The most popular activities on Harris are eating, drinking, lounging around and walking, all of which we cater for adequately. But there are lots of other things going on: fishing, painting, archaeology, sport… This is a selection.

David and Janet Miles have lived at Scarista for the last 30 years. They are both well regarded and much exhibited artists whose work reflects their many years spent living and working in Harris. David's work can be seen at www.milespaintings.co.uk. We have a profound respect for his work and have several of his paintings in the house, including one over the drawing room fireplace.

A great wee course in truly spectacular surroundings. Nick Faldo has played the course, and the signed fiver he left in the honesty box has been framed by the club and is competed for each year. We keep a half set of clubs at the house for the use of guests.

The view from the sea gives a wonderful new perspective on island life and wildlife. Andrew and Alison Johnson (01859 520204) are the people who converted Scarista House into a hotel, and they now run boat trips on the Petrel in the Sound of Harris. They are incredibly knowledgeable about local topography and wildlife. Click here for their website.

On the East side of the island Hamish Taylor (01859 530310) is a fund of knowledge about island history and lore. Nosing in and out of the bays, Hamish points out deserted villages and isolated houses, and can usually tell you the name and story of the people who lived in them. He has a website at www.scenic-cruises.co.uk.

Angus Mackay (07747 842218) runs day trips to his beautiful island of Taransay, setting for the famous BBC Castaway2000 series.

We have been out with all these operators, who are all licensed and carry a full safety inventory. We are happy to recommend any or all of them.

Tennis by the Atlantic? Click here. Find your roots? Click here.

Pottery? Click here. Abseiling and climbing? Click here. Explore a black house village? Click here. Contemporary Scottish art? Click here.

Paintings? Click here. Buy a black pudding? Click here. Chess? Click here.

Adventure race? Click here. Wild Celtic music? Click here.