Virgin Voyages' guide to Stornoway, Isle Of Lewis, Scotland
Located on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Herbides, a chain of Scottish Islands – Stornoway is a charming fishing village steeped in Gaelic history, Scottish tradition & sprawling Natural landscapes of rugged Mountains and crashing waves.
Scotland’s Rugged Tranquil Island Oasis
Located on the shoulder of the Isle of Lewis, in the heart of the Outer Hebrides island chain, Stornoway is a charming harbor town where the verdant Scottish wilderness meets Gaelic history, fishing village traditions and rolling ocean waves. Originally named Stjórnavágr by Norsemen, Stornoway was once an oasis for sailors looking to shelter from storms, trade goods and re-up on fishing supplies.
Feel the unique touch of Harris Tweed, a cloth woven exclusively here and sold in shops throughout town, settle into one of the welcoming cafes for a cup of tea, take in live music at a pub or travel beyond the town walls to the luscious surrounding areas – from the ancient Callanish Standing Stones and The Gearrannan Blackhouse Village to the sprawling empty beaches of Tolsta and the white sand of Harris. Whether it’s the warm locals, the fact that everything shuts down on Sundays or its surprisingly remote location, Stornoway is certain to bring you peace, as well as a new outlook on what Scotland can look like.
Shore Excursions
Stornoway Sights
Iron Age architecture, single malt magic & colossal castles.
Carloway Broch and the Isle of Lewis
Drive along the Atlantic coastal road and head northward to Carloway where you'll find the best preserved broch in the Hebrides. Built around 200 BC, Carloway Broch is an impressive example of Iron Age architecture, sitting high on a rocky outcrop with wide views for miles around. The broch features two concentric walls with a staircase or gallery within the walls leading to the upper floors. Enjoy a guided tour of this impressive structure.
Isle of Harris Distillery
Embark on an intimate tour of the Isle of Harris Distillery, guided by a knowledgeable host. The tour includes a tasting session where you can savor the recently released Hearach Single Malt Whisky and the multi-award-winning Isle of Harris Gin. Throughout the tour, you'll feel immersed in the local culture and breathtaking scenery of the Isle of Harris.
Lews Castle Walking Tour
Start the day by walking along the coastal path, where you can admire scenic views across the bay as you approach the castle grounds. Visit the Museum and Archive at Lewis Castle, one of the most exciting and innovative projects completed in the Outer Hebrides. During your castle visit, you'll learn how the Outer Hebrides are shaped by a unique combination of land, sea, and people, and how people have lived and worked here from the earliest times to the present day.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Don’t fall asleep counting sheep!
Sheep outnumber people in Stornoway – by far!
Once a sheltered harbor dedicated to fishing and farming, Stornoway is now not only a beacon for traditional businesses, but has expanded to cater to the tourists who have been flocking to the area in recent years. Visit the beautiful Lews Castle, one of several museums, go on a guided swimming or boat tour where outdoor adventure meets local wildlife, or have a pint at one of the locally owned cafes.
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