Guide to the Outer Hebrides

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Produced by Tourism Hebrides in partnership with Stornoway Port Authority

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Stornoway Port Authority

The Outer Hebrides, A Truly Unique Experience

Fire and Ice..........................3

Wildlife..............................21

Norse.......................................6

Christianity......................24

Celtic.......................................9

Archaeology......................27

Music...................................12

Adventure........................31

The Outer Hebrides A

s one of Europe’s last untouched natural habitats, the Outer Hebrides offer visitors an experience they will never forget. Whether strolling across white sand beaches or among the shadows of 5000-year-old standing stones, the history of the islands is a constant presence.

The beauty of the area is world-renowned as evident by Wanderlust travel magazine featuring the Outer Hebrides as one of the top 100 Greatest Travel Experiences - the only area in Britain to make the list.

From Geology to Christianity, the Outer Hebrides has a diverse, fascinating history and heritage and something to interest everybody. The archipelago is entirely unique - a place where traditional heritage meets contemporary culture to offer an insight into the way of life on the islands over thousands of years.

A number of tours around the largest island in the chain - the Isle of Lewis - are available, starting in the beautiful harbour town of Stornoway.

Arts and Crafts..................14

Walking.............................33

Useful weblinks on page 17 Golf.........................................18

Stornoway Harbour.......36

Fire and Ice

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omprised of rock dating back some 3 billion years, the Outer Hebrides is the oldest rock formation in Britain.

The chain of islands is formed from bedrock of mainly Lewisian Gneiss - named after the Isle of Lewis, the largest in the chain of islands.

Uist Machair ŠLorne GillSNH

The formation of Lewisian Gneiss has been the result of a long and dramatic geological history that is responsible for the stunning scenery of rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches and peaty moors that feature on the Islands today.

Rocks representing all three geological periods in the Mesozoic Era - the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous can be found on the Outer Hebrides, making the islands home to some of the oldest and youngest types of rock in Britain.

The Outer Hebrides that we know today used to be part of an entirely separate continent, joined onto Scandinavia

and North America up until 60 million years ago, when blazing volcanic eruptions tore the continent apart and formed the Atlantic Ocean along Scotland’s western coast.

After the fire came the Ice Age, the rock formation of the Outer Hebrides provides evidence for at least two glaciation periods which left ‘machair’ - a sandy, grassy plain only found near beaches in the north and west of Scotland and Ireland. The Outer Hebrides accounts for almost half of the world’s machair.

The remarkable geological history of the Outer Hebrides can be clearly seen throughout the islands and walking tours of the many beaches and caves provide visitors with a more in-depth look at how the dramatic series of prehistoric events formed the Outer Hebrides.

Butt of Lewis © VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

Suggested Tour Stops Uig, Lewis The area of Uig, lying on the southwest coast of Lewis, is an area of unspoilt natural beauty. White sands and rugged cliffs make up this stunning landscape and the Mangersta sea stacks in Uig portray Lewisian Gneiss at its most stunning, providing a glimpse into how earth looked billions of years ago.

Callanish Standing Stones Perhaps the most famous example of Lewisian Gneiss is the stone circle at Callanish on Lewis. Constructed from the Gneiss around 3000 years ago, the reason behind their existence is still unknown but the breath-taking sight of

the standing stones, some of which are up to five metres tall attracts thousands of visitors to the islands every year. The Visitor Centre provides refreshments for those keen to get a closer look at the stones, and also features a gift shop and exhibition about the history of the standing stones.

Butt of Lewis A perfect example of Lewisian Gneiss and machair can

be found at the Butt of Lewis, the most northerly point of the Outer Hebrides. A lighthouse designed by David Stevenson - famous lighthouse architect and uncle to Robert Louis Stevenson - looks over the Atlantic Ocean from the cliffs, underneath which is a sea cave known as the Sùil an Rubha or ‘Eye of the Butt’ easily viewed from the machair above.

Northton ©Lorne GillSNH

Norse

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cotland has a rich and diverse history, having at times been home to the Celts and Vikings. Nowhere can this diverse heritage be seen as clearly as in the Outer Hebrides.

Between the 9th and 13th Centuries, the Outer Hebrides were ruled by the Norse who began to settle in the Scottish islands. Throughout this period, the islands are often referred to as being part of the ‘Kingdom of Mann and the Isles’, a Norse-ruled area comprising of the Inner and Outer Hebrides, the Islands of the Firth of Clyde and the Isle of Man as well as the Orkney and Shetland Isles.

