The crafting and fishing villages strung out along Lewis's northwest coast between Calanais and Port Nis represent one of the most densely populated rural areas in the country and account for two-thirds of the Western Isles' total population.
On this coast you’ll also find the islands' best-preserved prehistoric remains: Charlabhaigh Broch and the Calanais Standing Stones. Charlabhaigh Broch, perches on top of a conspicuous rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, as it has done for almost 2,000 years. Around 5 miles south of Carlabhagh lies the village of Calanais (Callanish), site of one of the islands' most dramatic prehistoric ruins, the Calanais Standing Stones, whose monoliths - nearly 50 of them - occupy a serene lochside setting.
North Lewis is home to a variety of galleries and specialist shops, including Breanish Tweed, a family business which creates shetland wool, lambswool and cashmere. The area also boasts a good range of charming tearooms, cafés and restaurants to dine in.
