A cyclist’s dream with a full coastal circuit. Inland is a remarkable watery landscape of wildlife-filled peat bogs and black freshwater lochs whilst the west coast is bordered by miles of machair and sandy beaches with stunning views across to the Monach Islands and St Kilda. Watch the large short-eared owls hunt during the day, see the vast numbers of birds at Balranald Reserve or escape on the wild tidal beach of Traigh Bhalaigh. There’s plenty of sustenance en-route – my favourites being the characterful Westford Inn and the Hebridean Smokehouse. If ancient history sets your pulse racing, there are several prehistoric sites including the huge chambered burial cairn of Barpa Langais.
Details of a fabulous cycling circuit (or drive) around North Uist describing all the points of interest on the way can be found in the book Islandeering: adventures around the outside edge of Britain’s hidden islands