© www.virtualheb.co.uk

Even after losing control of the Isles in 1266, many of the Norse settlers had married into local families and decided to stay in the home they’d made for themselves in the Outer Hebrides. The Norse influence is so strong in this area that many locals still bear Norse surnames and villages across the island still end in the Norse word ‘bost’ meaning ‘township’.

Physical traces of the Norse still exist today in the Outer Hebrides as testament to the rich industrial history of the islands. As the Norse settled in the area, the dwellings gradually changed from circular buildings to the more modern rectangular shaped housing we still use today. The Arnol Blackhouse, on the Isle of Lewis, is an example of the type of housing that was used on the islands from the days of the Vikings’ settlement up until as recently as the 1970s.

It is not just buildings that were left behind by the Norse. In 1831, a collection of 78 chessmen were found on the Ardroil Sands in Uig, Lewis. The chessmen are mostly carved from walrus ivory, with a few carved from whale teeth and are thought to have been made between 1150 and 1200 AD. Today, the Lewis Chessmen are one of the few complete medieval chess sets left in the world.

Suggested Tour Stops Arnol Blackhouse This old house now serves as a public museum, offering a glimpse into how people used to live on this island up until as recently as the 1970s. Although the buildings in Arnol only date back to the 19th Century, the township has been settled in for over 2000 years and the remains of stone settlements can still be seen by the coast.

Norse Mill and Kiln Powered by water from nearby Loch Roinavat, the Norse Mill and Kiln at Shawbost were used to process barley into meal from the days of the Vikings up until as recently as 1945. The two thatched buildings have been reconstructed, allowing visitors to step inside the mill and catch a glimpse of the technology used for over 800 years by residents of the Isle of Lewis.

Ardroil Sands, Uig The beautiful beach of Ardroil Sands in Uig, Lewis, provides not only stunning scenery but a glimpse into history. A large replica of one of the Lewis Chessmen can be seen here, looking over the area where the seventy-eight pieces of history were discovered nearly 200 years ago.

Arnol Blackhouse © VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

Š Lews Castle College

Celtic

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One of the Callanish Stones

he Celtic roots run deep in the Outer Hebrides and can be clearly seen and heard today in the language, arts and music of the islands.

Although the Dark Ages have made it difficult to determine exactly how the Celtic way of life was in the Outer Hebrides, historians believe that the remains of Neolithic structures on the islands were used by the Celts in later years.

The most well-known of these structures is the Callanish Standing Stones, on the Isle of Lewis, which are thought to have been constructed around 5000 years ago - one thousand years before the construction of Stonehenge. The standing stones complex consists of 50 stones in total, with the inner circle comprising of 13 stones, up to five metres high. Although the exact purpose of the stones’ construction is unclear, many believe that Celtic rituals were carried out there centuries after they were built.

The Celtic history of the Outer Hebrides is evident in the everyday lives of the current islanders who undoubtedly feel proud of their Celtic heritage. Today on the islands, Celtic jewellery - much of which is handmade - is readily available in local shops and the Celtic tradition of the islands is reflected in the art on display in galleries across the islands.

The Gaelic language is testament to the strong Celtic heritage of the Outer Hebrides. Seemingly first brought to the Islands by Celts from Ireland, their language blended with the Old Norse, slowly evolving into the Gaelic spoken on the isles today, slightly different from the Irish Gaelic across the water.

The Celtic legacy on the Outer Hebrides is also clearly

identified in the traditional music of the Isles. Gaelic songs have been passed down through generations of islanders and are often sung at ceilidhs, in concerts and during church services. The Hebridean Celtic Festival, an annual music event showcasing Celtic music from all over the globe, is held in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Suggested Tour Stops An Lanntair The main Art Centre on the Outer Hebrides is situated in the town of Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, overlooking Stornoway Harbour. An Lanntair (Gaelic for ‘Lighthouse’) is an art gallery, cinema, bar/restaurant and music venue and offers a contemporary take on the history and heritage of the Outer Hebrides. The gallery displays artwork created by local artists or inspired by the islands. A strong Celtic influence can often be identified in the artwork and a number of Celtic-inspired products including art prints, books and jewellery can be purchased from the Arts Centre.

The Callanish Stones The Standing Stones at Callanish offer a fascinating insight into the intelligence, strength and dedication that characterized the early inhabitants of the Outer Hebrides and was a site of high importance to the Celts. A visitor centre is situated nearby, offering food and drink, a gift shop, and an exhibition about the history of the stones.

