Uig Bay © James Smith

Uig and Bernera is one of thirteen areas that make up the Outer Hebrides. Although the two are distinctive and independent communities in their own right, they share much in common and their ties go back many years.

Our stunning landscapes and breathtaking beachscapes have escaped the destructive clutch of mankind; the vast and awesome power of nature surrounds us in our day to day lives with a great, humbling wilderness of beaches, lochs, moors and mountains.

Community life is thriving. Crofting traditions continue to bring people together as they tend to their animals or bring home their peat; the community shops are places where locals meet and pass the time of day (while choosing their groceries) and the two fantastic new community centres are buzzing with events, meetings, evening classes, clubs and sports.

This caring and vibrant culture is built on a history of strong religious beliefs. The Sabbath remains a special day, when everyone rests, which is appreciated by religious and secular islanders alike.

We bask in days of serene, still sunshine with the air calm, the sand sparkling and the sea Caribbean turquoise clear; and we stand resilient against the wildest and most dramatic of Atlantic storms, with sea spray frothing over the highest cliffs, steely storm grey waves crashing on battered beaches, and scarce trees blowing horizontally in the wind.

Wildlife is part of day-to-day life here. As you go about your business, it is more common than not to encounter a Golden Eagle soaring overhead, a salmon leaping, an oyster catcher by the shore, or a magnificent Stag by the side of the road.

The more adventurous among us make use of the world class facilities that nature has provided us on our doorstep for sailing, kite surfing, fast boating, diving, walking, climbing, cycling, kayaking, surfing... Where else in the world are all these opportunities literally on your doorstep at the end of your working day?