57C Portree – Uig

It’s possible the most dramatic, rugged, yet peaceful of landscapes in the UK and the 57 bus traverses it on a journey from the marvellous fishing town of Inverness, across Syke to the amazing Uig, a remote region of Lewis, lying some 20-odd miles west of Stornoway on the island's rugged Atlantic coast.

This is a journey that combines loch-side scenery with sky-high coastal views, of incredible wildlife, fascinating geology and majestic coastal scenery. It is simply awe-inspiring.

The bus leave Portree and runs beside Loch Fada and Bride’s Veil Falls, then beside Loch Leathian. Tantalisingly close to Barreaig Bay and the Old Man of Storr it progresses, round the coast, past Lealt Falls. There’s great views over towards Staffin, which is set beneath the wonderful Trottenish Ridge and famous for its lovely beach, amazing geology and spotty houses. The bus makes its way further, with jaw-dropping views across the Hebridean Minch, close to Staffin Bay below. The sand Staffin beach is an ideal place for families and is famous for its dinosaur footprints that were discovered here in 2002, which are the largest of their kind in Scotland.

Spectacular rocks and forests are visible and the bus navigates hillier landscape, in a dramatic setting combining untouched, pristine sand and steep, wild cliffs. Into Uig, with its famous beach, where the Lewis Chessmen, 12th century Vikingchess pieces were found. There’s also a variety of great places to eat, including the Loch Croistean Coffee Shop. The bus finds its way to Uig Pier, which is at one end of a stunning, horse-shoe-shaped bay.

As there is only 1 bus a day, we recommend making the most of the places of interest at either end – Portree or Uig or staying over for a few days to explore this blissful region.

At Portree, there’s paddling, pony trekking, boat cruises, a swimming pool and great shopping in Portree as well as coach tours around the Isle of Skye. The award-winning Aros Centre also runs theatre, concerts and film shows. It’s a famous fishing town as well and there’s some great restaurants serving up fresh, local fish!

Uig is a simply fascinating location. A walk from the centre of Uig is the magnificent double-waterfall in a deep glen, Fairy Glen. Other points of interest include Clach Ard Uige, a relic of an ancient stone circle standing on the hills above Uig, the ruins of a 17th century castle, Caisteal Uisdean, the Piping Memorial sitting at the top of Glenhinnisdal and the Museum of Highland Life, which is set in a lovely landscape that includes tree creepers and red squirrels!

Gateway to 57

From Inverness on Stagecoach’s 917 service