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Morven Gallery Room 3 to Cafe

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Morven Gallery This small but beautiful gallery lies on the rugged north-west coast of Lewis and displays some of the finest art the Outer Hebrides has to offer. The gallery exhibits art inspired by the Outer Hebrides, from Celtic sculptures to modern-day photography, alongside a charming cafĂŠ offering refreshments to visitors.

Music F

amed for its traditional Gaelic music, as well as the skills of local fiddle and accordion players, the Outer Hebrides has become a world-renowned destination for music.

ŠAn Lanntair Keith Hunter

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Lewis Pipe Band

few remaining pipe bands in Scotland who still wear full piping dress during parades. As well as marching during local events and in national competitions, the Lewis Pipe Band also marches through the town centre of Stornoway every Saturday evening from the end of May until the end of August.

Music is as much a part of everyday life in the Outer Hebrides as walking or talking. It has been passed down through generations for centuries and the traditional Gaelic music of the Hebrides can be heard in Churches, shops and bars throughout the isles. An Lanntair in Stornoway is an art gallery and music venue, regularly used by mainstream musicians as well as local music acts.

For the past sixteen years, the Hebridean Celtic Festival has taken place in Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, showcasing the talents of traditional musicians from countries all over the globe including Africa, New Zealand and North America. The festival, which lasts for four nights in July, attracts thousands of people each year and the Outer Hebrides is bustling throughout the duration of the festival as events, concerts and workshops take place across the islands.

As well as the festival, the Lewis Pipe Band is one of the local community’s proudest traditions. The Pipe Band have been marching since 1904 and are one of the

Regular ‘open mic nights’ and ceilidhs play host to the traditional folk music of the fiddle and accordion but the most powerful instrument found on the Outer Hebrides is the voice. Gaelic music has been a cornerstone of Island culture for centuries and nowhere in the world can such an emotive, heartfelt form of music be found so readily than in the Outer Hebrides.

Whether the songs are about the struggles of the islanders during the Highland Clearances or simply a song about the scenery of the isles, Gaelic music connects with the listener in a way few other types of music can. Regardless of whether or not the listener can understand Gaelic, this kind of traditional music is much stronger than just sound, and enables the listener to hear the history and heritage of the people of the Outer Hebrides.

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Harris Tweed Š VisitScotland

s ft a r C & Ar ts T

he Outer Hebrides is home to some of the finest arts and crafts in the world, inspired by the stunning scenery and rich heritage of the chain of islands.

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As the home of Harris Tweed, the archipelago has become something of a fashion hotspot in recent years. The historic tradition of weaving the tweed has turned the Outer Hebrides into the home of one of the most coveted fabrics in the fashion world.

The commercial success of the famous tweed began in the mid-19th Century when the owner of the Isle of Harris sold the fabric, produced on looms in his tenants’ houses, to his associates in London. The trend quickly caught the eye of royalty and the success of the fabric grew from strength to strength. Over the last 150 years, Harris Tweed has become one of the most highly sought after fabrics in the world.

World-class designers including Vivienne Westwood and Calvin Klein have featured it in their clothing lines and celebrities and royalty alike hold the tweed in high esteem.

The beauty of the fabric lies in the production process.

The yarns are produced in the Outer Hebrides using a secret recipe before being sent to the weaver’s home where the fabric is hand-woven using skills passed down through generations. It must then be approved by the Harris Tweed Authority and stamped with their Orb trademark before it can be known as Harris Tweed. This exclusive and historical process has ensured the tweed remains unique, so much so that it is now the only fabric in the world to be governed by its own Act of Parliament.

The Harris Tweed Mill in Shawbost on the Isle of Lewis offers visitors a guided tour of the mill and the Harris Tweed Shop in the centre of Stornoway displays a wide variety of clothing and accessories made from the fabric, all of which is available to purchase.

Many local craftsmen and women use Harris Tweed in their designs, and a number of handmade items are sold in the local shops - from Harris Tweed dolls to handbags and dresses.

A huge variety of other locally made crafts are available, using local products and drawing inspiration from the beautiful surroundings of the Outer Hebrides.

The artwork produced on the island is second to none in Scotland, and portrays the stunning scenery of the islands in awe-inspiring form - through watercolour, sculpture and even quilt-making. A number of galleries across the islands display the local artwork, the largest of which is An Lanntair - an art gallery, cinema and music venue situated in the very centre of Stornoway. More rural galleries showcase art amid the very surroundings that have served as inspiration for it. Morven Gallery on the north west coast of Lewis displays a wide variety of art inspired by the Outer Hebrides while further south on the isle of North Uist, the award-winning Taigh Chearsabhaigh Museum and Art Centre displays and sells locally inspired artwork as well as a collection of over 1000 artefacts relating to the culture and heritage of the isles.

