Handa Island is a rugged nature reserve, set one mile off the north west coast of Scotland, famous for its stunning scenery, wildlife, sea cliffs and lovely beaches.

Handa combines all of this with over 100,000 seabirds on 150 metre high cliffs looking out to sea.

The footpath around Handa is circular and if done in its entirety about 4 miles or 6 km, which, with children, usually takes around 3 hours to complete, though many families arrive on the first boat and leave on the last if the weather is good!

On calm summer days it is possible to see over 50 species of bird with seals, flowers, insects and possibly a whale, dolphin or otter if you are lucky.

There are also 2 beautiful beaches to relax and play on.

Difficult landing from small boat onto jetty, with 4 mile path with steep sections making Handa very difficult for those with severe mobility restrictions.

No wheelchair provisions at all.

Handa Island has no facilities itself, but a seafood restaurant at Tarbet (where the ferry boat departs from) sells meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks and ice cream.

Photographic leaflets, postcards, greetings cards. We also hire out binoculars and a child's rucksack containing wildlife books, magnifying glass, bug pots etc. Hire items are on a first come first served basis.

No facilities at all. Ladies and Gents Toilets at ferry point at Tarbet, with no disabled or baby changing facilities.

No facilities at all.

Handa Island is signposted from the A894, with the junction 3 miles north of Scourie and 2 miles south of Laxford Bridge. Access to Handa Island is by ferry which runs from Tarbet Pier. Public transport is very limited in the area, with the nearest bus stop being 3 miles from Tarbet Pier at the junction with the A894.

To make the most out of a visit to Handa Island it is important to bring binoculars, waterproofs, good footwear, sun cream and plenty of warm clothes as weather can change very quickly and there is little shelter from the elements. Landing is off a small boat onto a jetty so is not ideal for buggies or child carriers (though several determined and fit people do manage each year). Make sure you visit the toilets at Tarbet before you come across as there are currently no toilets on the island.

If you've had fun on your family day out to Handa Island Wildlife Reserve, tell us about it your visit, so other people will know it's a great place to go as well.