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Our favourite winter activities on the Isle of Lewis...
The Western Isles are phenomenal all year round, but the autumn and winter seasons reveal a hidden beauty which is attracting a growing number of guest’s year on year. So pack your waterproof jacket, a large flask and a thirst for adventure and book your unforgettable trip to the magical Isle of Lewis.
Here are our top things to do when visiting this winter:
1. Spectate the incredible wildlife displays
Lovers of wildlife know that the autumn and winter months are the best times to witness some truly majestic wildlife displays. Whales are generally seen from the end of September onwards, and taking a boat trip around the island is a good (and fun!) way to spot one. Even if you don’t get to see one of these marvellous creatures, you won’t be left disappointed; dolphins, puffins, seals and otters are also frequently spotted roaming the seas. From the end of September there is an eerie but magical thing called the ‘Deer Rut’ on the Isle of Harris, where the stags and hinds come together for the breeding season.
2. The start of the Outer Hebridean festivities
The Western Isles community has a charming, festive atmosphere in the winter months which means lots of Ceilidh music nights, prosecco drinking and twinkling Outer Hebridean decorations. Lews Castle is a truly enchanting place to visit during this period. Discover the island in the day and retreat to decadent luxury, sampling great food and perhaps a festive Harris G&T from our Whisky Bar. The perfect place to soak up the bustling, festive atmosphere. If you’re looking to pick up some special gifts for your loved ones in preparation for Christmas, we’d recommend visiting Harris Tweed Shop or perhaps going to the Harris Gin Distillery for a bottle of the celebrated island gin.
3. Explore the white, powdery beaches
As the Winter months draw the weather drops but the beaches still resemble a coastline you might see in the Caribbean. The water is a crystal-clear blue, and the mountain landscape looks even more spectacular in the crisp winter air. As the Outer Hebrides enjoys a micro-climate of its own, you can still expect to see the sunshine in the colder months. Luskentyre Beach, on the neighbouring Isle of Harris, is one to pencil into your itinerary. Voted as one of the best beaches in the world, you really need to see it to believe it. What’s great about visiting the Isle of Lewis is that you are never more than 20 minutes away from a beach. The Garry Beach in Tolsta is a particularly lovely one (and we feel is also extremely underrated, considering how beautiful it is). Just 10 minutes from the historical Lews Castle, there’s no better time to book your winter stay…
Call our concierge team on 01625 416 430 to book your winter escape or browse all of our luxury cottage holidays here.