Suggested Tour Stops Carloway Mill As one of the last independent wholesale producers of the fabric, Harris Tweed Textiles offers tours around its

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Borgh Pottery © VisitScotland

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Weblinks mill in Carloway, nearby to the Callanish Standing Stones and the Carloway Broch. The tours allow visitors to see how the world famous tweed is made, and features the traditional loom still used in the manufacturing process.

Harris Tweed products can also be purchased from the Mill.

Morven Gallery This charming art gallery displays a variety of locally produced and inspired artwork. The pieces on display, and available to purchase, range from award-winning wildlife photography to watercolours of the unspoilt landscape of the Outer Hebrides. A cafĂŠ and facilities are also available at the gallery. Due to its size, it is recommended that tours of up to fifteen people visit Morven Gallery.

Borgh Pottery, Borve This quaint pottery workshop and showroom has been operating on the Isle of Lewis for over thirty years. All ceramics featured in the showroom are handmade by the owners of the studio, Alex and Sue Blair. Alongside the pottery business is a stunning garden which has been maintained by the couple for years and is also open to the public. Borgh Pottery can accommodate tours of up to twenty people.

Uig www.uigandbernera.com Callanish Stones www.callanishvisitorcentre.co.uk Arnol Blackhouse www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/lewis/blackhousemuseum Norse Mill and Kiln www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/lewis/norsemill Hebridean Jewellery www.hebrideanjewellery.co.uk An Lanntair www.lanntair.com Morven Gallery www.morvengallery.com Harris Tweed Hebrides (Shawbost Mill & Stornoway shop) www.harristweedhebrides.com Harris Tweed Mill www.harris-tweed.co.uk Borgh Pottery www.borgh-pottery.com Ravenspoint Centre www.ravenspoint.net St Moulag’s Church www.saintmoluag.com Comunn Eachdraidh Nis www.c-e-n.org Dun Carloway www.callanishvisitorcentre.co.uk/dounebroch Bosta Iron Age Village www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/greatbernera/bostadh Surf Lewis www.surflewis.co.uk Seatrek www.seatrek.co.uk

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Golf

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Stornoway Golf Course

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he Outer Hebrides is famous for its beautiful golf courses, offering challenging yet enjoyable games amid some of the most stunning scenery in the world. A total of five courses are available across the chain of islands, all offering a different game and a different glimpse into the unspoilt beauty of the Hebrides.

Stornoway Golf Course www.stornowaygolfclub.co.uk Situated in the only town in the Outer Hebrides, Stornoway Golf Club was founded in 1890 and re-sited to its current location within the stunning grounds of the Lews Castle in 1947.

The 18-hole golf course is well designed and professionally maintained with panoramic views of Stornoway Harbour and the Minch. The clubhouse incorporates a golf shop that provides visitors with a good selection of golfing merchandise, as well as club and trolley hire while a shortgame practice area, putting green, practice nets, locker rooms, and a licensed bar are all open to visitors.

Visitors are always welcome to Stornoway Golf Club where few leave without commenting on the club’s friendliness and the quality of the course.

Benbecula Golf Course www.benbeculagolfclub.co.uk Benbecula golf course is a naturally flat course. As a result of its good condition, it is a popular haunt for visiting golfers who are seeking a game in slightly different surroundings.

The course is maintained by the members and is set on the grasslands of the Uist’s middle island, Benbecula.

There are a number of testing holes for the visiting golfer to discover that will require great judgement and club selection and some natural hazards such as rabbit scrapes to add to the fun of the game. Although only a nine-hole course, there are 18 tees in operation, so the round is anything but repetitive while offering spectacular views of the Monach Isles and Atlantic Ocean.

Askernish Golf Course www.askernishgolfclub.com Askernish, situated on the beautiful island of South Uist, is home to a fine links golf course offering stunning surroundings and an ever-changing challenge for any grade of golfer. First laid out by Old Tom Morris in 1891, before being abandoned in the 1920s, the course has been fully restored to its original position using entirely traditional design principles.

Environmental experts have already hailed Askernish as “the most natural links course in the world”. The dunes’ natural contours form the fairways, no artificial chemicals are used in maintenance, and during winter months sheep and cattle graze the course. The Isle of South Uist, located just south of Benbecula, is nothing short of breath-taking presenting stunning scenery, natural and historic landscapes, unrivalled outdoor access and diverse wildlife.

