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An Cliseam from Airidh a Bhruaich on the border of Harris and Lewis (Walk 11)

For many years North Harris was owned by private landlords. Although the area did not suffer unduly under this arrangement, in 2003 the crofters and tenants established the North Harris Trust and secured funding to buy 58,000 acres of land and effectively become their own landlords. Since then, the Trust has grown to include the 7,472-acre Loch Seaforth Estate and the Isle of Scalpay. The Trust has numerous projects for the considered regeneration of North Harris, including providing low-cost housing for rent, tree planting, building a small wind farm to generate electricity for local consumption and restoring the old footpaths and drove roads. Despite stalling at the final hurdle with the first attempt back in 2009, the community still has aspirations of becoming Scotland’s third National Park, and it is difficult to envisage a more worthy contender.

WALK 1

Ceapabhal and Toe Head

Start/Finish At the road end in Northton (NF986904) Distance 14km/9 miles Climb 612m/2004ft Time 4½ – 5hrs Highest point Ceapabhal 368m/1207ft Maps OS Explorer 455; OS Landranger 18 Refreshments The Temple Café in Northton opens every day including Sundays

A cursory glance at the map may suggest that this is a short, half-day route of easy walking and a modest peak. However, the climb is nearly 400m straight up from sea level and other than traversing the machair at the start and end of the walk, the going is difficult all the way. This is ‘yomping’ territory – either striding across knee-high heather or negotiating peat bog. However, do not be put off. The walk includes a mix of history, natural sea arches and stunning views over the Sound of Harris – and possibly out to St Kilda on a clear day. The return route looks out on to the brilliant white sands of Scarista beach and the Northton saltings which are home to many waders, including golden plover during the winter months. All of this makes the walk a miniature gem.