DAY 4 Next morning the weather looked promising although still windy. However southerly wind when cycling north starting from the Isle of Barra is good news. Sad to leave this remote spot, I’ve taken the last walk along a windswept beach.
Outer Hebrides are famous for machair, a fertile low-lying grassy plain. It begins to bloom from May with a “carpet” of brightly coloured flowers. I managed to see some of its beauty in white, yellow, pink and purple colours.
South Uist turned out to be a relatively flat island which made cycling considerably easier. I noticed there were many single dwellings scattered along the way. They looked very much abandoned. A by product of crofting and clearances. A very interesting subject to read more.
The landscape along the way looked very dramatic. When looking to the East the mountains and hills silhouetted against the horizon. Stormy clouds and rain were passing by. The landscape with many lochs reminded me of my crossing through Rannoch Moor.
Later I learned that all of the lochs are connected together and are good for fishing.
I stopped to admire the tall statue of Our Lady of the Isles, commissioned following proposals from the Ministry of Defence for a large missile testing range. It’s building and destruction caused concern among Community. The missile range control sits ominously on the hill behind the statue.
I made a detour to the Hebridean Jewellery studio and shop.
Wanting to support handmade business and to bring something special from this trip I bought myself a beautiful silver shell with a necklace. They have an amazing range of beautifully made jewellery.
I was very glad I cycled an extra 3 miles because on the way to the jewellery place I passed a couple of beautiful houses. Such as the ones you see a lot on the photographs from the Hebridean Isles. Was glad I found them.
Long cottages made of stone and sometimes painted white, 2 chimneys at opposite sides and a roof made of straw. 2 small windows opposite sides and a door in the middle. Now a self catering Carrodale Cottage is a Category B listed building by Historic Scotland which has been finished to traditional standard.
I cycled back to the main road to arrive shortly at the second causeway along the Hebridean Way. What I remember about it is the variety of different pastel shades blended together towards the horizon. A lonely house here and there on the edge of the coastline.
I arrived on a dreich Benbecula and decided to pitch a tent on the Otters Edge Campground campsite.
Distance covered: almost 23 miles/ 36 km , From Askernish to Otters Edge Campground
