Outer Hebrides: Best surprise

Published on Tuesday 22 July 2008 20:14

1 LOCH CROISTEAN GUEST CENTRE, Uig, Isle of Lewis

01851 672772

Wonderful home-from-home caf in an old schoolhouse on the way to/from Uig. Run by Marianne Campbell, a lovely, chatty woman who has created a magical place to chill out. Comfy sofas, kids' toys – and paintings on the walls create a cosy atmosphere that makes you feel you are in someone's front room rather than a restaurant. Relaxing for adults, fun for kids – and the food's good, Motto – Eat, Meet, Relax – sums it up.

2 A GOLDEN EAGLE IN BENBECULA

We were desperate to see an eagle but kids aren't happy sitting and waiting – they want it to swoop straight by the window, smile for a pic, then fly off. We thought we'd be disappointed until the last-but-one day when an eagle swooped in close enough for all the kids to see it as I slowed the motor-home down to a near stop on the deserted road.

3 ROADENDS SCULPTURE, Carnach, North Uist

(OS map 64, at very bottom left)

A highlight of the holiday. Gaynor, my wife, heard about a sculpture and said we should have a look. It was a lovely tiled bench in the shape of a wave with rockpools below where the kids caught tiny shrimp in nets. There was a small river beyond, then a huge expanse of sand. We went in for a drink and came back out to find the sand covered in water, which had sneaked in from the side. We got out the plastic dinghy and body-boards, splashed around for half an hour, got the barbie going and settled in for the night. Magic.

4 CALMAC FERRIES

www.calmac.co.uk

All the ferries we got to and from – and between – the islands were clean, comfortable and well-equipped. The staff were helpful and friendly – and even the food wasn't that bad.

5 PLAYPARK, EOROPIE

Great playpark in the sand dunes near the Butt of Lewis, described as one of the best in Britain. Sadly, we were there on Sunday and felt it only right to follow the "Please Respect The Sabbath" signs – but it looked fab. Catriona Campbell says: "Award-winning playpark/adventure park for children of all ages, good beach nearby and caf."