Fañch Bihan-Gallic
Short winter days shine ever the brighter when the sun is out and the sky is clear, and a short walk may be a good way to remind ourselves that despite the darkness, chan eil i cho dona sin! Here are three easy and enjoyable walks for dry, cold winter days – làithean fuar geamhraidh. Do note that the ground can be wet and slippery at this time of year and caution is always advised, even when sticking to the path.

Coille Àird a’ Mhulaidh / Àird a’ Mhulaidh Woodland Walk
While this walk may seem uninteresting at first glance with its brown heather and bare trees, it is well worth doing if a good layer of sneachd (snow) is on the ground. Apart from the views of Loch Shìophoirt, Gleann Sgàladail and Gleann Bhiogadail, the particular appeal of this comes from the taller trees behind the observatory. If you leave the path towards them when they are covered in ice and snow, you may witness a winter scene worthy of Lochlann (Scandinavia), especially if the light is just right! Mind the ditch between the path and the grove.
An t-Eilean Glas / Eilean Glas Lighthouse
A clear winter day is perfect for this beloved walk in Scalpaigh. If snow has graced Eilean a’ Cheò (Skye) and the mainland, the views from the lighthouse are uniquely invigorating. An optic illusion due to the bright white colour will make Skye appear closer to us than it is, and the line of mountains on the mainland will make you feel like you are off the coast of A’ Ghraonlann (Greenland). If you are patient, you may even see a pod of puthagan (porpoises) passing by to complete the tableau.
Rubha an Teampaill
An Taobh Tuath and the southern shores of Ceapabhal are quite popular in the summer, but amazingly quiet in winter, which is why we included this classic walk. While it is best with a bright blue winter sky, a grey one does not prevent full enjoyment. The ground is firm and mostly dry throughout, and standing by An Teampall will give you great views of the southern islands of the archipelago of Na Hearadh all the way to Beàrnaraigh (chì sibh Uibhist a Tuath an uair sin cuideachd, ach cò tha coma – no coingeis, mar a chanas iad!). Push a bit farther through the feannagan (lazy-beds) and mòinteach (peatland) of An Taobh Deas and you may even see Hiort in the distance. The local pair of iolairean-mara (sea eagles) had two chicks in 2024, and if they come out you may witness their flight, including the two younglings at play.
Tillibh dhachaigh an uair sin gu teòclaid teth – no rudeigin nas làidire.
The North Harris Trust, Tigh an Urrais, Tarbert, Isle of Harris HS3 3DB
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