the scenic Carradale Bay Caravan Park.

Campsites Near in Tarbert, Isle of Harris

Now that you have a rough plan of what you’d like to see during your campervan road trip to Tarbert, it’s time to look at the best campsites to rest your head after a day of sightseeing. Campsites on the island are lowkey, often rest in spectacular locations, and offer basic facilities, if not more. We recommend staying at Horgabost Campsite, Lickisto Blackhouse Camping, and Minch View Touring Park. Not only will you help preserve the environment, but these campsites enjoy fine ocean views and offer oodles of peace with spacious and well-spaced pitches - something you’re unlikely to find at designated overnight stops with little to no amenities. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.

Horgabost Campsite in Isle Of Harris

Horgabost Campsite, Isle Of Harris

Nestled on the stunning Isle of Harris, Horgabost Campsite promises an unforgettable camping experience surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Pitch your tent or park your camper just steps from a pristine white-sand beach, where the turquoise waters gently lap the shire and create the feel of being away from it all. The campsite boasts excellent facilities, including clean shower blocks, washing areas, and a cosy communal kitchen, perfect for cooking a hearty meal after a day of adventure. Nearby, the Isle of Harris is a treasure trove of attractions. Explore the dramatic landscapes of the Harris Mountains, a hotspot for hiking enthusiasts, or visit the famous Harris Tweed shops to learn about traditional craftsmanship. Don’t miss lazy days basking in the sun at Luskentyre Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets. This is a simple site, so expect no Wi-Fi or electric metres - it’s a switch your phone off and forget the modern world kind of campsite.

Lickisto Blackhouse Camping in Isle Of Harris

Lickisto Blackhouse Camping, Isle Of Harris

Lickisto Blackhouse Camping is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Set against dramatic hills and sweeping coastlines, this campsite features cosy yurts, bell tents, and a beautiful bothy. Tent campers can pitch in a secluded and private location with access to the ocean, abundant wildlife, and roomy grass pitches. Campervans and motorhomes can kick back amid picturesque surroundings on hardstanding bases. Guests share access to communal Blackhouses equipped with cooking facilities plus well-maintained washrooms. Explore the stunning beaches of Scarista and Luskentyre, renowned for their powdery sands and turquoise waters—ideal for swimming or simply soaking up the sun. Hike through the enchanting landscapes of the rugged mountains, or take a scenic drive to visit local distilleries and sample the island's famed whisky.

Minch View Touring Park in Isle Of Harris

Minch View Touring Park, Isle Of Harris

Minch View Touring Park enjoys spectacular views and is a great base for camping near the Tarbert ferry. The site has spacious pitches for tents and touring vehicles, clean shower facilities, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Just a stone’s throw away, the idyllic beaches of Tarbert and Hushinish beckon with the promise of sunbathing or beachcombing. Adventure seekers can hike the wild trails of the nearby mountains, where panoramic vistas are around every turn. Don’t miss the chance to visit the charming village of Tarbert, where you can discover local shops and indulge in delicious seafood at cosy restaurants. Minch View Touring Park is a beautiful base for quiet, unpretentious camping.

Campervan Hire Towns in Tarbert, Isle of Harris

Tarbert. Puffin11k

The Isle of Harris is a stunning destination, and nothing will quite prepare you for the jaw-dropping beauty and unforgettable experiences. Hire a campervan in Tarbert, explore 5,000-year-old standing stone, uncover remote areas with abundant wildlife, and fall in love with Scotland’s untamed coastline. Harris also boasts some of the best beaches in the world, and there’s nothing quite like driving around at your pace, enthralled by the sheer beauty of these gorgeous islands. If you plan to combine a visit to Tarbert with escapes to other locations on the Hebrides, why not hire a campervan in Point or Stornoway and say goodbye to the complexities of the modern world? Read on for our campervan recommendations in the area. Visit our main page for more campervan hire in UK.

Hire a campervan in Point and discover various exciting attractions and activities, all a short drive away. Rumble to Tiumpan Head Lighthouse, a fantastic spot for wildlife watching, including dolphins, whales, and seabirds, with sweeping sea views. Explore the historic Garrabost Mill for insights into the island's traditional crofting lifestyle. Stretch your legs on coastal paths, including routes to secluded beaches and rugged cliffs with beautiful views of the Atlantic. Discover the ruins of the mediaeval St Columba's Church and the Aignish Memorial to look at the struggles of the islanders while learning local history. Speak to private owners, and hire campervans in North Shawbost, campervans in Wester Ross, campervans in Lochinver and campervans in Ullapool.

Ford Campervan in Glasgow

Ford Campervan in Glasgow

Price Per Day: £70 in June, £90 in July, £90 in August.

Age: 21-79

Travel: Uk and Europe

Gearbox: Manual

Gorgeous Ford sleeps adults and will also travel people. This layout is built for the off-road family life, offering a Skyline Elevating Roof bed, plus daytime seating that converts to a further double bed at night.

Stornoway, the vibrant capital of the Isle of Lewis, is an excellent launchpad for your campervan adventure. With its stunning coastal scenery and rich Gaelic culture, this charming town enjoys effortless access to breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems. Renting a campervan in Stornoway provides access to the rugged beauty of the Outer Hebrides. The town is well-equipped with shops, eateries, and essential services to ensure the start of your journey is smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re craving a cruise along pristine beaches or wondering about wandering to ancient standing stones, starting your campervan adventure in Stornoway guarantees a thrilling experience. For more options, check out our campervans for hire in Isle of Lewis, campervan hire in Isle Of Harris, campervan hire in Gairloch and campervan hire in Dundonnell.

A Cheerio to Tarbert

Tarbert Bay. Reading Tom

As our unforgettable campervan road trip to Tarbert draws close, we can take home memories of breathtaking landscapes, warm local hospitality, and the freedom of adventuring with our flexible itinerary. From coastal campsites on the beach to convenient campervan hire locations, our Tarbert road trip itinerary is perfect for campervan adventures. Lounge on stunning beaches, hike craggy mountains and embrace the rich culture. Stay tuned for our next blog, where we’ll explore Lochmaddy and the mesmerising Isle of North Uist. Join us as we continue our journey through the captivating beauty of the Outer Hebrides on our The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides.