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Image: Dun Carloway Broch, Outer Hebrides
Lewis & Harris
Off the west coast of Scotland, the Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris form the main island in the Outer Hebrides. With wild mountains, stunning white beaches, and a unique Gaelic culture, this island duo is the perfect start to any Hebridean adventure. It’s little surprise the Outer Hebrides has been named one of National Geographic's ‘Best of the World’ destinations for 2025.
Great things to do in Lewis and Harris
Visit historic sites, places of incredible beauty and great cultural attractions on Lewis and Harris and be enchanted by the wonders of the Outer Hebrides.
Stornoway
Stornoway, the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, blends island charm with a lively cultural scene.
Attractions on Lewis
From iconic standing stones to peaceful beaches, step into ancient history and explore the island's rich heritage.
Wildlife on Lewis
The Isle of Lewis is a haven for wildlife lovers. See soaring eagles, spot shy otters, and admire roaming red deer.
Boat trips and tours on Lewis
Whether it's a wildlife cruise or a sea loch adventure, take to the water on Lewis.
Sailing in the Outer Hebrides
Drop anchor near sandy beaches, explore remote inlets, or follow scenic sea routes through the Outer Hebrides.
St Kilda
Venture to remote and unforgettable St Kilda – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering cliffs, seabird colonies, and great history.
Top days out ideas
Discover unforgettable days out on Lewis and Harris – from ancient standing stones and white-sand beaches to wild moorlands and vibrant island culture.
Luskentyre Beach
Luskentyre Beach is often compared to Caribbean shores due to its breathtaking beauty. Discover this tranquil spot.
Harris Tweed
Discover Harris Tweed – the world’s most luxurious wool fabric, exclusively handwoven in the Western Isles.
Lews Castle and Museum
Lews Castle and Museum is a must-visit destination, seamlessly blending Victorian grandeur with rich island heritage.
Butt of Lewis
The Butt of Lewis comprises of rocks and cliffs up to 80 feet high and is the location of a 121 ft high lighthouse.
Gearrannan Blackhouse Village
This coastal crofting village offers cosy cottages, rich history, and fantastic walks.
Dun Carloway Broch
Step back over 2,000 years at Dun Carloway, one of Scotland's best-preserved Iron Age brochs.
Isle of Harris Distillery
The Isle of Harris Distillery offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of spirit making in a stunning coastal setting.
Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture
From traditional music and storytelling to the language that still shapes daily life across the islands.
Callanish Alpacas
Meet the fluffiest locals on the Isle of Lewis – a fun stop for animal lovers of all ages.
Saltbox Sauna
Unwind beside the sea in the Outer Hebrides with Saltbox Sauna and enjoy panoramic views of rugged Hebridean coastlines.
Archaeology in the Outer Hebrides
Find out more about the islands through history. Discover Neolithic stone structures, medieval castles and even mummies!
39 Things to do on the Isle of Lewis
Check out travel blogger, My Voyage Scotland's, top recommendations on the best things to see and do around Lewis.
Inspiring routes, trails & itineraries
Lewis and Harris are made for exploring – think winding roads, coastal trails, and scenic stops. Follow the long-distance Hebridean Way, or spot wildlife in their natural habitat along wildlife trails.
White tailed sea eagle
Follow a route
Walk, cycle, sail or drive through landscapes full of breathtaking views at every turn.
See what's on in Lewis and Harris
Thinking of a trip to Lewis and Harris soon? The island has a thriving arts and culture scene with lots of events taking place throughout the year.
Hebridean Celtic Festival, Isle of Lewis
© Hebridean Celtic Festival / Colin Cameron
Events
Plan your perfect trip and find out the latest events and festivals taking place across Lewis and Harris.
Map of Lewis and Harris
Explore Lewis & Harris
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How to travel to and around Lewis and Harris
Lewis and Harris can be reached by ferry and plane making it easy to travel to the Outer Hebrides.
Getting to
Ferry
Daily car ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) run from Ullapool on the mainland to Stornoway, the main town of Lewis and Harris. The port of Tarbert on Harris is linked to Uig on the Isle of Skye by daily ferries.
Plan your ferry journey on the CalMac website
Find out more about ferry travel in the Outer Hebrides
There are numerous marinas in the Outer Hebrides, so why not travel by boat?
Flying
If you want to fly, the island's airport lies just a few miles from the town centre, with regular flights with Loganair arriving and departing from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, and Benbecula.
Getting around
Walking
Lewis and Harris offer a wide range of walking routes from hiking through the Hebrides nature reserves to leisurely strolls along some of the island's most famous beaches.
Check out more walking routes on the Outer Hebrides website
If you're up for a challenge and wish to take your walking adventure to the next level, the Hebridean Way is a great option to explore the Outer Hebrides natural beauty. The 156-mile-long distance walking route stretches from Vatersay to Stornoway in Lewis, taking you through ten islands, over six causeways and across two ferries.
Cycling
Enjoy a bike ride up the North Harris Hills where you will work your way up the highest hill in the Outer Hebrides before dropping down steeply towards the shores of Loch Seaforth.
The village of Leurbost in Lewis is the meeting point of two popular Scottish island cycling routes which connects with Uig, Bernera, and the Westside or Stornoway and the north.
North of Leurbost is relatively flat for cycling. However, if you choose to cycle on the Isle of Lewis in the Uig and Bernera District, expect to come face to face with some challenging hills.
Bus and coach
The local council provides a good bus service between Monday - Saturday, connecting Stornoway with many of the island's other settlements.
Driving
The roads of Lewis and Harris are generally quiet and many of them are single track, with plenty of passing places.
Traigh Iar Beach Near Horgabost
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Places to stay in Lewis and Harris
Find your perfect accommodation on Lewis and Harris, with a variety of hotels, B&Bs, self-catering, camping and more right across the Outer Hebridean island.
Seared Skye hand-dived scallops on Stornoway black pudding, The Cluanie Inn
Places to eat in Lewis and Harris
Get a flavour of the islands with world-class seafood, Stornoway Black pudding and award-winning gin.
A view of the Isle of Barra from the plane to Benbecula
Find information on accessible trips
From family outings to accessible adventures, many of the islands' attractions are easy to reach and offer a warm, inclusive welcome to all visitors.
Explore nearby
Explore beyond Lewis and Harris – discover the wider Outer Hebrides, the wild beauty of the Highlands, and the charm of Scotland's smaller isles. Wherever you go, breathtaking views and a warm welcome await.
Outer Hebrides
The Scottish Western Isles of the Outer Hebrides are a diverse chain of inter-connected islands with their own unique Hebridean way of life.
12 Small islands trips
Discover day trips you can take to small islands from the Scottish mainland. Including Tiree, Coll, Canna, Rum, Eigg, Muck, Jura, Westray and more.
The Scottish Highlands
Head north for a weekend break or longer holiday in the Highlands, and discover ancient castles, peaceful lochs, and unforgettable views.
Other things you might like
Isle of Barra
North Uist
South Uist
Benbecula
Responsible tourism in the Outer Hebrides
See the best of the Outer Hebrides
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