Eriskay

Eriskay is an island in the Outer Hebrides. It has a population of around 130 and is linked to South Uist by a causeway. The island is 4.5km long north to south and 2.5km wide. In 1941 the SS Politician ran aground in the waters between Eriskay and South Uist, carrying many thousands of cases of whisky. This was the basis for the book and film Whisky Galore. It is also known for the native Eriskay Ponies. Get in By boat Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) [1] operates passenger and car ferries from Barra up to 5 times per day, 7 days a week. The crossing takes 40 minutes; this ferry lands at the north end of Barra, and there are often (but not always) connecting buses to Castlebay. CalMac operate the ferries from Oban to Barra and South Uist, with the journey taking 5+ hours. The ferry to Barra, in the distance By air In the Outer Hebrides, there are airports in Stornoway in Lewis, Benbecula and Barra. These airports provide direct flights to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. The nearest airport is on Barra, connected by the ferry. By road Eriskay is linked by causeway to South Uist. By Bus Buses link South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist and Berneray with Eriskay. As part of the Western Isles Overland Route combination of bus and ferry, it is possible to travel from Stornoway to Eriskay and Barra in under a day. Get around Eriskay is small enough to explore on foot. See Do Buy There is a well stocked small community shop. Open Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, and Sun 10.30am-12.30pm. Eat Drink Am Politician Lounge Bar and Restaurant [2]. Pub with good food, and sometimes live entertainment. Named after the 'SS Politician', the real ship that was wrecked during the Second World War with a cargo of whisky, portrayed in the film Whisky Galore. Sleep Bed and Breakfasts Self Catering Renting a house for a week or more is a popular option. Such places are generally let from Saturday to Saturday. Some of these can be found on the tourist board website [3]. Aird na Haunn, HS8 5JH. Bookings 0141 339 2143(Glasgow) [4] Cuan Siar [5]. The Flat, 2 Village, Isle of Eriskay HS8 5JL. Bookings 01878 720274 or 01540 673060 Carrick, HS8 5JR, an architect-designed wooden 'eco' croft house set on an actively worked traditional Hebridean croft. With wood-burning stove and all the comforts required for up to five people at any time of year. High standard of finishes and furnishings throughout. Bedrooms - two doubles and a single. Fantastic views across crofts, sea and mountains. Denise - Telephone +44 1878 700828. See South Uist Self Catering. Camping Wild camping may be possible, enquire locally. There are showers (£1) and toilets in the ferry waiting room. Stay safe Get out Head south on the ferry to Barra, or north by road to South Uist, Benbecula, North Uist and Berneray. This article is an outline and needs more content. It has a template, but there is not enough information present. Please plunge forward and help it grow!