Barraigh agus Bhatarsaigh

The islands of Barra and Vatersay sit off the south coast of Na h-Eileanan Siar and are centred on the harbour community of Castlebay, overlooked by the medieval stronghold of Kisimul Castle. The coastlines are famous for white sand beaches and machair systems, and transport is notably colourful thanks to the beach runway at Barra Airport; nearby uninhabited stacks and islets such as Mingulay, Sandray and Pabbay host important seabird colonies.

Life here is shaped by a small, closely knit, Gaelic-speaking community with an economy based on crofting, fishing and tourism, and a strong tradition of music, storytelling and local festivals. Social history is evident in land and crofting struggles of the past and in the continuing emphasis on community ownership and resilience, while seasonal visitors come for wildlife, walking and the distinct Hebridean culture.