Hebridean Day 3 had been a rather wet, windy and tough day of cycling. At the start of our Hebridean Way 4, the sun was shining as we made our way over to the ferry port. This was deceptive, for the wind would still be a major factor throughout the day.

The choppy waters meant the ferry had to have a couple of attempts to reach the port.

It was a one-hour journey, and as soon as we arrived at Leverburgh on the Isle of Harris we went in search of a cup of coffee. We had to stand to one side of the pop-up trailer as we drank the cuppa to keep out of the wind.

Soon, we were joining the A859 and cycling through Leverburgh.

After which we climbed our first hill of the day.

Passing the salt flats.

Then Sgarasta Mhor beach.

Which was overlooked by the Isle of Harris Golf Club.

Continuing to follow the coastline, we passed a number of white sandy beaches.

Including Seilebost beach.

We had intended to briefly take a detour from the Hebridean Way route and visit Luskentyre beach. However, the headwinds were taking their full effect, and Mike was struggling, both from a slight illness and the effort expended cycling into those headwinds. So, we gave the detour a miss and concentrated on getting to Tarbert.

Moving away from the coast meant climbing up through the valley between Ceann Reamhar and Grosa Cleit.

Once at the top we took a breather.

There followed a fine descent.

Which eventually brought us into Tarbert, one of the larger communities on the islands. We took a rest and enjoyed some food on a bench overlooking the ferry port.

Then continued on to our accommodation.

We were staying at the Harris Hotel.

In the evening we went to watch a film in a mobile cinema – the Screen Machine which was parked in the car park next to the hotel. We were fortunate it was there when we were visiting. It is a fantastic concept. Showing the latest cinema, it tours the rural communities in the islands and highlands of Scotland.

We had only cycled 22 miles today, but it had felt like 42! It had been another challenging day of cycling accompanied by the wonderful scenery of these islands.

You can view our Hebridean Way Day 4 route from Berneray to Tarbert below: