Isle of Harris is an idyllic island in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. Located at the crossroads of Europe and North America, it is easily accessible by ferry and has stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. With stunning mountain ranges, heather-covered hills, white sand beaches and rustic pubs, it is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Whether you're looking for a walk in the countryside or a night out in a local pub, there are plenty of activities to explore on a first date.
1. Isle of Harris parks and places for a walk on a first date
Isle of Harris has some of the best natural scenery in Scotland. The peaks of the North Harris and South Harris Mountains offer splendid views of the ocean, while the Atlantic shoreline is dotted with white sand beaches and expansive coastal views. There are plenty of places to take a romantic stroll, such as the North Harris Nature Reserve, with its myriad of birds and mammals, or the deserted beaches of Seilebost and Luskentyre. Other areas to explore include the Western Isles of Lewis and Harris, Harris's sandy beaches and the Lewis's coastal wetlands.
2. Places for a coffee date in Isle of Harris
If coffee is your preferred way to get to know your date, Isle of Harris has some excellent cafes. The Harris Cafe in Tarbert serves up delicious scones, cakes and teas with a view of the harbour and the Golden Road Cafe at the nearby Scalpay offers an extensive breakfast and lunch menu. Further afield, there's the Northton Cafe, with its homemade cakes, and the Leverburgh Coffee Corner, which is housed in an 18th century building. For an even more special experience, head to Cafe Mish Mish or the Seallam Visitor Centre's Cafe at Luskentyre Beach – where you can enjoy freshly made pastries and coffee while admiring the stunning surroundings.
3. Isle of Harris galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If culture is part of your first date agenda, Isle of Harris has plenty to offer. The Tarbert Harbour Village has a number of galleries and craft shops, including the Minish Gallery, the Harris Tweed Shop, the Isle of Harris Distillery and the Harris Tweed Weaving Studio. The local museum at the Leverburgh Heritage Centre is also well worth a visit, with its displays of historical items and photographs. For a more interactive experience, there are a number of art and craft classes to take part in, such as weaving and pottery.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Isle of Harris
If your date is into music, the Isle of Harris has some great live music venues. The Leverburgh Bar and Restaurant is the place to go for Jazz, Rock and Pop on Saturday evenings, with the occasional ceilidh thrown in. The nearby Northton Bunkhouse Bar is also a great option, with regular live music sessions every Friday and Saturday night. For an even more unique experience, explore some of the local music festivals taking place throughout the year, such as the Hebe Jamboree and the Skye and Harris Folk Festival.
5. Isle of Harris pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a relaxing drink or meal on a first date, the Isle of Harris has some great pubs and restaurants. The Old Pier Pierhouse in Tarbert is a popular spot, offering views of the harbour and good local seafood dishes and drinks. The nearby G&T Cafe and Bar is a great place for a casual date, with its extensive drinks menu and tasty pub grub. Other places worth visiting include the Caberfeidh Hotel in Stornoway, the Gallery Cafe at Tarbert and the Jinty MacKay Bar in Leverburgh.
6. Other date ideas to try in Isle of Harris
If you're looking for some more unusual date ideas, Isle of Harris has plenty to offer. Try exploring the local area on a guided tour, such as the Hebridean Whale Trail, or take a boat trip to see some of the island's unique wildlife, such as otters and seals. If the weather is good, why not take a hike to spot some of the island's rare species of birds or take a drive along some of its breathtaking coastal roads. If you want to get active, there's plenty of activities to choose from, such as kayaking, rock climbing and coasteering. Whatever you decide to do, you're sure to have a memorable time exploring the beautiful Isle of Harris.
