Blackhouse Bothies - Lewis and Harris

A Warm Welcome Awaits...

The Outer Hebrides or Western Isles are a chain of 15 inhabited (and many more uninhabited) islands off the north west coast of Scotland, stretching from Vatersay in the south to Lewis in the north. The isles of Lewis and Harris are one island, sometimes called 'The Long Island' and is the largest in the Outer Hebrides.

Arivruaich is 5 miles north of the Lewis - Harris border on Lewis and has magnificent views of the Harris Hills and Loch Seaforth.

These islands are famous for their spectacular scenery, fresh air and warm welcomes. Come and experience the miles and miles of pristine beaches, taste the fantastic local produce and enjoy the generous hospitality of the Outer Hebrides.

Beaches

Everyone's heard of the famous Luskentyre beach but Lewis and Harris have so many outstanding beaches. Here are some of our favorites.

Tràigh Ùige - Ardroil, Uig (Lewis)
Sometimes called Uig Sands, this enormous expanse of beach is a must see. It was here in 1831 that the famous Lewis Chessmen were discovered in a small stone chamber having been hidden for over 500 years.

Tràigh Hushinish - Hushinish (Harris)
A beautiful sandy bay at the end of a picturesque 12 mile single track road. Perfect for time in the water or a hike to the hidden beach of Tràigh Mheilein (also known as Cravadal). Nearby just to the north lies the uninhabited island of Scarp, the location of an experimental rocket postal service in the 1930s.

Tràigh Bostadh - Bosta, Great Bernera (Lewis)
This white shell sand beach is found at the far end of the island of Great Bernera. The beach is the location of a Tide and Time bell, set on rocks out in the bay, that rings as the tide passes. A replica Iron Age house sits at the head of the beach, open to the public during the summer.

Tràigh Mhòr - Tolsta (Lewis)
A mile long stretch of white sand, backed by sand dunes. The main beach is accessed by a small inland beach created by the course of a river. Overlooked by a rocky headland with stunning views of the beach and sea.

History and Culture

The Outer Hebrides has been inhabited for at least 5000 years. This history can be found throughout the Isles.

Calanais Standing Stones
Known as Scotland's Stonehenge, this impressive stone circle is one of the most significant and important megalithic complexes in Europe. The site was constructed by Neolithic people sometime between 2900 BCE and 2600 BCE.

Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
This small village has nine restored traditional blackhouse cottages. These houses were lived in until as recently as 1974. Several are open to look around inside.

The Uig Chessmen
78 chess pieces were found in a chest buried in the sand at Uig Bay. Carved from walrus ivory and whale teeth, they are believed to have been made in Scandinavia. Several of the pieces can be viewed at the Stornoway Museum in Lews Castle.

Wildlife

The Outer Hebrides is one of the last untouched natural landscapes in Europe. It is a haven for birds and sea life.

The spectacular white tailed eagle can be regularly spotted in the Outer Hebrides. With a wing span of over 2m it is the largest bird of prey in the UK.

There are an estimated 4000 red deer living wild on Lewis and Harris and sightings are common. If staying later in the year listen out for the amazing sound of the rut in the air.

Seals and otters are common in the sea lochs around the islands. Seals can be curious and will often come to investigate you as you walk along the shore. Otters are shy creatures but can sometimes be seen along the waterline searching the seaweed for their next meal.

All this amazing wildlife, as well as sea birds, hen harriers and golden eagles can be seen from your window at Blackhouse Bothies.

THE ISLES OF LEWIS AND HARRIS

Your Guide to the Isles

Beaches

History and Culture

Wildlife