Barra Golf Course www.isleofbarra.com The Isle of Barra Golf Course is the most westerly in the United Kingdom.

This small yet perfectly formed course, with fantastic views over the Atlantic Ocean, lies on the west coast of the Isle of Barra. It is exceptionally attractive with stunning views out over the Atlantic. The 9-hole course is 2396 yards and has elevated links with natural contours. On machair land, the natural turf provides an excellent playing surface.

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Isle of Harris Golf Course VisitScotland ScottishViewpoint

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Isle of Harris Golf Course www.harrisgolf.com Perhaps Scotland’s finest hidden gem, Nick Faldo once described the course as one of the most beautiful settings in golf after putting a £5 note in the safety deposit box.

The note, now framed and adorning the clubhouse wall, is played for every year as part of a competition. Even Tom Watson and Sean Connery are rumoured to have nipped out for a few holes on this secret golf course.

The beautiful Scarista beach, once famously described as making the Malibu beach “look like a school sandpit”, runs alongside the course providing the most beautiful of settings.

Wildlife A

s one of the last untouched natural landscapes in Europe, the Outer Hebrides showcases some of the finest wildlife in the world, all at home in their surroundings without the fear of poaching, pollution or disturbance of any kind.

Red Deer www.virtualheb.co.uk

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The islands offer a glimpse into a time almost forgotten by the rest of the world, where the whitetailed eagle soars over the rugged coastline as red deer roam proudly over the peaty moorlands and otters swim in the many sea lochs. The vast array of wildlife living side by side is unique and protected, allowing for species as diverse as the minke whale to the golden eagle to thrive in the island environment.

The Outer Hebrides are an ideal location for any birdwatcher and is home to a wide array of birds including seabirds, waders and birds of prey. Golden eagles can regularly be seen soaring above the island while the elusive corncrake can be spotted throughout the Outer Hebrides - home to two thirds of the British corncrake population - between April and September.

The largest land mammal on the archipelago is the red deer, an estimated 4000 of which inhabit Lewis and Harris. The Outer Hebrides is one of the last otter strongholds in Europe and, although they are very shy, guided tours ensure that otters can regularly be spotted. Reaching up to four foot in height, the otters can be seen in sea lochs, especially on the Isle of Lewis but have also been spotted feeding in the surrounding sea of the islands.

The marine life in the Outer Hebrides is some of the richest and most vibrant in the world. A huge collection of sea life can be spotted whilst travelling to the islands over the Minch or just by watching from the cliffs. Porpoises, orca whales, minke whales, basking sharks and numerous species of dolphin have all been sighted in the waters of the Outer Hebrides.

Suggested Tour Stops Ravenspoint Centre The Ravenspoint Centre, overlooking the stunning Loch Erisort, offers a selection of visitor attractions including an exhibition on golden and sea eagles, as well as a cafĂŠ, historical exhibitions and a community shop offering locally produced goods. The centre is situated in the South Lochs area of Lewis which is one of the best wildlife-watching spots in the Outer Hebrides. A number of guided tours are available around the area, starting from Ravenspoint Centre.

The Centre accommodates tours of up to thirty people.

Uig The spectacular area of Uig on the southwest of Lewis is the ideal habitat for some of the area’s rarest wildlife. The rugged cliffs are home to rare birds including the white-tailed eagle while herds of red deer roam the Uig hills.

Butt of Lewis The most northerly point of the Outer Hebrides is home to an extensive array of wildlife, especially birds and cetaceans. Seabirds including the black guillemot and kittiwake make their homes in the rocky cliffs, while whales, porpoises and dolphins swim in the sea below.

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Sea eagle fishing ©RSPB

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Christianity

Alexander Macleod’s Tomb, St Clements Church Š VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

ince the introduction of Christianity to the Outer Hebrides around 600AD, religion has been a cornerstone of island life.

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A number of historical sites across the islands pay heed to the Christian history and heritage of the Outer Hebrides.

The remains of the islands’ first churches can still be seen today; many of them dating back to medieval times.

The largest medieval church is St Clements Church in Rodel, Harris. Although it was built in the 16th Century, some archaeologists believe that an older monastery existed on the same site. The Church was restored in 1873 but was originally built by Alexander Macleod, 8th Chief of Harris and Dunvegan, whose stone-carved tomb can still be seen in the Church today.

