Self catering is the most common way to stay on the Isles of Lewis and Harris, and for anything longer than a couple of nights it is usually both cheaper and easier than bed and breakfast. Cottages range from small croft houses to large modern builds with sea views, and the great majority are let directly by their owners.
Self Catering in the Western Isles of Lewis and Harris
An example: 6 Laxay, Isle of Lewis
One property on Lewis that shows what a typical island cottage offers is 6 Laxay, a three-bedroom house above Loch Erisort about fifteen minutes from Stornoway, sleeping six and taking dogs in an enclosed garden. It is listed in full on our 6 Laxay page, alongside other cottages in the self-catering directory. Visit https://www.6laxay.co.uk for more info, to check availability and to book.
The area is famous for its rugged coastlines, white sandy beaches, and rich history. Self-catering properties in the Western Isles offer a unique opportunity to explore this stunning region at your own pace.
Self-catering properties in the Western Isles range from cosy cottages to luxurious holiday homes. Many of these properties are located in remote and secluded areas, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind. They offer a perfect base for exploring the islands and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
One of the biggest advantages of self-catering properties in the Western Isles is the flexibility they offer. Visitors have the freedom to plan their own itinerary, cook their own meals, and explore the islands at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families with young children or groups of friends who want to enjoy a more relaxed holiday.
Self-catering properties in the Western Isles are equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. They usually have a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable bedrooms, and a cosy living area. Some properties also offer additional amenities such as a private garden, a hot tub, or a sauna.
The Western Isles offer a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy, including hiking, cycling, fishing, and water sports. Many self-catering properties are located near popular hiking trails, fishing spots, or beaches. This makes it easy for visitors to explore the surrounding area and take part in their favourite activities.
The Western Isles are also steeped in history and culture, with many ancient ruins, museums, and galleries to explore. Visitors can learn about the islands’ rich history and cultural heritage by visiting the many museums and galleries scattered throughout the region.
Self-catering properties in the Western Isles are available throughout the year, making them the perfect destination for a summer holiday or a winter getaway. The islands are particularly popular with visitors who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.
A few things are worth knowing before you book. Most cottages change over on a Saturday and want a full week in July and August. Supermarket shopping means Stornoway or Tarbert, so plan a big shop on arrival rather than expecting a village shop nearby. Mobile signal is patchy away from the main road, though most properties now have broadband. And check the ferry timetable before you fix your dates, because a cancelled sailing in bad weather can cost you a day at either end.
Individual cottages are listed in our self-catering directory, and the booking sites and agencies worth using are covered on where to book self catering.
In short
Self catering is the most common way to stay on the Isles of Lewis and Harris and is usually cheaper than bed and breakfast for anything longer than a couple of nights. Most cottages are let directly by their owners, want a full week in July and August, and change over on a Saturday. Main food shopping is in Stornoway or Tarbert. Broadband is now widespread, often via Starlink, but mobile signal is patchy away from the main road.
Frequently asked questions
When should I book a self-catering cottage on Lewis or Harris?
For July and August, book as early as you reasonably can, ideally six months to a year ahead. Most properties want a full week in high season and change over on a Saturday. Outside those months you will find far more availability and shorter stays are usually accepted.
Do self-catering cottages on the islands have broadband?
Most now do, and a growing number have Starlink, which works well even in places where fixed broadband does not reach. Mobile signal is far less reliable and drops away quickly once you leave the main road, so check with the owner if you need to work.
Where do you do the food shopping?
Stornoway on Lewis and Tarbert on Harris have the main supermarkets. Village shops elsewhere are small and have limited opening, particularly on Sundays, so most people do a large shop on the day they arrive.
Are self-catering cottages on Lewis and Harris dog friendly?
Many are, but it varies property by property and the dog-friendly ones book first. Say when you enquire that you are bringing a dog rather than assuming, and check whether the garden is enclosed.
Is self catering cheaper than bed and breakfast on the islands?
For a family, a group, or any stay of a week or more, yes, usually by a considerable margin once you account for meals. For one or two people staying two or three nights, bed and breakfast is normally simpler and cheaper.