The Isle of Lewis is at the North West corner of the group of Islands known as the Hebrides or Western Isles. It stretches for 100 miles and is generally known as the ‘long island’.

Lewis is steeped in history and culture, ranging back thousands of years. Stornoway is the main port and was named ‘Steering Bay’ by visiting Vikings in past centuries. The island’s diverse habitats are home to an assortment of flora and fauna. Sea eagles, Golden eagles and buzzards nest nearby and are often seen from the cottage.

Many seabirds inhabit the coastal areas of Lewis including kittiwakes, guillemots, shag, gannets, fulmars, oyster catchers and curlews to name but a few. On coastal cliffs we find merlins and numerous buzzards.

Salmon frequent many Lewis rivers after crossing the Atlantic. There are dozens of brown trout lochs nearby, most of which can be fished free of charge. Permits for salmon and trout fishing can be obtained on request. Offshore, it is common to see seals, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks. On land are red deer, mink, seals and otter amongst other mammals.

Different species of orchid and various grasses are to be found on the machair. The Island is commonly called ‘Eilean an Fhraoich, after the large expanse of heather-covered moorland.

For golfing enthusiasts there are Golf Courses both in Stornoway (18 Holes) and also Scarista in the Isle of Harris (9 Hole).

During your time here try not to miss out on a day trip it St Kilda. St Kilda is a World Heritage Site and a National Nature Reserve and was designated by UNESCO as Scotland’s first World Heritage Site in 1986. It has received many national and international designations in recognition of its outstanding natural and cultural heritage.