Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland, United Kingdom

Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides, was founded by Vikings in the 9th century. Hebridean culture goes back much further in time, as testified by the circles of standing stones that are found on the island, and shards of pottery dated from at least 5,000 years in the past. There are remnants of various historic periods to be seen here, including traditional blackhouses, an ancient design, some of which were incredibly still in use into the 1970s. Lews Castle, overlooking the town, is a more modern copy of a Tudor manse, which was built by a former owner of the island. Latta’s Mill, a 19th century overshot water mill, has been reconstructed and operates as an attraction. The main occupations on Lewis are fishing, farming, and production of Harris Tweed, a traditional cloth named for another nearby Hebridean isle.

INCLUDED EXPEDITION EXPERIENCES:
*Please note this expedition experience is exclusively available on our expedition ships, Seabourn Venture or Seabourn Pursuit. All shore excursions shared here are subject to availability and are weather and conditions permitting."

Ancient Lewis & Blackhouse Village: Embark from Stornoway to Callanish, often likened to Scotland's Stonehenge, dating back to 3000BC. The 32 stones form a captivating circular and avenue design, believed to have been erected for astronomical observations. Stop at Dun Carloway Pictish Broch, a defensive residence from the last century BC. Venture north to Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, a reconstructed settlement of traditional blackhouses with their thatched roofs, where people and animals once cohabited. Soak in the wild Atlantic coast's dramatic vistas as you conclude your circular tour.