Scenic Motorhome Road Trip Through the Isle Of Benbecula

Isle of Benbecula. livingwiththew0lf

Welcome to another incredible adventure in the Outer Hebrides. We started our campervan road trip in Stornoway, the largest town and port in the Outer Hebrides. Next, we visited the Port of Ness, an interesting harbour. We made our way to the remote and rugged North Isle of Lewis before rumbling over to Tarbert, an idyllic gateway to the beautiful peninsula of Kintyre. From here, we explored the natural beauty of Loch Maddy and North Uist and made our way to Rushgarry, which has gorgeous beaches and abundant wildlife. The seventh stop on our Outer Hebrides road trip takes us to the beautiful Isle of Benbecula, a stunning location for nature lovers with a landscape that features serene beaches, wild moorlands, and tranquil lochs that mirror the sky. The Isle of Benbecula truly offers some of the most memorable experiences you'll find at campsites in Outer Hebrides.

Benbecula. Seonaidhboy

• The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides

Let’s help you on your way with a route of how to get to Benbecula. If you are heading to the island from Rushgarry to Benbecula, follow the quiet, winding roads south on the Isle of Berneray. You'll cross the causeway that links Berneray to North Uist, a scenic route with sweeping views of the sea and salt marshes. Continue onto Grimsay, a beautiful island, before reaching the causeway to Benbecula. The drive takes around an hour, depending on stops, and there is no need to take the ferry. Drive at a pace that allows you to admire Berneray's beaches' turquoise waters, North Uist's untamed beauty, and the quiet of Grimsay's fishing villages.

Isle of Benbecula. Wiebke_Wanderlust

• What is The History of Benbecula?
• Why is Benbecula Called The Dark Island
• Is Benbecula Worth Visiting?
• Camping in and around Isle of Benbecula
• Best Isle of Benbecula Campsites
• Campervan Hire Towns in Isle of Benbecula
• Bidding Adieu to Benbecula

What is The History of Benbecula?

The history of Benbecula is deeply rooted in Gaelic heritage and Norse influence. Initially inhabited by Neolithic settlers, the island became part of the Kingdom of Isles under Norse control before transitioning to Gaelic rule. In Gaelic, its name, "Beinn na Faoghla", means "Mountain of the Fords." The island also played a key role in the Jacobite Rising of 1745, as Bonnie Prince Charlie sought refuge on the island after the Battle of Culloden. Today, its cultural traditions endure, with Gaelic still widely spoken. The island's past is preserved in its ancient ruins and landscape, and we'll highlight the best attractions to see on a campervan road trip through the Isle of Benbecula.

Isle of Benbecula. Wiebke_Wanderlust

Why is Benbecula Called The Dark Island

Benbecula is often called the "Dark Island" and is associated with the hauntingly beautiful Scottish tune "The Dark Island," composed by Ain MacLachlan. The song captures the island's wild atmospheric beauty of the isle's mist-shrouded moors, brooding skies, and tranquil lochs.

Isle of Benbecula. Stella_Maris_Benbecula

Is Benbecula Worth Visiting?

Benbecula is absolutely worth a visit, and we've scoped out some of the best attractions on the island. You've come to the right place if you want scenery that blends Caribbean-esque beaches and brooding Game of Thrones vibes. The island is a tranquil place where you're literally away from it all, with crystal clear waters, lapping white sand beaches, and historic sites that speak volumes about the isle's rich history. Today, we'll dive into everything you need to know for your road trip around the island, including campervan hire options and scenic campsites that enjoy spectacular views. Without further ado, let's get adventuring!

Balivanich Beach. Themanfrommull

You could start your holiday by throwing your blanket down on a beautiful stretch of coastline, digging your toes into the sand, and enjoying the views. Cula Bay, a lovely beach with machair and wildlife, rests on the west coast. It is one of the best places to admire sunsets and listen to the sounds of various waders like oystercatchers, lapwing, dunlin, redshank and more. The beach is accessible via Nunton or Aird. Ballivanich Beach is another great stretch of shoreline between North Uist and South Uist. Famed for its pretty sandy shores, the beach is a peaceful spot to base yourself for an afternoon or a quiet sunset.

