What's on in Isle Of Lewis

The Isle of Lewis is part of Lewis and Harris, the main and largest island of the Outer Hebrides or Western Isles. It covers approximately 683 square miles and contains the largest population and settlement of the Western Isles in Stonrnoway. It is a quite wonderfully unspoiled island, home to some incredible wildlife, birdlife and flora and fauna, including golden eagles, seals and red deer. It is no hyperbole to say that a visit to Lewis is like stepping back in time, from the spoken Gaelic language to their observance of the Sabbath and their wonderful and rich cultural heritage that is still intact.

In fact, there has been continuous habitation on Lewis since as far back as 8000 years ago, and there are archaeological remains from at least 5000 years ago as well as evidence of houses and settlements at Dail Mhor and Carloway. Also worth seeing are the incredible communal burial cairns and temples of Calanais and from 500BC the brochs (dry-stone towers belonging to local chiefs) which can be seen at Dun Charlabhaigh. Other wonderful sites include the ancient stone circles in Stornoway, the Callanish Stones and the Iron Age Houses near Bostadh, the Bragar whale bone arch, St. Columba’s church in Aignish, Lews Castle and the Butt of Lewis lighthouse and cliffs. Other attractions include the Blackhouse Museum at Arnol, which explains the traditional way of life of Lewis, the Shawbost Norse Mill and the wonderful Blackhouse Village at Gearrannan.

To get a taste of the wild scenery, drive out to the bridged island at Great Bernera and along the epic coastal road near Valtos and Uig as well as driving all the way to Harris and the highland part of the island. Lastly, for a bit of tranquility, try the area called Lochs and South Lochs which is both peaceful and remote, offering the combination of unbelievable scenery and complete solitude. Wonderful.