Cross the Bernera Bridge (known fondly as 'the bridge over the Atlantic') from Lewis to Great Bernera and pass the Standing Stones guarding this ancient narrow crossing. Following the road through the centre of the island you will pass the walk to Dun Barabhat (small signpost on the left side of the road) - this is a broch on a small island in the loch.
Beyond this is the village of Breaclete where there is a self-service 24/7 community-owned fuel pump (petrol and desiel). Continue up the road past the community playground, church and old school and you will come to the Bernera Community Centre. Here the Community Café, Grocery Shop and Sports Halls. The cafe offers homemade sandwiches, soup and snacks, home baking and drinks. Takeway is also available. The shop stocks all essentials and has a section selling locally made crafts. There are also two Type 2 (7kw) Electric Vehicle (EV) charge points located at the front of the Community Centre.
The cafe, shop and events are open to the public, while the rest of the community centre is open for private bookings and members of the Bernera Community Association. Visit https://www.facebook.com/BerneraCommunityAssociation for more information. The Bernera Museum is also located within the Community Centre. Visit Bernera Museum | Facebook for more information.
Continuing along the road north from the Community Centre and you will pass the monument to the Bernera Rioters and finally come to Bosta Beach, one of the most beautiful, small beaches in the outer Hebrides. Walk round the cemetery and visit the reconstructed Iron Age House for an insight to the people who lived at Bosta two thousand years ago.
Other villages hold their own attractions (Tobson (a beautiful and hilly township), Hacklete (with nice views across to the Bhaltos pennisula), Kirkibost (home to a modern Mariner and a working pier), and Croir (overlooking the idyllic white sands of Little Bernera).
Walking is encouraged on Great Bernera with a coastal walk from the Community Centre to Bosta being very popular, as well as walks to the Norse Mill and Lobster Pond. Look out for Golden Eagles and other wildlife while exploring.
B&B and Cottage rentals are available as well as locally operated boat trips and bus services linking to Stornoway.
So come and visit Great Bernera, stay a while and meet the friendly local community.