Try your hand at some fishing. The island is home to thriving populations of Brown Trout and Sea Trout. Bring your fishing gear and cast your line at East and West Loch Olabhat while admiring the beautiful scenery and the tranquil atmosphere. If horse riding is something you enjoy, take a ride along the white sandy beaches courtesy of the Uist Community Riding School.

There are plenty of open, scenic routes across moorland and along coastal paths, so why not hire a campervan with bike racks, dust off your walking boots, and explore the area the old-fashioned way? The serene waterways are ideal for paddling, so pack in your inflatable kayaks or hire one nearby.

Otters Edge Campground

Otters Edge Campground

Liniclate, Western Isles

Liniclate, Western Isles

Blend the thrills of beautiful white sand beaches, a lovely family-friendly atmosphere, and an intriguing history. You’ve got a splendid camping escape on the Island Of Benbecula at Otters Edge Campground.

The west coast of Benbecula has important historical attractions set against the beautiful backdrop of the sparkling sea. Tour the ruins of Borve Castle, built between 1344 and 1363, and was occupied by the Clanranald until the end of the Jacobite Rising in 1715. Perched dramatically on the coastline, the crumbling walls and strategic location make it easy to imagine former inhabitants partaking in grand dinners at sunset. Teampull Chaluim Chille (St Columba's Church) is a medieval church that reflects the isle's religious heritage and offers insight into early inhabitants. Nunton Steadings, linked to Bonnie Prince Charlie's escape, is well worth a visit and was his hiding place before embarking on his famous journey with the aid of Flora MacDonald. Benbecula also boasts traces of ancient settlements, including standing stones and burial cairns that give visitors a look at its Neolithic and Iron Age heritage. For some of the best scenery, climb Rueval Hill on the island's east side for breathtaking vistas. It is the highest point on Benbecula at 124 meters (407 feet), and though modest in height, it boasts panoramic views of the enclosing islands, lochs and coastline, making it a must-visit spot for walkers and nature lovers. Admire the neighbouring isles of North and South Uist, the Atlantic Ocean, and the wild beauty of the Outer Hebrides. The hill is relatively easy to climb, takes around 1 - 2 hours round trip, and one will see wildflowers, birds and even deer along the way.

Talla Na Mara

Talla Na Mara

Isle Of Harris, Western Isles

Isle Of Harris, Western Isles

What a splendid stay awaits you at Talla Na Mara, a stunning brand new site on the equally new Community Enterprise Centre, looking out across the white sand shores of Niseaboist Beach.

Hiring a campervan in Glasgow and travelling to Benbecula or the surrounding islands makes it easy to appreciate the beauty of the Outer Hebrides. We recommend hiring a campervan or motorhome with heating, even during the warmer summer months, to enjoy an off-the-beaten-track road trip. You can park up at beautiful campsites and spend the night in the great outdoors. For those keen to uncover every hidden corner of the Isle of Benbecula, a campervan hire Outer Hebrides escape offers the perfect blend of freedom and discovery.

Camping in and around Isle of Benbecula

Camping is a great means to explore Benbecula and the Outer Hebrides and reconnect with nature. We recommend finding campsites in Liniclate, Carinish and Grimsay. Not only are they under 15 minutes to Benbecula and its enticing beaches, but they are also great bases for exploring the rest of the Outer Hebrides with our comprehensive guide. Let’s dive into the attractions you can expect when camping at these spots. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in Uk.

Liniclate Beach. Donnellymhairi

While often overlooked, the small village of Liniclate on the west coast of Benbecula is a beautiful location to explore the island’s natural beauty. One of the biggest perks of setting up a tent or parking a campsite on Liniclate is its beautiful sandy beach, perfect for relaxing strolls, beachcombing and quiet picnics. If the weather refuses to play ball, head to the Sgoil Lionacleit Community Hub, which has a swimming pool, library and a sports centre perfect for family fun. Wander the fertile coastal grasslands rich in wildflowers and birdlife, stretching your feet on quiet walks, perhaps even stopping to snap a few pictures for the gram. Try watersports like paddling and kayaking, discover historical sites like Borve Castle, and spot otters and seals frolicking in the waters. If you want to spend a few more days in the area, check out our campsites in South Uist, campsites in Isle Of Barra and campsites in Isle Of Eigg.

