North and South Lochs
Named for the numerous fresh- and saltwater lochs that dot the rugged landscape and provide a rich and diverse habitat for wildlife, the North and South Lochs area of Lewis offers visitors a real walk on the wild side.
Encompassing part of the Pairc district – an area which takes its name from the fact that it was previously managed as the deer park for the nearby estate – the area is favourite destination for nature lovers.
North and South Lochs are home to some of the island’s most sought-after sights. From Red Deer to Red Throated Divers, Otters to Osprey, and Brown Trout to Buzzards and the area offers ample opportunities to observe animals at home in their Hebridean habitats.
Visit the viewpoint at Orinsay to look across to the uninhabited Shiant isles and spot some of The Minch’s stunning marine life, including sharks, whales and dolphins, or head for spots near the crofting settlements of Grimshader and Ranish for more stunning seascapes.
Take a scenic drive through Marvaig, Calbost and Gravir with views across the sea to St Columba’s Isle, or hike the coastal walk to the deserted township of Stemreway – which serves as a reminder that, while wildlife flourishes in the Lochs, Isle of Lewis communities in this area have throughout the centuries faced a valiant struggle for survival.
Experience echoes of the Lochs’ proud past at the Ravenspoint Visitors Centre, where you can see collections dedicated to those who emigrated from this isolated area in search of a new life in Patagonia (Argentina) alongside galleries of school photographs from the mid 20th Century chronicling the crofting families who remained and fought for their way of life.
Head to the community hub at Balallan, Kinloch Historical Society have a great museum and cafe. Here you can also hold a piece of history in your hands as the centre also houses a unique museum collection that allows you to touch and explore crofting, fishing and community artefacts to gain a better understanding of local tradition and life in the Lochs, as well as being the base of the Islands Book Trust.
