Howmore, South Uist

Howmore Hostel is a traditional thatched croft house on the machair (shell sand). The township of Howmore lies on the west coast of South Uist in an area widely covered with machair forming a rich soil for grass and a patchwork of colourful wild flowers in the summer season.

There's good walking and cycling in the area, with extensive beaches on the ocean side of South Uist and mountains on eastern side of island. The hostel overlooks a ruined medieval church, burial place of the Clan Ranald Chiefs.

Overnight Fee £20 (£10 for under 18s). Camping fee £12 (£6 for under 18s). Sheet sleeping bags are required and may be hired for £3. Your first night at this hostel is not bookable but once you have bagged a bed it is yours for the rest of your stay.

Operated by the Gatliff Hebridean Hostels Trust. For more information, please visit www.gatliff.org.uk or email: Howmore@gatliff.org.uk

This traditional thatched croft house boasts spectacular ocean views, sitting on the coast next to the ruins of a 13th century monastery.

For those looking to discover the natural beauty of South Uist the hostel is a great base for walkers and cyclists with numerous walking and cycle routes close by. From dramatic Atlantic coastal walks with extensive golden sands to the challenging peaks of South Uist's eastern mountain range.

The area is steeped in history and the local area has plenty of ancient church ruins to discover. Nature lovers will love exploring the nearby Loch Druidibeg Nature Reserve