Discover the largest island in Scotland on this 3-day tour to Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides, starting and ending in Inverness. Head straight to Ullapool to take the ferry ton Stornoway, keeping your eyes peeled for whales and dolphins. Visit the historic Arnol Blackhouse and take in the island's best beaches, cliffs and rural landscapes. See the ancient Calanais Stone Circle before taking the ferry back to the mainland, and returning to Inverness.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Lewis & Lighthouses
Inverness - Ullapool - Stornoway. This morning, we depart Inverness, heading straight to Ullapool, where we catch our ferry to the largest island of the Outer Hebrides, Lewis and Harris. This scenic journey takes us along Loch Broom, past the Summer Isles, and onwards to Stornoway, the capital of the Outer Hebrides. Keep an eye out during the crossing; there’s a chance to spot dolphins and whales.
Upon arrival on Lewis and Harris, our first stop delves into ancient history. We travel to the North West of the island to explore the ‘blackhouse’ at Arnol, immersing ourselves in the daily lives of Highland crofting families. Continuing through crofting communities, we reach the northernmost tip of the island, the Butt of Lewis, where the lighthouse offers breath-taking views of crashing waves against rugged cliffs. Finally, we return to Stornoway for our overnight stay.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:00 (tour departs at 08:15) - Inverness Pick Up, Bus stop next to Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, Inverness, IV3 5NS.
Accommodation: Dunroamin, Hebridean Guest House, Twenty Seven or similar.
Overnight: Stornoway
Harris & Luskentyre Beach
This morning, we journey south to Harris, where towering mountains greet us. Our guide shares local traditions and tales as we navigate through these impressive landscapes. Amidst sparse towns, we pause for lunch after exploring unspoiled beaches and scenic vistas.
We encounter one of the Hebrides' gems: Luskentyre beach, where turquoise waters and pristine white sands create a stunning sight on clear days. After soaking in these natural wonders, we return to Stornoway. Perhaps tonight, it’s time to indulge in the famous local delicacy, black pudding, for dinner.
Accommodation: Dunroamin, Hebridean Guest House, Twenty Seven or similar.
Overnight: Stornoway | Breakfast
Calanais Standing Stones
Stornoway - Inverness. Today, we delve into the ancient past as we encounter the Calanais Standing Stones, mystical megaliths dating back 5,000 years, shrouded in mystery. Leaving this historic site behind, we venture into the breath-taking west of Lewis and Harris, where our driver-guide charts a unique course tailored to the weather and our group's interests.
After a morning filled with exploration, we return to Stornoway for our ferry journey back to the mainland. As we bid farewell to the island, we reflect on its rich Gaelic heritage while crossing the Minch. Continuing our journey, we head towards Inverness, arriving in the evening.
Please note:*The Calanais stones will be closed from 26 October 2024. This will affect tours departing between 25-29 Oct 2024. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Please note: This tour ends at 19:00 - Inverness Drop Off, Bus stop next to Inverness Cathedral, Ardross Street, Inverness, IV3 5NS.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Bed & Breakfast, Stornoway
On this tour, you will stay in bed and breakfast properties (B&Bs). These are usually smaller residential properties, with just a handful of guest rooms. You’ll have a bedroom, bathroom and often, access to a communal dining room for breakfast. Rooms will always be clean and comfortable, with a private bathroom. Bathrooms are usually en-suite, but on rare occasions, access may be via a communal hallway. This means that the bathroom will still be private and only for your personal use, but it is not en-suite (located in the room). You will need to leave the room to use the bathroom.
Dunroamin B&B , Stornoway
Dunroamin is a small, family-run bed and breakfast, centrally located in the heart of Stornoway, set around a bustling and picturesque harbour. All rooms are equipped with central heating, colour TVs, radio alarms, hairdryers, and tea and coffee-making facilities, along with free Wi-Fi access.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room.
At a Glance
