Point Coastal Trail gains national recognition as local walking routes see growing use

Trail Chairman, Tom Clark, commented: "It is very gratifying to receive some national recognition for our Coastal Path project, but even more so when I see how well the various sections are being used by local residents.

"They seem to appreciate the interesting, varied and traffic-free routes between villages, and stretches of coastal scenery previously inaccessible.

"The committee are very grateful for all the assistance received from Paths for All, Point and Sandwick Trust, Macleod Engineering, project manager Tony Robson and the late Alasdair Nicholson who made a massive contribution through astute fund-raising."

The route is now well used throughout the year, particularly in better weather, with walkers, runners and wild swimmers making use of the infrastructure that is being put in place.

Local accommodation providers have also noted steady interest from visitors looking to stay outside Stornoway and explore more of the Point peninsula.

Donald John MacSween of major funder, Point and Sandwick Trust said the recognition reflects a broader pattern of investment in local infrastructure that is beginning to show results.

"We’ve invested £368,000 in the coastal paths since 2020 and are pleased to them being used more and more. Improving access to the coast is a simple idea and one that’s clearly valued by both local people and visitors.

"Seeing it referenced nationally is a nice acknowledgement, but the real success is how it’s being used on the ground."

The trail continues to evolve as part of a wider network of community-led projects aimed at supporting outdoor access, wellbeing and sustainable tourism across the area.

When the current section from Sheshader to Bayble is finished the Trail will be close to completing the
circuit from Stornoway to the Braighe, round the perimeter of the Eye Peninsula and back to town via the Iolaire memorial.