2024 Outer Hebrides – Fuzzy Water

Day 02 Saturday 17th Aug Ferry to Barra and “@croft183”

The forecast was not looking promising for the sunny golden sands of the west coast but at least the ferries were not cancelled. We all met up in Oban and stocked up in Tesco`s and discussed the plans in the cafe. The ferry was full and we were very glad that we had booked, as many others were all scrabbling for any standby places. It was great to head out through the Sound of Mull and we reminisced about the 2022 Scotland trip around Mull and tried to spot the 5 star beaches and key places along the way.

After 4 or so hours we drew into Castlebay and were soon unloaded and driving on the “A” roads on the island (these were single-track roads with regular passing places). The plan was to drive onto Vatersay and check out the camping opportunities and beaches. While there was camping on the peninsular, the forecast was for strong winds and being a large group of 10 with 9 tents to pitch other options were sought.

We checked out the campsite options and after a quick phone call we opted for a sheltered site on the East of Barra, Barra Holidays @croft183. This proved ideal and had the use of two kitchens and well-appointed showers and facilities.

It was now 6 pm but we wanted to take a walk along the beaches on either side of the peninsular and visit the only shop on Vatersay, “Piece of Cake Honesty Box”. The small hamlet reminded me of the post-war prefabs and a definite step back in time to the 1960`s.

After observing the impressive surf on the west coast we returned to the cars and drove the short distance to our home for the next few nights at @croft183.