Isle of lewis - Tolsta Chaolais | Self Catering | Holiday Cottages
The village is close to renowned sites of historical and archaelogical
interest. The Callanish Stones , the Duncarloway Broch
, the Garenin Black
Houses
and the Norse Mill
at Shawbost are all within ten miles or so. St
Clement's Church
, in Harris, is easily accessible as a day trip through
stunning scenery.
The west coast of Lewis has the finest beaches that one could wish for.
Vast stretches of sand are bordered by clear waters and grassy land
(machair) covered in a variety of wild flowers. These are not crowded
beaches; in fact it is easy to think that you are the only person enjoying
the call of the wild.
Dalmore beach is perhaps one of the best surfing venues in the Outer
Hebrides and is only six miles away. Loch Roag itself is relatively
sheltered and offers opportunities for canoeing, windsurfing, sailing and
fishing. For those who wish to venture further, boat trips to St Kilda -
famous for its sea cliffs and bird life - can be arranged locally.
Lewis is in many ways an angler's paradise. Many of the island lochs are
well known for their stocks of brown trout and sea fishing can be enjoyed
from shore or boat. Salmon fishing is available on the Carloway River
system and also through Stornoway Angling Club.
Lewis presents the bird-watcher with many opportunities to spot garden,
moorland and woodland birds. The village loch in Tolsta Chaolais, Loch a'
Bhaile, attracts whooper swans and geese, while different types of duck
and waterfowl nest by the loch from year to year.
Stornoway, the island's main commercial centre, has all the facilities
that most people would need. These include a fine Arts Centre (An
Lanntair), coffee shops, restaurants and hotels. There are many shops and
businesses which offer a wide range of goods and services.
Local smokehouses offer a fine selection of fish, including kippers and
salmon. Local produce also includes fresh fish and shellfish.
The island's wonderful scenery has clearly inspired many local artists,
whose work is on display in shops and galleries. Morvern Galleries , on the west side of Lewis, has a superb display by local artists, painters,
sculptors, jewellery makers and woodturners.
Lewis ought to cater for most people's idea of a good holiday, whether
that involves activities or simply relaxation.