This in Scotland's Outer Hebrides is the only place in the world with a commercial airport that has its planes land on the beach. Barra is the second southernmost inhabited island in the and it is formed from the oldest rocks in .

Barra's commercial beach airport only opens when the tide allows. It's beautiful beachscape includes Traigh Mhòr, which is just one of the several stunning bays the island has to offer.

All of the beach points are connected by coastal bike trails, and often people can spot seals from the shore.

If cold sea plunging is your thing, some people enjoy taking a dip in the chilly Scottish waters, while others prefer to do a bit of otter-watching from the sidelines.

On the island's highest hill is the white-marble statue of the Madonna and Child, known as Our Lady of the Sea.

The statue was first erected in 1954, but it looks like it has been there for centuries.

From this hill, you can catch sightings of the specks Vatersay, Berneray, and Mingulay. These are all perfect for a day trip.

Castlebay is Barra's main village and it is named for the medieval fortress stunningly engulfing an islet just offshore.

There has been human presence on the island since the Neolithlic era but it was established by Vikings later.

Tourism is the main source of income for the island's inhabitants, with the high season being from May to September.

Thousands of people descend on the island every year, with the busiest times being during Fèis Bharraigh, which is an annual Gaelic arts and culture event held on Barra as well as BarraFest in July.

In April 2020, Condé Nast Traveller labelled Barra as "a delightful little island with its own castle and beach airport" and recommended visiting the "high cliffs in the east and lovely beaches and bays in the west".