In a distant location far removed from the bustling Greggs outlets in the UK lies the country’s most underestimated beach.
Situated on the expansive Lewis, the largest of the Western Isles in the Outer Hebrides, is Garry Beach. Recently crowned as the UK’s most undervalued coastal gem by Boat Booker, this secluded beach stands out for its pristine waters and striking scenery, attracting relatively few visitors.
Scotland claims dominance in the rankings, with six locations in the top 10 list. Islands like Mull and Barra hold top positions, while Porth Trwyn in Wales stands as the highest-rated non-Scottish beach, ranking at number four.
The remote and challenging accessibility of the Hebridean coastline, especially Garry Beach, contributes to its underrated status. Traveling to this beach involved a lengthy journey of over 668 miles from London to Stornoway, followed by a 15-mile drive from Stornoway to Garry Beach. Despite the rather dull and desolate landscape along the way, the beach itself offers a picturesque setting.
Garry Beach features a small parking area accommodating around five vehicles just a brief stroll away from the shoreline. Visitors can traverse a grassy knoll to reach the sandy bay, extending for several hundred meters on either side.
Like many of the remote Scottish beaches, the waters at Garry Beach boast a brilliant blue hue reminiscent of tropical paradises. The beach’s location on the eastern edge of Lewis provides a calmer experience compared to the rugged Atlantic coast, with gentle waves caressing intriguing rock formations that dot the sandy expanse.
Apart from its geographical seclusion, Garry Beach faces another challenge – the unpredictable weather. With average high temperatures reaching only 16°C during the peak season in July and frequent rainy days, visitors must be prepared for Hebridean conditions that differ significantly from the warmer southern coasts.
While not ideal for sunbathing or swimming due to the brisk climate, Garry Beach offers a unique blend of beauty and desolation characteristic of the British coastline. For those intrigued by Garry’s allure but deterred by the arduous journey, alternative options like Sandaig, near the Scottish village of Glenelg, present a more accessible yet equally enchanting beach experience.
Sandaig, immortalized as Camusfearna in ‘Ring of Bright Water’, offers sparkling waters, scenic paths, and rock formations ideal for outdoor activities. The beach’s natural alcoves provide shelter during inclement weather, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a serene coastal retreat.
