What is it about the Hebrides?

The Hebrides are a string of islands stretching out into the North Atlantic off the north west coast of mainland Scotland. It's gneiss landscape, like a laconic old face, is shaped by elements - wind a constant companion, rain at the ready, warmth from the Gulf Stream, cold from the long winter nights. They are like ever present reminders that you live "in" this island, but only with its grudging permission. It is an island that reveals it's fierce beauty slowly and without shame.









This is also a land of druidical circles, standing stones, ancient monasteries and pagan monuments commemorating lives long gone. Even the village names harken their Norse and Gaelic heritage. Swainbost, Tolsta, Tong, Grimshader, Marvig....your imagination conjures up raiding Viking ships, pillaging unsuspecting and unprepared communities. Being chased back to sea by Donald Somerled - Lord of the Isles. This is a place where long shadows have meaning. Bridges are shelters for mysterious fairies and legendary fugitives still haunt the dark and brooding moors and play with the minds of the young (ok...truth be told..driving across the Barvas moor late at night still gives me the "willies" - thanks Grandma!!).





There are those who complain of the weather or the isolation, but few miss the point - the wealth of landscape defines, in large part, who you are and why you are. My ancestors have plowed this unforgiving land, fished it's waters, harvested it's reluctant bounty and loved it's deep spirit.
So too do I.

- Derek

Location:Stornoway, Isle of Lewis