One of the oldest Church ruins in the Outer Hebrides can be found on a small island on Loch Erisort, on the east coast of Lewis. Eilean Chaluim Chille, or the Island of Saint Columbus, is home to the remains of a 12th Century Church. Archaeologists have found preChristian, Christian and Norse remains on the island, which was used as a graveyard by the Parish of Lochs up until the 19th Century.

Christianity is evident in almost all aspects of island life. The Presbyterian northern islands practice Sabbath

Day observance in which most retail establishments are closed on a Sunday. As a result, the Outer Hebrides is home to a traditional yet friendly community and a peaceful environment, a world away from the hustle and bustle of mainland Europe.

Suggested Tour Stops Saint Columba’s Church A number of religious sites across the Outer Hebrides are named after Saint Columba, who is widely believed to have brought Christianity to the isles in the 6th Century. This church, situated on the area of Point on the east coast of Lewis, was built in the late 14th 25

St. Moluag Church ©Donald McKee

Although the religion is predominantly Protestant in the northern isles of Lewis, Harris and North Uist, the southern Isles of South Uist, Benbecula and Barra are mainly Catholic. This has caused little division amongst inhabitants however, who have lived peacefully side-byside for centuries.

Century and extended in the 15th and 16th Centuries.

It is believed to have been the main church on Lewis throughout the medieval times and nineteen of the Clan Macleod Chiefs are buried there.

St Clements Church, Rodel © VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

Saint Moulag’s Chapel The exact time of this church’s construction is unknown, but local folklore suggests that Saint Moulag may have visited the site as early as the 6th Century.

The church has since been restored and is still used for services today. It lies in Eoropie, the most northerly township in the Outer Hebrides and a nearby museum, Comunn Eachdraidh Nis, displays thousands of documents and photographs providing an insight into the social history of the area.

Uig Peninsula Uig, on the west coast of Lewis, is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the world as well as a rich Christian history. The remains of a church, known as Taigh a’Bheannaich (Gaelic for ‘The House of Blessing’), can be seen in this area of natural beauty.

The chapel is situated high on a cliff overlooking the sea and differs from other churches on the islands as it was not dedicated to any particular Saint.

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Archaeology

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he Outer Hebrides has been a site of great interest for archaeologists and has offered a vast amount of information about what Scotland was like throughout history.

Carloway Broch

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Neolithic stone structures, medieval churches and even mummies have all been found on the archipelago and many archaeological sites are open to the public to explore.

A number of prehistoric stone circles have been found on the Outer Hebrides, the most prolific of which is undoubtedly the Callanish Standing Stones. Situated on the west coast of the Isle of Lewis, the standing stones are made of Lewisian Gneiss, a metamorphic rock thought to be around 3 billion years old. The stones were constructed around 5000 years ago, even before the Egyptian Pyramids were built. The purpose of the standing stones’ existence is still unknown although excavation in the 1980s found that a burial tomb had been added to the stones sometime after they had been constructed.

Another site of high archaeological importance can be found nearby to the Callanish Stones on the Isle of Lewis. Dun Carloway is one of the most wellpreserved Brochs in Britain. The purpose of Brochs is still unknown but they are widely believed to have been built for and occupied by a wealthy, powerful family during the Iron Age. Standing at nearly seven metres tall (although archaeologists estimate it originally stood at 13m), Dun Carloway is thought to have been constructed around 2000 years ago and the thickness of the walls (up to 3 metres) suggests that it would once have been used as

a defensive structure, protecting residents from attacks on their township.

Further south in the chain of islands, while King Tutankhamen was being buried seemingly the residents of South Uist were too, as evidenced by the discovery of prehistoric mummies in the Outer Hebrides.

In Cladh Hallan, South Uist, two mummies were found during excavation between 1989 and 2002. The mummies of a male and female who died around 1600BC and 1300BC respectively were part of a much larger Neolithic community on the island. A great deal of mystery surrounds the mummies.

During excavations and tests, it was discovered that they were preserved in peat bogs for 6-18 months after their deaths and were not actually buried until around 1120BC. The reason for this is unknown but archaeologists have found evidence to suggest that the mummies were retrieved from the peat bogs and displayed in a dwelling of some kind, perhaps suggesting that they were once people of high importance and religious significance.

The archaeological work undertaken in the Outer Hebrides has provided us with invaluable information about the fascinating history of the Isles. Work is still underway today to try and uncover some of the mysteries surrounding the first inhabitants of the Outer Hebrides and many more ancient discoveries will undoubtedly continue to be unearthed.

