The Outer Hebrides is a part of Scotland that is famed for many things: its vast white-sanded beaches and turquoise-coloured sea, wildlife and, of course, Harris Tweed. These little islands are places that I’ve always been hugely fond of, having visited a few times over the last couple of years. Even though the beautiful landscapes are what have attracted me here previously, there is something even more telling—the peace and solitude here. The way of life on the island is something that is completely different to the busy city lifestyle that many of us are so used to now, and often overlooked.
Towards the end of last year, I had the absolute pleasure of spending a weekend here, staying at the gorgeous Solas. Situated along the road to Luskentyre, this incredible space offers the most stunning views out towards the Isle of Harris; providing a truly unique experience to all those lucky enough to stay here. Just from the balcony alone, I was able to gain a great vantage point to photograph across the bay.
We arrived on Friday evening after our ferry across from Uig and, with the night drawing in and the sun having gone down, we were immediately blown away by the space. I spent the best part of Saturday morning sat in the window seat by the kitchen, enjoying a coffee and taking in the raw beauty of the views out to the hillside. As a photographer, I am constantly looking for those little pockets of light, and Solas is full of them.
On the first morning, the golden light from sunrise not only painted some lovely hues on the inside, but the surrounding external landscape was lit up in the November sun. I ventured up to the balcony to make the most of the views, focussing on creating a variety of tight and wide images of the hills of Harris in the distance.
I wanted to pack light, focussing on documenting the moments. It was an easy decision for me to go with my trusted Sony A7IV and the 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom lens, which allowed me to capture the breathtaking wide scenes here, as well as to focus on the smaller (but equally impressive) details of these Isles.
We ventured down to Luskentyre Beach that afternoon—possibly one of the best beaches in the whole of Scotland. As you walk along the beach, there will often only be a few other people here, making it an experience you will never forget. We walked up into the dunes behind the beach, gaining a completely new perspective of this place, and decided to have a moment to take it all in. I always like to gain a little bit of a higher vantage point when photographing scenic beaches, like this one at Luskentyre, as it allows you to frame a complete image of the whole scene. Returning home to Solas, our evening was mostly spent enjoying whisky by the fire, and playing chess; the perfect way to unwind.
The following day was another beach day; this time heading over towards Seilebost, which offers great views back towards Luskentyre, and probably one of the most iconic viewpoints on Harris in my opinion. On a clear day here, you might just be able to pick out the black cabin of Solas in the distance. We then ventured down to Horgabost beach, which is just a short drive away. Another one of Harris’ stunning beaches, which we actually had all to ourselves. This beach is quite a bit smaller than Luskentyre, but still offers the same beauty of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise sea.
One thing that was a seemingly reoccuring theme with my photography on this trip, was my need to provide a series of somewhat "lonely" images. When I picture the Outer Hebrides, I always think how beautiful these scenes are, almost completely empty, providing you with rather unfamiliar peace and solitude.
We headed back just before the sun began to set and this beautiful space came alive with the golden light shining through the front of the house; every corner painted with golden hues, and not to mention the stunning views out from the balcony. We spent our final evening enjoying some lovely food and ending the day relaxing in the incredible, sea-facing sauna (with possibly the best view from a sauna that I have ever seen). An idyllic way to round off our time at Solas—a true gem nestled among these glorious, peaceful islands.
Images and words by Joe Hall—follow him for more beautiful content of our great British Isles.
Feeling inspired? Read our Island makers article with Harris Tweed family member Catherine Campbell, discover the best beaches in Scotland, or explore our collection of the best places to stay in Scotland.