The small village of Carinish is a fantastic base for a quiet campervan road trip packed with history and scenery. Stay at a campsite in Carinish, just 14 minutes from Benbecula, plus a wealth of exciting attractions. Explore the 13th-century ruins of Carinish Temple, a medieval church, or rumble off to discover battle sites and local history. Carinish was the base for the 1601 battle between the MacDonalds and MacLeods, and there are plenty of reminders of these turbulent times. Lace-up your walking shoes to explore the loch and moorlands around the settlement and spot wildlife like herons, waders, and otters in the waters and marshy areas. You can also use your campsite in Carinish as a base for exploring North Uist and the surrounding areas. Browse 32 campsites within 40 miles of Carinish and find more campsites in Isle of North Uist, campsites in Portree,and campsites in North Shawbost.

Horgabost Campsite

Horgabost Campsite

Isle Of Harris, Western Isles

Isle Of Harris, Western Isles

.The folk at Horgabost Campsite are well aware of the magnificent vistas and natural beauty on offer and extend a warm welcome to all camping folk keen to explore this stunning island's unique character and scenery.

Located just 14 minutes from Benbecula, Grimsay is a small island sandwiched between North Uist and Benbecula, offering adventuring types with a quiet base to recharge amid the charm and natural beauty of the Outer Hebrides. When you stay at a campsite in Grimsay, you’re within easy reach of scenic coastal walks winding past sheltered inlets and rocky shores, with stunning views of the Atlantic from places like Kallin Harbour. Learn about the island’s heritage of traditional boatbuilding, and pop in at the Grimsay Community Centre to celebrate local culture, crafts and history. Spot local wildlife from your pitch, like seabirds and waders, and sit down to Grimsay’s renowned shellfish, particularly scallops and lobsters. Browse our selection of 35 campsites within 40 miles of Grimsay or look for more campsites in North Uist, campsites in Isle of Harris, campsites in Isle of Lewis and campsites in Kyle of Lochalsh. When planning your camping adventure around the Isle of Benbecula, it's worth noting that you're perfectly positioned to explore the legendary campsites in Isle of Skye as well.

Grimsay. Visitouterhebrides

Best Isle of Benbecula Campsites

Benbecula and the Outer Hebrides boast endless beaches, rich wildlife, lively festivals and fascinating historic sites. There’s no end of breathtaking landscapes and we believe the best way to explore these gorgeous islands is by camping under the stars while enjoying the freedom to laze on your pitch or head out for outdoor activities and sightseeing that pique your interest. We’ve managed to pick out three beautiful campsites in Isle of Benbecula so that you can stay at one or all three campsites during your road trip to Benbecula. We recommend parking at Moorcroft Holidays, Balranald Hebridean Holidays, and the Tractor Shed Bunkhouse and Camping Huts. We’ll explore amenities and nearby attractions at each site below.

Moorcroft Holidays in Isle Of North Uist

Moorcroft Holidays, Isle Of North Uist

For a family-friendly atmosphere, enchanting views and stunning sunsets, you can’t go wrong at Moorcroft Holidays, a friendly, relaxed site perfectly positioned for exploring the Southern Isles from Berneray to Barra. Located an easy mile from the village of Carinish, this peaceful campsite rests on a working croft and looks out across a tidal strand with sweeping views of the hills in North Uist, South Uist and Benbecula. Come park your touring vehicle, pitch a tent or kick back in a small bunkhouse with twin rooms. All pitches are on hardstanding and come with 16 amp electric meters, with connections for tents provided by prior arrangement. Whether you’re a hiker on the Hebridean Way or a first-time visitor, you’ll love the personal touches at this beautiful campsite.

Balranald Hebridean Holidays in Isle Of North Uist

Balranald Hebridean Holidays, Isle Of North Uist

Located in the heart of the RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve, Balranald Hebridean Holidays is a lovely caravan and camping location mere meters from a beautiful sandy beach. Wake up to the trills, warbles and songs of wading and farmland birds in the flower-clad machair and croft land, intermingling with the gentle sound of the waves lapping the nearby shores. Keep your eyes peeled for Corncrakes and other species as you sit outside in the sunshine, and enjoy an alfresco breakfast whilst deciding what adventures to embark on post-meal. Work off your meal with a stroll to the beach and follow the circular walk around the bay, which brings you back along the road to the campsite. The site has grass and gravel bases, some with electric meters, plus a lovely, furnished pod for two, furnished with a kettle, microwave, eclectic heating and more. The office has a small shop, and the site welcomes pets.

