
Driving the scenic A888, a loop road around Barra
Scotland, europe
20.8 km
100 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in the Outer Hebrides, on the stunning island of Barra. Buckle up, because you're about to cruise the A888, also known as the Barra Ring Road!
This paved loop is your ticket to exploring the island's coastal villages. Clocking in at just under 13 miles (20.8 km), it's a quick trip – you can easily drive the whole thing in about half an hour.
Now, a heads-up: it's a single-track road with passing places, so be prepared to share. The highest point reaches about 100m, just northeast of Castlebay. But the views? Oh, they're worth it! Think dramatic North Atlantic ocean views, rocky bays, and those incredible white sand beaches that Barra is famous for. The road makes most of the island very accessible, which encircles a mountainous interior. It’s easy to jump on the loop wherever you are. Get ready for an unforgettable island adventure!
Where is it?
Driving the scenic A888, a loop road around Barra is located in Scotland (europe). Coordinates: 54.6339, -0.1788
Road Details
- Country
- Scotland
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 20.8 km
- Max Elevation
- 100 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 54.6339, -0.1788
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