Travel to the Hebrides (Isle of Lewis)
Planning how to travel to the Hebrides is easier than you might expect. Whether you choose to fly or take the ferry, reaching the Isle of Lewis is straightforward — and part of the experience.
From the moment you begin your journey, the pace begins to slow. By the time you arrive at Meadowcroft Cottage, you’ll already feel a world away from everyday life.
How to Get to the Isle of Lewis
There are two main ways to travel to the Isle of Lewis: by plane or by ferry. Both are reliable, scenic, and well connected to mainland Scotland.
Flights to the Isle of Lewis
The fastest way to reach the Hebrides is by flying into Stornoway Airport.
Direct flights operate regularly from:
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
Flight time is typically around one hour.
Loganair maintains flights to and from Stornoway.
On arrival, you’ll find car hire available at the airport, making it easy to reach Meadowcroft Cottage and explore the island at your own pace.
Ferry to Stornoway
Taking the ferry to the Isle of Lewis is one of the most popular and scenic ways to travel to the Hebrides.
The main route runs from:
- Ullapool Ferry Terminal to Stornoway Harbour
Caledonian MacBrayne runs the ferry service from Ullapool to Stornoway.
There is also a ferry from Uig on Skye to Tarbert, Isle of Harris
Bring your own car, relax onboard, and enjoy views across the Minch as you approach the islands.
BOOK WELL IN ADVANCE FOR ALL ROUTES.
From Journey to Arrival
Travelling to the Hebrides is part of the experience — not just a means of getting here.
Whether you arrive by air or sea, the transition is gradual. Landscapes open up, roads quieten, and the rhythm of life begins to slow.
By the time you arrive at Meadowcroft Cottage, you’ll already feel the difference.
Plan Your Hebrides Stay
Once your travel is arranged, the rest is simple.
Explore availability and start planning your stay on the Isle of Lewis.
You can also discover more on our
Things to Do on the Isle of Lewis and Hebridean Adventures pages.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Hebrides
- Book ferries in advance during peak season
- Check weather conditions before travelling
- Allow extra time for journeys — this is not a place to rush
Best Time to Visit the Hebrides
The Hebrides offer something unique in every season:
- Spring & Summer – longer daylight hours, wildlife activity, milder weather
- Autumn – dramatic skies, rich colours, fewer visitors
- Winter – peaceful, atmospheric, ideal for a true escape
Each season brings a different perspective on the island.
Driving to Ullapool (Ferry Route)
If you’re travelling by ferry, the main route is via Ullapool on Scotland’s west coast.
The drive from Inverness takes around 1 hour 30 minutes and is widely considered one of the most scenic routes in the Highlands.
Expect:
- quiet roads
- lochside views
- dramatic mountain scenery
Allow extra time — this is a journey worth enjoying.
You can also travel up through Skye and catch the ferry in Uig.
Plan Your Hebrides Stay
Once your travel is arranged, the rest is simple.
Explore availability and start planning your stay on the Isle of Lewis.
You can also discover more on our
Things to Do on the Isle of Lewis and Hebridean Adventures pages.
Getting Around the Isle of Lewis
To make the most of your stay, having a car is strongly recommended.
The Isle of Lewis is easy to navigate, with quiet roads and relatively short distances between key areas. Driving allows you to explore beaches, wildlife spots, and remote landscapes at your own pace.