A secluded white sandy beach on a tiny Scottish island has been named the UK’s best hidden gem road trip.
We are at the time of year when everyone is thinking about going away and for those planning a road trip should make sure to check out the idyllic spot of Berneray West Beach on the Isle of Berneray.
With fewer than 100 posts on Instagram and TikTok combined the picturesque spot is the perfect place for people looking to escape the regular tourism traps.
The truly stunning beach was voted in 2021 as number three in Lonely Planet’s Top 20 Best beaches in Europe. Back in 2009, the Thai Tourist Board mistakenly used an image of West Beach to promote Kai Bae Beach.
It’s come out on top of Hippo Leasing‘s recent list of the top ten hidden gems across the UK. The company took hashtag data on Instagram and TikTok for 173 road trip destinations in the UK and by focusing on the number of posts identified the least documented yet most picturesque spots that offer a tranquil experience for travellers.
The three-mile stretch of white sand, which is perfect for walks, picnics, and birdwatching, can be reached from the Scottish mainland by ferry, or there are flights that will take you there from England.
Once you’re on the island, you can park up at the car park past Berneray Village Hall, and wander along the beautiful soft sands, listening to the sea lap and the shore.
The beach is dog friendly so even your four-legged friend can lap up the turquoise waves.
Scotland also claimed the second spot on Hippo Leasing’s list. Following behind Berneray West Beach is the Eas a’Bhradain waterfall on the Isle of Skye.
Situated off the A87, this breathtaking cascade of waterfalls is surrounded by rugged mountainsides and has just over 120 posts on Instagram and TikTok combined.
Elsewhere on the list, there are destinations in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Three of the England locations were from the Lake District.
The top hidden gems for a road trip is below.
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Berneray West Beach – Isle of Berneray, Scotland
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Eas a’Bhradain – Isle of Skye, Scotland
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Blackslee Waterfall – Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
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Holme Force – Lake District, England.
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Wild Pear Beach, Devon, England
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Rutter Force – Lake District, England
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Rhaeadr Dyserth, Dyserth, North Wales
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Pollnagollum Cave – Enniskillen, Northern Ireland
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Ritson’s Force – Lake District, England
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East Gill Force, Yorkshire Dales, England