Scotland's 'Maldives' leaves tourists stunned as people can't believe it's in UK

If you're dreaming of the Maldives but your wallet says otherwise, you might want to pay attention to this Scottish gem.

One couple found the 'Maldives of the UK' after they chanced upon an idyllic beach during a hiking holiday. This Scottish haven boasts both powdery white sands and waters so clear you'd be forgiven for thinking you've stepped into a dream.

Known as 'The Travel Duo', Chris and Sam shared their adventure on YouTube, detailing their unexpected find. "I was just on the beach, we were just about to leave," said Sam.

"I sent the drone up to get some drone shots of this beach and I saw another incredible stunning spot on the other side of this mountain... so I'm taking Chris and Fletcher on a little bit of an adventure to see if we can get there because it looks insane."

Their trek through mud and over hills was rewarded with the sight of pristine sand. "Doesn't it look like the Maldives?", she exclaimed, later gushing: "I feel like I've died and gone to heaven. Honestly, it's insane and that water is way too good to not go in for a swim."

As the eagle-eyed among you may have guessed, this dream beach is tucked away on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides. While the couple kept its exact location under wraps, Harris is brimming with idyllic spots that are easy to find if you're after a similar experience.

Take Luskentyre Sands for instance. Recently crowned the best beach in the country, this slice of paradise is not only renowned for its seemingly infinite stretch of white sand, but also for being the backdrop to BBC's Castaway series.

Despite its fame, you won't have trouble finding a spot for your towel either, as its secluded location has kept it relatively hidden. Harris, Lewis and their smaller neighbouring islands are home to just around 22,000 people.

Hushinish beach is another gem located at the end of a 12-mile-long road on the west side of Harris. Visit Scotland says that dolphins and seals are frequent visitors to the area, and the beach offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Meanwhile, holidays to the Maldives currently set you back around £1,700 per person each week, according to Travel Republic, making these Scottish spots a fantastic alternative. And it seems commenters agree, expressing their astonishment on Chris and Sam's video.

One gushed: "Got to keep some secrets, Lewis and Harris [are] on my list for this summer when I can get a trip of off from work at sea, my beagles need to be free on these beaches, great vid." Another added: "Wow. Such a great video and what a place!!"

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