Isle of Lewis

Small villages, expansive lochs and ancient relics make Lewis an idyllic retreat for travellers. Rent a remote holiday cottage on Lewis or a traditional croft and light a peat fire in the hearth. Take a walk through the forest or down by the shore to get closer to nature: red deer, seals and the Golden Eagle are native to these parts. The Isle of Lewis is the largest island of the Outer Hebrides and forms part of the north west region of Lewis and Harris. It is an island of sweeping uninhabited coastline and a large flat landscape. Book a Hebridean self catering holiday and unwind in this rural setting.

Historically the sea has played a major role in shaping the lives of the people as both Celtic settlers and Viking raiders have laid claim to the islands. Take part in the passionate seafaring culture and search the waves for whales and dolphins. The Gaelic language is still spoken amongst the locals, who extend a warm welcome to those who visit. The people of Lewis have a varied modern diet and restaurants in the town of Stornoway offer meals using locally sourced ingredients. Sample a dish of Guga; a succulent seabird found on a nearby island and considered a seasonal delicacy!

Callanish Stones

photos of Lewis by Alistair Barclay

Walk amongst the fishermen and stalls at the bustling Stornoway harbour. Watch the ferry arrive from Ullapool, bringing with it the morning commuters. Caledonian MacBrayne provides this service which takes 2 hours and 45 minutes and operates daily. Board the bus from the harbour, enjoying the views out over the fields, and stop off to explore outlying villages. Stornoway Airport offers scheduled flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness and is the quickest route for those travelling without a car. Religion still plays a central role in Lewis with the Sabbath held in respect, this means many commercial services cease to operate until Monday. The church doors are open to all so if you feel inclined you can join the parish community in an uplifting service.

Ness Heritage Centre is a ‘must see’ attraction for those seeking to discover the past. Search through a vast archive of photographs, correspondence and audio recordings. Founded by the Ness Historical Society, the centre encourages visitors to look through genealogical records. Trace your family roots and see what links you might have to the Isle of Lewis. Visit the 6 metre high Trussel stone (Clach an Truiseil), the largest standing stone in Britain; stroll along the beaches of West Lewis; tour the grounds of Lews Castle and pick up a gift from the last remaining producer of Harris Tweed.

Book your holiday on the Isle of Lewis during the bright and warm summer months or book a holiday cottage on Lewis in the winter and enjoy the isolation. The Hebridean Celtic Festival, a 4-day international music event takes place in July and is popular with tourists. Convenient transport links and a wide selection of self catering accommodation ensure that the Isle of Lewis remains a favoured travel destination for those visiting the Outer Hebrides.