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Ferry Service

Handa Island Wildlife Reserve

Handa Island by Tarbet

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Photo: Bernd U. aus B. an der S.

About Handa Island Wildlife Reserve

Journey by boat to this remote Scottish island sanctuary where dramatic sea cliffs teem with puffins, razorbills and thousands of seabirds in their natural habitat.

What's nearby

  • Shorehouse Restaurant next door

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Good to know

Parking

  • ✓Paid car park

Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel.

Photos

Photos via Google

What visitors say

Lisa Martin

Drove 2.5 hours for the puffin ferry on a glorious weather day. Rang both numbers on the way to check it was running — phones just rang out. No update on Facebook, no update on the website, just a fun little surprise closure on arrival. Outstanding customer service. 👏

· via Google

Viren Y

To reach the Handa island, you’ll need to take a 10-minute ferry ride from Tarbet. The island offers great opportunities to spot a variety of birds and other wildlife. Please note, there is only one small toilet available on the island, and there is a toilet at Tarbet. Be sure to bring water, food, and a hat—especially on sunny days. The trail on the island is uneven and runs close to cliffs in many areas, so please keep a close eye on children. Don’t forget to carry binoculars for better views of the wildlife. The road to Tarbet is very narrow and can be dangerous at times. Drive slowly and cautiously. The circular track is approximately 4 miles long and can take around 3-4 hours, but you can cut short if required. ************ IMPORTANT: Do not take a wrong turn while reaching the Tarbet —U-turns can be extremely risky on this road. ************ There is no mobile network on the Handa island. Also carry cash for the ferry. Please check the time for last boat time. Always call the place before you go to Tarbet. Adults : 25 Child : 10 Under 5 : Free

· via Google

Bob Iles

Cash only as they have little to no signal for card transactions. Get there early to ensure you get a parking space. I was not impressed by the lack of health and safety towards us as we were told just to hold onto our life jackets, or just put them over our heads without strapping them up. A accident waiting to happen. The trip on the island itself was well worth it. I also thought £25 a person is a bit expensive. But still did it.

· via Google

Connie Chan

Handa Island is famous for bird watching especially putffins. I was surprised that the coastal walk was amazing, easy and pleasant. I had such a great time. I spent around 3.5 hours here. Highly recommend for a sunny day.

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

At a glance

Address
Unnamed Road, Lairg, IV27 4SR Get directions
Category
Zoos & Animal Parks
Guest rating
4.5 / 5 (160 reviews)
Suitable for
Ages 4+
Setting
Outdoor
Toilets on site
Yes
Destination
Scourie