This is the fascinating UK village which was abandoned by residents 50 years ago in favour of 'modern life'.
The deserted Scots village of Gearrannan Blackhouse, which sits on the Isle of Lewis, is a coastal village situated in a secluded bay overlooking the wild Atlantic ocean.
The village, which was built in the 1800s, was occupied right up until the 1970s when the population moved to more modern housing. However, the old houses were declared a conservation area shortly after and have been lovingly preserved.
The famous blackhouses included double drystone walls, a low profile and insulating thatch which made the houses suitable for the Hebridean weather. They were even eco-friendly as all the building materials were natural and found locally, Scottish Daily Express reports.
The Gearrannan Blackhouse Village offers a wide range of accommodation for history buffs looking for a truly authentic Scottish stay, ranging from 2-star group accommodation sleeping 16 to four-star family cottages right on the country's northerly tip.
The seaside village offers simple accommodation in restored cottages with each blackhouse having its own character named after the family who once lived there.
It is easy to imagine that you have stepped back in time, to experience the way of life in a typical crofting township of the last century.
In the morning you can wake up to the crashing Atlantic ocean waves on your doorstep, while in the evening you can relax in front of a real fire.
During the day you can enjoy the variety that the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village has to offer, or you can spend your time taking in the neighbouring islands.
If you are looking to get stuck in with some traditional activities, you could live your very own Outlander experience including the weaving of the famous Harris Tweed.
In the morning you can wake up to the crashing Atlantic ocean waves on your doorstep, while in the evening you can relax in front of a real fire.
During the day you can enjoy the variety that the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village has to offer, or you can spend your time taking in the neighbouring islands.
If you are looking to get stuck in with some traditional activities, you could live your very own Outlander experience including the weaving of the famous Harris Tweed.
There is a small shop where you can buy mementoes of your visit. And don't panic, although the Island is small they do have a cafe which you can keep you fuelled on the best of homemade fare.
Taigh Thormoid ‘an ‘ic Iain
The House of Norman (1824-1900), the son of Iain
This 3-star blackhouse sleeps two and is in the oldest part of the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village. It offers a sea view, solid fuel stove, underfloor heating, double bedroom, shower room, fully fitted kitchenette, and a sitting room. It is perfect for a single person or a couple.
Taigh Glass
Glass was the nickname of Donald MacLeod 1860-1953
This 4-star cottage which sleeps four to five people offers a solid fuel stove, underfloor heating, shower room, double bedroom, single bedroom, fully fitted kitchenette, and a living area with a double sofa bed. It is perfect for a family. The house has been restored with the needs of disabled visitors in mind.
Taigh an t-Seòladair
The Sailor’s House. The ‘Sailor’ was Donald MacLeod 1865-1938
This 4 star blackhouse offers a solid fuel stove, underfloor heating, shower room, double bedroom, a single bedroom, fully fitted kitchenette, and a living area with a double sofa bed. It is perfect for a family.
One review said: "We stayed for 2 nights in Taigh an t-Seòladair. A beautiful example of a period Scottish thatched blackhouse. The old house was alive with history. Take a step back in time in memorable surroundings."
Another person wrote: "Stayed here one night whilst cycling Hebridean Way, £18 for a bed in a unique black house shared dorm with great facilities, showers, priceless views and friendly host Mary on hand. I’ll stay here again."
A third visitor to the accommodation added: "Outstanding sight, sitting on the edge of the village.
"It’s the best of both history and scenery, so beautiful and so very worth the trip!
"The gift shop also offers one-of-a-kind souvenirs so don’t rush it! This is a must-see if you are in the area!"