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Suggested Tour Stops Callanish Standing Stones These towering stones - built before Stonehenge - are an awe-inspiring sight and offer a glimpse into the determination and strength of our ancestors. A visitor centre stands alongside the stone circle and includes a cafĂŠ, gift shop and exhibition on the history of the stones.

Callanish ŠLorne GillSNH

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Dun Carloway The unbelievably well-preserved Broch at Carloway provides visitors with a chance to step inside a building first used around 2000 years ago. The nearby Doune Broch Centre provides visitors with more information about the dwelling, as well as refreshments and toilets.

The centre is open Monday-Saturday from April to September and the Broch itself is open to the public all year round, free of charge.

Bosta Iron Age Village Nearby to Uig, in the area of Bosta, lies an Iron Age village dating from 600-700AD. The site was uncovered in 1992 after a severe storm on Bosta Beach eroded the sand dunes the village was buried beneath. The site was excavated by archaeologists who discovered a total of nine buildings connected by tunnels. Due to the site’s exposed location, it has since been backfilled with sand to protect it from weather damage but a reconstruction of one dwelling is open to visitors and provides an insight into the extraordinary settlement.

Bosta iron age house Š www.virtualheb.co.uk

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Adventure

he coastal areas of the Outer Hebrides provide countless opportunities for sports and adventure.

From surfing to sailing, there is something for everyone to do, with the backdrop of the islands’ spectacular scenery.

Surf Isle of Lewis Š VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

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Surfing With its rugged coastline, over seventy beautiful beaches, and sparkling, pollution-free sea, the Outer Hebrides has become one of the top surfing destinations in the world. The Isle of Lewis receives swells from almost every direction, making it one of the most consistent surf spots in Europe. A number of instructors are available throughout the year for those wishing to try the unbeatable surf of the Outer Hebrides.

Sea Kayaking Kayaking in the Outer Hebrides offers an endless supply of discoveries. Whether exploring the hundreds of lochs, caves and sea stacks on the islands, or simply going for a paddle in the beautiful Stornoway Harbour, with the stunning grounds of the Lews Castle as a backdrop, the sights and experiences are fascinating.

Kayaking also offers much to the wildlife enthusiast, allowing access to the habitat of the rare seabirds and marine life that thrive in the Outer Hebrides. Local instructors regularly run day trips for people of every skill level, from complete beginners to professionals.

Seatrek ŠMurrayMacleod

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Boat Trips Boat trips around the isles are available for up to 14 people at a time and vary in length from 2-6 hours.

These excursions provide visitors with an opportunity to see the sea stacks, caves, lagoons and wildlife of the Outer Hebrides in great depth. Based around the area of Uig on the west coast of Lewis, the spectacular scenery of clear, turquoise water and sandy white beaches are matched only by those of the Caribbean.

Walking

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alking around the Outer Hebrides provides an opportunity to see the unspoilt beauty of Europe’s hidden gem. From the empty white beaches to the peaty moorland, through abandoned villages and castle grounds, the islands offer a fascinating insight into the changing landscape of the Outer Hebrides over billions of years.

Harris ŠLorne GillSNH

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The walking guides on the islands are equipped with local knowledge, from folklore to archaeological facts, and guided walks are available for people of all abilities.

Suggested Tour Stops South Lochs The South Lochs area is an excellent spot for walking. As one of the best wildlife-watching areas on the island, guided tours around the area offer an opportunity to see some of Scotland’s rarest animals and birds including the otter and golden eagle. The nearby Ravenspoint Visitor Centre also offers booklets to visitors, detailing in great depth some of the walks that can be enjoyed without a guide, including an exploration of the village of Steimreway, abandoned in the 1940s.

West Lewis A coastal walk along the west side of Lewis is offered by tour guides on the island, taking in a diverse array of sights including the stunning Loch Roag, the Callanish Standing Stones and the reconstruction of an Iron Age Mill.

Isle of Harris White sand beaches and green seas surround the stunning Isle of Harris, often voted as having some of the best beaches in the world by travel writers and publications. Despite their fame, the beaches on the Outer Hebrides are far from overcrowded - The Guardian newspaper rated Luskentyre Beach on Harris as the quietest in Britain. For mountaineering enthusiasts, the Isle of Harris is home to the Outer Hebrides’ highest peak, The Clisham. At 2,621 feet high, it is the only Corbett on the Island chain and is easily accessed from the main road between Lewis and Harris.

