Welcome toBenbecula
A flat sweep of beaches, lochs, machair and moorland: Benbecula is a captivating stepping stone between the Uist's.
More about Benbecula
Ideal for:
Nature & wildlife
Culture
Walking
Wildlife Watching
Stunning views and broad, open landscapes
Climb the only hill on Benbecula - Rueval Hill - and you'll be rewarded with stunning views for miles in every direction. Explore the ruins of Borve Castle on the west side of the isle, or hunker down and wait for the wildlife on one of the many lochs and lochans. Look out for owls and eagles, and for the road signs reminding drivers to watch out for otters. The beaches are magnificent, as well, and there's a riding school if you fancy cantering through the surf.
For more information on Benbecula visit the Outer Hebrides website.
Take care on our coast: slips and falls can happen in all locations, not just high cliffs. Check out these RNLI Safety Tips #RespectTheWater
For more information on what to expect in the Outer Hebrides now it is gradually opening its doors once again, watch the video below.
Find out about Scottish Island Passport here
How to get here
You can get to Benbecula by causeway from North Uist or South Uist.
Vehicle reservations are recommended on these routes. You can book travel online, and when you do, you'll immediately receive an eTicket direct to your inbox - ready to board.
Looking for the best form of travel to and from our ports? Our Public Transport Journey Planner can help you plot your journey from anywhere in the UK, using a wide range of public transport companies.
Useful information for your journey
Travelling without a car
By bus
Bus services operate regularly (Monday to Saturday) throughout the Outer Hebrides. Local services from Benbecula link directly to both Lochmaddy Pier (North Uist), and Lochboisdale (South Uist).
By foot
The Isle of Benbecula neighbours both North and South Uist and is connected by causeways. The island has relatively flat ground that's ideal for visitors wishing to explore the islands unspoilt moorlands. For more information about walks on Benbecula go to Visit Outer Hebrides.
By bike
Looking to cycle on the Isle of Benbecula? The Island links into the 185 mile Hebridean Way Cycling Route that crosses 10 islands, 6 causeways, and 2 ferries. Details of bike hire on and near Benbecula can be found at Visit Outer Hebrides.
Note: If you're bringing your bike, please add your bike(s) to your booking, - this means that you have more certainty about space. This ticket will remain free of charge.
Plan your journey at CycleStreets.
Download the free
Ultimate Outer Hebrides App
your ideal journey companion.
Keep up to date with all our CalMac services and Service status & info.
Have you thought about alternate routes to get to your chosen destination?
With 5 routes to and from the Outer Hebrides and great connectivity throughout the island chain the travel options available have never been greater.
Whether you are looking to explore on a Island Hopping holiday or find a different route home we offer a variety of daily sailings to ensure that you can reach your ideal destination.
Here are the 5 route options to the Outer Hebrides
Castlebay (Barra) from Oban
Lochboisdale (Uists) from Oban and from Mallaig (available during 27 October - 2 April)
Lochmaddy (Uists) from Uig (Skye)
Tarbert (Harris) from Uig (Skye)
Stornoway (Lewis) from Ullapool
Travelling with Campervans/Motorhomes/Caravans
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar (Western Isles Council) request that visitors in caravans, motorhomes and campervans stay in official campsites and or designated overnight spots. Plan your trip carefully by booking sites where you can and do not stay out with these campsites/overnight spots. This will help to manage numbers, alleviate pressure on our fragile environment and avoid excessive impact on our communities. Please follow our P.L.A.C.E visitor code and help to keep the Outer Hebrides special. Find out more about changes that have been made to taking Motorhomes and Campervans in the Outer Hebrides
In addition motorhomes, campervans and those vehicles towing a caravan will not be able to join standby queues at ports on the following routes. Find out more about changes that have been made to the motorhomes, campervans and caravans standby process.