Landscapes

Swimming, surfing, climbing, gorge scrambling - adventure is waiting for you as you explore one of the most stunning landscapes in the world.

From the Butt of Lewis all the way to Barra, the Outer Hebrides provides some of the breath-taking scenery in the British Isles.  

The islands are studded with world-famous beaches, from the well-known Luskentyre to hidden gems like The Traigh Mhòr.  There are huge sweeping moors to traverse and mountains to climb.  

A 25-minute drive from Lews Castle College will take you to the iconic Callanish Stones, a 5000-year-old stone circle.  The mysterious stones are an incredible combination of history and beauty.  The Calanais Standing Stones and Visitor Centre is open from Tuesday to Saturday at 10am to 4pm, but it is advisable to check ahead before visiting.

Step back in time and visit the brilliantly-preserved Dun Carloway Broch.  The 9-metre tall broch was likely constructed around 200 B.C. and is an impressive example of Iron Age architecture.  Carloway is around a half-hour drive from Lews Castle College.

The Butt of Lewis Lighthouse is an iconic sight on the island.  The lighthouse was constructed in the 1860’s and, unusually for Scottish lighthouses, is composed of red bricks.  The station was one of the last to be automated in the late 1990’s.  For photographers, it makes for a striking focal point - particularly on a windy day, with the waves breaking across it.

No trip to the Outer Hebrides would be complete without exploring some of the many beautiful beaches.  Famous and beautiful Luskentyre is located on the Isle of Harris and is known for its seemingly endless stretches of gorgeous golden sand.  If you’re lucky, you might stumble across some wild ponies!  North Uist is home to the gorgeous Traigh Lingeigh beach, complete with crystal-clear waters and pure white shell sands.  Culla Bay, on the Isle of Benbecula, is a perfect place for birdwatching as you enjoy the beautiful views.  Fancy jumping in those glittering waves?  Well, you can!  Whether you’re a keen wild swimmer or just dipping your toes in the water, there’s nowhere better to do it than our gorgeous, clean beaches. Hebridean Surf can guide you through this surfing paradise and make your stay in the Outer Hebrides even more memorable.

Want a little bit of guidance during your adventure?  The Scaladale Centre in Harris is an activity centre that offers a huge amount of exciting activities.  Bring out your inner Katniss Everdeen with the archery session.  Or, if you prefer a truly wild adventure, why not try abseiling or bushcraft?  The Centre also offers rock climbing, sea or loch kayaking and the chance to truly embrace your adventurous spirit with coasteering and gorge scrambling.

The Outer Hebrides stay with you forever - it is a place like no other.