The Tractor Shed Bunkhouse And Camping Huts in Isle Of North Uist

The Tractor Shed Bunkhouse And Camping Huts, Isle Of North Uist

Whether you are cycling to Stornoway or camping in a caravan, the Tractor Shed Bunkhouse and Camping Huts is a beautiful base for the holiday to Benbecula and the Outer Hebrides. Give traditional campervanning and tent camping a break and explore a quirky alternative with the luxuries of a well-equipped communal kitchen, full insulation for those colder days, camping chairs best plonked around the flickering campfire, and electricity. Stay in a beautiful pod crafted specially for guests exploring the Hebrides and Uist, and enjoy arguably the most powerful showers in the Hebrides. Bedding is included, and each pod enjoys its own views of the sea, distant mountains islands, croft land and nature. There is no minimum booking period, so it's perfect for overnight stops, and the abodes are pet-friendly, too.

Campervan Hire Towns in Isle of Benbecula

Campervan Hire is a fantastic way to explore the island and its scenery without worrying about check-in times, dining on bland food, or gazing out at uninspiring views. Use your campervan rental to wander as far as you please, or set up by picturesque locations, lean back in a camping chair and watch the world go by - the choice is entirely in your hands. Most campsites welcome guests to enjoy the thrills of alfresco meals courtesy of barbecue grills. Stargazing is all the better when you’re out in the open with a crackling campfire a few feet away. Not only are campervans a cost-effective means to getting around, but they also come with heaters and other mod cons, so you’re adventuring in a mini home - how wonderful. Check out our campervans in Sollas and Baleshare if you want to book a campervan in Isle of Benbecula. For those looking to extend their island adventure, campervan hire Isle of Skye offers a perfect way to discover more of Scotland’s dramatic scenery.

The crofting township of Sollas is a great base to kick off your Benbecula road trip. Hire a campervan in Sollas, and you’ll be close to fantastic beaches like Traigh Iar, a beautiful sandy stretch ideal for picnicking, walking, or simply enjoying the views of turquoise waters and the rolling dunes. Visit the RSPB Balranald Nature Reserve, a beautiful birdwatcher haven, and hike the beautiful Isle of North Uist. Wander from hills and glittering lochs to jagged coastal cliffs and historical sites like the prehistoric hillfort of Dun An Sticir. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing and other open-air pursuits, and visit local communities to taste authentic Gaelic culture. For more rentals nearby, check out our campervans in North Uist, campervans in Liniclate, campervans in South Uist, campervans in Isle Of Barra,and campervans in North Shawbost.

Isle of Benbecula. Crumble_Vanlife

Baleshare, a small island off the western coast of North Uist, is a great place to kick-start your campervan adventure in the Outer Hebrides. Start in true island style, unwinding on the shores of Baleshare Beach, famed for its sweeping sands, tranquil atmosphere and gorgeous views. Enjoy relaxing walks or sit back and soak in the scenery. The island and surrounding area are beautiful spots for birdwatching, especially seabirds and waders, so don’t forget to bring your field glasses. Baleshare is also a great place to cycle or walk and enjoys waters filled with marine life, which is certain to entice anglers of all levels. Use your campervan for hire in Baleshare to head out on scenic drives and enjoy a remote, tranquil area perfect for a peaceful retreat. If you’d like to explore more locations, check out our campervans in the Isle of North Uist, campervans in the Isle Of Harris, campervans in the Portree and campervans in the Isle of Lewis.

Grimsay. Ruthjohnson1166

Bidding Adieu to Benbecula

And just like that, we’ve ended yet another exciting guide for a campervan road trip to the Isle of Benbecula. We’ve listed some of the best places to see, but there’s always more to be found, and a campervan rental provides the flexibility to wander where your heart leads. Benbecula is a wonderful destination with plenty to offer all year round, and you’ll find many activities and attractions to suit your tastes. Have a little look at our map for the next destination in our The Best Campervan Road Trip in the Outer Hebrides guide - South Uist.

Sollas, Eilean Sia . Agodicer