The Isle of Lewis

Lewis is the largest and most northern island in the Outer Hebrides, home to one of the best prehistoric sites in Scotland, and some fabulous beaches.

The main hub on Lewis is Stornoway, by far the largest settlement on the Outer Hebrides. There are also lots of crafting and fishing villages along the north west coast.

Archaeology buffs will make a beeline to see the famous standing stones at Callanais, a fascinating group of nearly 50 megaliths dating from around 3000 BC. The Arnol Blackhouse is a preserved example of the many blackhouses that lie deserted on the island.

The west coast has brilliant beaches, while much of the island is made up of peat bog, the favoured habitat of a variety of rare breeding birds. Butt of Lewis, the far northerly tip of the island, is home to many seabirds, and is an excellent spot for watching whales, dolphins and porpoises.