© James Smith

The Uig community is the last outpost on the far west coast of the Isle of Lewis. From Giosla to Breanish, the area spans some 20 miles, and takes in 20 small villages with a total population of just over 400 people.

Geographically and scenically, Uig's nearest neighbour is the Isle of Harris. Like Harris, Uig is famous for its choice of world class beaches, looked over by ancient hills and moors.

Uig's remote settting has had its drawbacks for the local population in recent years, with the decline of traditional industries making it hard for young people to remain in the area. But hard work and determination by the people of Uig is keeping the community alive and allowing it to flourish again.

© James Smith

The Uig Community & Heritage Centre, opened in 1998, is now the focal point for local activity. Visitors and locals make excellent use of the facilities and Uig's ceilidh nights are known for being the best attended and most lively in on the Isle of Lewis!

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Although it is considered to be part of the Isle of Lewis, Great Bernera is actually an island in its own right. Since 1953 Bernera has been connected to mainland Lewis by a road bridge. Nevertheless, Bernera is typical of a small island community with strong and passionate community spirit.

Bernera's landscape is low and rolling, dotted with lochs and varied shores on to the sea. It is famous for its expansive white sandy beach at Bosta, with a reconstructed Iron Age house alongside.

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The relative proximity to Stornoway makes it easy for people living in Bernera to commute to work. As a result, the island has retained more of its indigenous population than neighbouring Uig.

The village of Breaclete is the hub of the Bernera community, with its busy Community Centre and a fire station, surgery, shop and school.