One of two nature reserves in the Uists (the other being Loch Druidibeg reserve on South Uist). Balranald RSPB includes the westernmost point on North Uist; the Aird an Runair peninsula.
The reserve offers wonderful coast and grassland habitat to a wide variety of birds; in particular corncrakes, corn buntings, lapwings, and other wading birds are prominent.
Other 'star species' include Barnacle geese, most of whom arrive from Greenland and spend the winter at Balranald.
There is a visitor centre and toilets at the entrance to the reserve. From there a circular nature trail leads through Balranald, covering about one mile. You do not have to follow the trail, however, and are free to wander along the beach or follow the line of the machair further inland.
Access is easy; the reserve is signposted off the A865 in the north-west corner of the island.
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About Balranald RSPB Reserve
Address: Balranald,
North Uist,
Western Isles,
Scotland
Attraction Type: Countryside
Location: Signposted off the A865 just north of Balranald
Website: Balranald RSPB Reserve
Email: nsro@rspb.org.uk
RSPB
Location map
OS: NF706707
Photo Credit: David Ross and Britain Express
Opening Details: Open access site, usually accessible at any reasonable time
HERITAGE
We've 'tagged' this attraction information to help you find related historic attractions and learn more about major time periods mentioned.
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NEARBY HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS
Heritage Rated from 1- 5 (low to exceptional) on historic interest
Kilphedder Cross - 2.6 miles (Historic Church) 
South Clettreval Chambered Cairn - 2.7 miles (Prehistoric Site)
Scolpaig Tower - 3.1 miles (Historic Building) 
Beinn a' Charra Standing Stone - 5.1 miles (Prehistoric Site)
Barpa Langass Chambered Cairn - 8.7 miles (Prehistoric Site) 
Pobull Fhinn Stone Circle - 9.2 miles (Prehistoric Site)
Trinity Chapel (Teampull na Trionaid) - 9.4 miles (Historic Church)
Dun Aonghais - 9.5 miles (Historic Building)
Nearest Holiday Cottages to Balranald RSPB Reserve:
Nearby accommodation is calculated 'as the crow flies' from Balranald RSPB Reserve. 'Nearest' may involve a long drive up and down glens or, if you are near the coast, may include a ferry ride! Please check the property map to make sure the location is right for you.
Glendale, Highlands and Islands
Sleeps: 4
Stay from: £988 - 2809
More self catering near Balranald RSPB Reserve