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Seilebost © VisitScotland Scottish Viewpoint

Stornoway, the only town in the Outer Hebrides, is the starting point for all tours but hours can be spent just exploring this beautiful harbour town. The stunning Grounds of the Lews Castle plays backdrop to the town and walking tours are available through the woodland area.

Creed river walk, Stornoway

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Stornoway Port Authority Amity House Esplanade Quay, Stornoway, Isle of Lewis Western Isles, Scotland, UK HS1 2XS Telephone: +44 (0) 1851 702688 Fax: +44 (0) 1851 705714 www.stornoway-portauthority.com

Stornoway Harbour T

he Port of Stornoway is the gateway to the beautiful Outer Hebrides and is well equipped to accommodate cruise ships and passengers.

The primary cruise liner facility is at Number 3 Pier, capable of taking vessels up to 140 metres length with maximum draft 6.5 metres. Reception facilities are readily available in the main Ferry Terminal adjacent to this berth. Smaller vessels may be accommodated at the Number 1 Pier although there are limited facilities at this berth. A cruise liner tender landing pontoon is available by the Ferry Terminal at number 3 pier.

Stornoway Airport is located 4km from the Port, linking the island by Air with Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Edinburgh.

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Ferry Terminal, Stornoway

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Anchorages

Outer Anchorage: No limit to the size of vessels, depth 17.0m.

Inner Anchorage: Maximum 165m. length, draft 6.5m., tonnage 18,000GT.

Berthing

West No.1 Pier (Ro/Ro Berth) Length 128.0m. Depth 7.6m. to 4.5m.

Linkspan: Splayed end 5.8m. Length 36.58m.

Width 3.66m. between rails.

East No.3 Pier Length 140.0m. Depth 6.5m.

North Beach Quay Length 175.0m. Depth 4.0m. to 2.4m.

Cromwell Street Quay Length 259.0m. Depth 2.4m.

Arnish Pier Length 100.0m. Depth 6.5m.

East No.1 Pier Length 130.0m. Depth 7.3m. to 1.0m.

Esplanade Quay Length 122.0m. Depth 5.2m. to 4.5m East No.2 Pier (Tanker Berth) Length 70.0m. Depth 5.2m. to 1.0m

No. 3 Pontoon, Stornoway

West No.2 Pier Length 80.0m. Depth 5.2m. to 1.0m West No.3 Pier (Ro/Ro Berth) Length 140.0m. Depth 6.5m.

Linkspan: Splayed end 11m. Length 42.5m Width 5m. between rails.

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Bunkering

Large vessels are bunkered by road tankers at No 3 Pier, No 2 Pier and Esplanade Quay. There is a fuelling facility at the North end of Esplanade Quay, operated

by Stornoway Port Authority on behalf of Western Isles Council, for fuelling Fishing Vessels and Leisure craft.

Cargo Handling

Mobile cranes available.

Fish Market

The port has a fish market (which is fully EU compliant ECD91/493/EC) and a comprehensive infrastructure of support services for the fishing industry.

Local Services

to take a pilot (Pilotage Exemption Certificates are available on application).

Reporting

Commercial vessels should notify Stornoway Port Authority of their arrival details, using the Notification form which can be downloaded from the Port Authority website at www.stornoway-portauthority.com.

Slipway Services

The Main Slipway cradle accommodates vessels up to 50m. long and 10m. beam. Displacement weight 850 tonnes.

The Side Berths accommodate vessels up to 40m. long and 10m. beam. Displacement weight one at 400 tonnes and one at 200 tonnes.

Chandlery, Charts, Electrical and Engineering Repairs, Electronic and Radio Repairs, Fish Salesmen, Fresh Water, Haulage, Ice Suppliers, Licensed Divers, Marine Engineers, Mobile Crane Hire, Shipping Agents, Ship Repairers, Ship’s Stores, Tank Washing, and Waste Disposal are all available. See Useful Contacts or contact the Harbour Master.

Search & Rescue

Pilotage

There is a range of 5.0m. at spring tides and 2.0m. at neap tides.

Compulsory for vessels carrying Dangerous Goods in bulk and for Passenger Ships in excess of 5000gt.

Licensed Pilots available for other vessels on request.

Vessels engaged in specific operations which may restrict their ability to manoeuvre, will be required

Stornoway has an MRCC (Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre) with an emergency tug available and an RNLI (ALB) lifeboat station. A Search and Rescue helicopter is based at Stornoway airport.

Tidal Range

Vhf Radio Communication

V.H.F. radio telephone Channels 16 and working channel 12.

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Ferry Terminal interior

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