South Uist
South Uist Visitor Guide
Introduction to South Uist | Around South Uist | Lochboisdale | Eriskay
Phone code: + 44 (0) 1870 | Population: 2,285
South Uist is the largest of the southern chain of Outer Hebridean islands and the most scenically attractive. Like its southern neighbour, Barra, South Uist is Roman Catholic and generally more relaxed about Sunday openings.
Its 20 miles of west coast is one long sandy beach, backed by dunes with a mile or two of beautiful, flowering machair behind. To the east of the main A865 that runs the length of the island rises a central mountainous spine of rock and peat dotted with numerous lochs. Its two highest peaks, Beinn Mhor (2,034 ft) and Hecla (1,988 ft), tower over the rocky cliffs of an inaccessible eastern coastline indented by sea lochs.
Getting there
The island's main ferry port is Loch Baghasdail (Lochboisdale), which is reached from Oban and Mallaig via Castlebay on Barra (it arrives late at night). There are also inter-island ferries from Ludag, at the southern tip of South Uist: a private passenger-only ferry sails to Barra. There are passenger ferry sailings on Sun to and from Barra and a car ferry to Castlebay and Oban, but no ferry arrival from Oban, Mallaig or Castlebay and no bus services.
Getting around
A causeway connects South Uist to Benbecula by road and regular buses (4-6 per day Mon-Sat) run between Lochboisdale and Lochmaddy on North Uist, stopping en route at Dalabrog (Daliburgh), Tobha Mòr (Howmore) and Lionacleit and Balinavich on Benbecula. There is also a regular bus service between Lochboisdale and Ludag (for ferries to Barra). For car hire, there's Laing Motors in Lochboisdale (Tel. 700267), and you can rent bikes at Rothan Cycles (Tel. 01870-620283).