Meet friendly Shetland ponies at Long Island Retreats in a fun 45-minute activity perfect for all ages. Discover why this charming farm is a favorite for animal lovers and families on Long Island.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, low physical demand
Wildlife
History
Long Island Retreats has been operating as a family farm for over 20 years, with a focus on humane animal interaction and sustainable farming practices.
Conservation
The farm practices eco-friendly land management, emphasizing natural habitats and responsible animal care to ensure a sustainable environment.
Long Island Retreats
Meet friendly Shetland ponies at Long Island Retreats in a fun 45-minute activity perfect for all ages. Discover why this charming farm is a favorite for animal lovers and families on Long Island.
Long Island Retreats operates on the Isle of South Uist in Scotland, offering a focused set of island experiences that highlight local landscapes, wildlife and crofting culture. The business arranges guided 4x4 Island Tours that traverse the islands’ varied terrain, from rugged coastline to lush interior, and includes storytelling, wildlife encounters, Gaelic lessons and options for a traditional Hebridean picnic.
Long Island Retreats also runs a Croft Tour around Loch Skipport that introduces visitors to crofting life, Highland cattle and Shetland ponies, and shares local history and cultural context. The Machair Tour is a dedicated two-hour experience through the rare machair habitat of the Outer Hebrides, where visitors see vibrant wildflowers, wader birds and grazing Aberdeen Angus cattle while learning about crofting practices and native crops such as machair tatties.
For families and animal lovers, the Ponies in the Paddock experience offers a 45-minute visit with friendly Shetland ponies known for playful personalities and social media recognition. That experience is presented as accessible to all ages and focused on safe, memorable interactions.
Long Island Retreats bases all tours on the island community and landscape of South Uist, sharing locally rooted stories and skills like Gaelic. The business emphasizes direct connection to place through outdoor exploration, wildlife viewing and cultural learning, making it a clear option for visitors seeking authentic Outer Hebrides experiences.
Location
Isle of South Uist
Outer Hebrides island base
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Guided island and wildlife trips
Typical Duration
45 min–2 hr
Short visits to longer tours
Local Wildlife
Ponies & cattle
Shetland ponies and grazing cattle
Secure a place for island tours, croft visits or a Shetland pony encounter—spaces are limited seasonally.
Arrive Early
Getting there early guarantees a more relaxed experience and better photo opportunities.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Bring sturdy footwear suitable for walking around the pasture and farm area.
Bring Snacks
Pack a light snack for yourself or children, as there are picnic areas available afterward.
Respect the Ponies
Follow staff instructions and avoid sudden movements to keep the ponies comfortable.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking around farm trails and pasture areas.
Sun hat or cap
Provides protection from the sun during outdoor visits.
spring;summer;fall
Camera or smartphone
Capture cute moments with the ponies and enjoy mementos of your visit.
Light jacket or layers
Prepare for changing weather during outdoor farm activities.
winter;spring;fall