The hymn “Fhir a chruthaich fhir a chriu” was composed in Creagorry on 11 August 1875; a section of the Hebridean Way also runs from Creagorry to Liniclate. These points of reference connect the area’s history with the specific conditions along the route.
Hebridean Way: Routes and Terrain
Section D of the Hebridean Way between Howmore and Liniclate includes two miles of paved footpath from Creagorry to Liniclate. This section also includes 6.5 miles on good tracks or paths, 2.5 miles of rough, pathless moorland, and five miles on paved roads, mostly quiet single-track roads. The differences between paved footpaths, paths, moorland and roads can help you match your planned stage to the terrain. The Hebridean Way also includes longer sections of a good new path and spectacular bridges in striking landscapes.
Gaelic Music and Local History
Creagorry’s musical history includes works and traditions with different connections to the area. The hymn “Fhir a chruthaich fhir a chriu” was written there on 11 August 1875. Christina MacInnes collected the Gaelic song “Laoi Dhuil Liosadair” in Creagorry. The accompanying account tells how Dughal Liosadair composed the song after falling into a prolonged trance.
Pipe music is also associated with Creagorry: the reel “Creagorry Blend” is linked to Pipe Major Willie MacLean, who was in Creagorry. “Dr MacKay’s Farewell to Creagorry” was the original name of the piece now known as “The Dark Island”; this attribution is presented as a tradition handed down over time. This distinguishes a hymn text with a precise date from a song collection and various musical traditions.
Other historical points of interest lie nearby. A crannog in Loch na Chraoibh Mòire is located north of the B891 between Creagorry and Port Pheadar. Borve Castle (Caisteal Bhuirgh), near Creagorry, stands in ruins. Amy MacRuairi, the first wife of John, Lord of the Isles, had the castle built between 1344 and 1363; it was occupied by Clanranald until the Jacobite uprising of 1715. South Ford on the Bonnie Prince Charlie Trail recalls Neil’s arrest by the militia on 23 June 1746, near Creagorry.
Island Nature and Birdwatching
Rueval on Benbecula is 124 metres high and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the water, islands, beaches and mountains from the summit. The Bird of Prey Trail offers a different way to experience nature: it runs across Benbecula through low-lying moorland and past lochs. During the breeding season, the area is suitable for spotting hen harriers, short-eared owls and merlins. The island-wide views and the seasonal focus on particular bird species offer different ways to enjoy nature.
Accommodation and Getting Around
The Isle of Benbecula House Hotel in Creagorry is considered a base for wildlife watching, birdwatching, photography, walking and cycling. It is also associated with the “Eat Drink Hebrides” programme. If you are considering staying there, check current availability before booking.
For visitors travelling by car, Creagorry has a 24-hour self-service petrol station. Puffin Studio Crafts in the Old Post Office is a gift and craft shop with a selection of items by local artists and producers. If you plan to visit, check in advance whether it is open. From South Uist, the route to the Museum nan Eilean Lionacleit first passes the Creagorry Coop Store and then continues to the museum.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Isle Of Lewis, Lochboisdale, Isle of North Uist, Isle of Harris, Barvas, Castlebay.
Return to the main travel overview: Outer Hebrides.
