The village of Tarbert is the home of Backpackers Stop. The main settlement on the Isle of Harris, it sits on a low lying narrow pinch where North Harris and South Harris meet. That would seem a good place to put a village, as travellers from north and south and from the ferries would all cross paths. 

Harris is often lumped in with its conjoined neighbour Lewis, yet it has distinct and more mountainous character. North Harris has the highest peaks in the Outer Hebrides. From these heights, where you will scarcely meet another soul, you can see the whole expanse of Harris. Be awed by the high lochs, the twisted indented fjord-y coastline the ridges and the pale strips of beaches. Here and there are the villages joined by twisty roads. Fabulous.

The hostel, Backpackers Stop, might be the ideal base for exploring Harris. Offering simple, friendly accommodation, it is the attention to detail and warm touches that make the difference. Complementary hot drinks and breakfast (including fresh eggs from the local chickens!) will be very welcome.  

Without the benefit of an apostrophe Backpackers Stop is an instruction or advice, and some that’s well worth taking. Take the chance to rest those walking feet, use the laundry and perhaps even warm up before your next adventure.

Backpackers Stop, previously Rockview Bunkhouse, has just joined the Independent Hostel Guide.  Backpackers Stop is in the central village of Tarbert in the Isle of Harris.   In the valley where North and South Harris meet, with backdrop of mountain scenery,  Tarbert is the Harris’s  main settlement and is a transport hub and cetral meeting point for the area.  Home of Harris Tweed, Tarbert is a great location for exploring the island.  There is a ferry terminal in the harbour and boat tours to the Shiant islands with views of  the puffins.  Tarbert has Tourist information office, post office, banks, cafes, restaurant and pubs.