Leac Ghorm

Cliff, Slope in Ross-shire

Scotland

Leac Ghorm

View towards Loch Chàrlabhaigh
View towards Loch Chàrlabhaigh Credit: David Dixon

Leac Ghorm is a picturesque cliff located in Ross-shire, Scotland. Situated on the northwest coast of the Highlands, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this natural marvel captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and rugged charm.

The name "Leac Ghorm" translates to "Blue Slope" in Gaelic, which perfectly describes the striking blue hues that adorn the cliff face. Rising to an impressive height of approximately 100 meters, it provides a breathtaking vantage point for those who venture to its summit. The cliff's steep slope and jagged edges create a dramatic backdrop against the crashing waves below.

The area surrounding Leac Ghorm is rich in diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal habitat for various species. Visitors may spot seabirds such as gannets, puffins, and razorbills nesting on the cliff ledges. The cliff's proximity to the ocean also attracts seals and dolphins, adding to the vibrant wildlife experience.

Adventurous individuals can explore Leac Ghorm by following the well-marked hiking trails that lead to the summit. These trails offer panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, including nearby sandy beaches and charming fishing villages. The cliff is also a popular spot for rock climbing enthusiasts, who test their skills on its challenging vertical faces.

Leac Ghorm's natural beauty is best appreciated during sunset, when the golden rays of light bathe the cliff, creating a magical ambiance. Photographers and nature enthusiasts flock to this spot to capture the awe-inspiring vistas and the interplay of light and shadow.

In conclusion, Leac Ghorm in Ross-shire is a stunning cliff formation that showcases the wild and untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Its towering height, vibrant wildlife, and panoramic views make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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Leac Ghorm Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.279473/-6.7968793 or Grid Reference NB1842. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

View towards Loch Chàrlabhaigh
View towards Loch Chàrlabhaigh
Dun Carloway Broch A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. 

Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date.

The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>  (pdf file on the HES website).
Dun Carloway Broch
A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date. The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 LinkExternal link Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance LinkExternal link (pdf file on the HES website).
Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. 

Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date.

The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>  (pdf file on the HES website).
Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh)
A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date. The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 LinkExternal link Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance LinkExternal link (pdf file on the HES website).
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh Broch A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. 

Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date.

The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>  (pdf file on the HES website).
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh Broch
A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date. The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 LinkExternal link Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance LinkExternal link (pdf file on the HES website).
Broch at Doune Carloway A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. 

Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date.

The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>  (pdf file on the HES website).
Broch at Doune Carloway
A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date. The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 LinkExternal link Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance LinkExternal link (pdf file on the HES website).
Dun Carloway A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. 

Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date.

The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://portal.historicenvironment.scot/designation/SM90110">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span> Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance <span class="nowrap"><a title="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6" rel="nofollow ugc noopener" href="https://app-hes-pubs-prod-neu-01.azurewebsites.net/api/file/185e6bb3-1b4d-4c6d-8497-acaf009e3ef6">Link</a><img style="margin-left:2px;" alt="External link" title="External link - shift click to open in new window" src="https://s1.geograph.org.uk/img/external.png" width="10" height="10"/></span>  (pdf file on the HES website).
Dun Carloway
A Broch is an Iron Age, drystone structure found almost exclusively in Scotland and the Isles. Designed to impress and defend, they were probably the homes of tribal leaders and important members of the community. They are built with two concentric walls of stone, with a stairway or gallery within the walls to the upper floors. Dun Carloway (Dùn Chàrlabhaigh) broch is located above Loch an Dùin on a rocky knoll in a good defensive position. It is one of the best preserved in the Hebrides and some sections of the outer wall stand approximately 9 metres tall so they have survived almost intact. It dates back more than 2000 years; it is thought to have been constructed about 200 BC. Broch-building ceased around AD 100, but they may have continued in use. Evidence from excavations suggests Dun Carloway may have been used until about AD 1000. In the 17th century the broch is said to have been used as a stronghold by members of the Morison Clan when it was besieged by the Macaulays of Uig, with whom they were feuding. The implication is that the wall of the broch were relatively complete until this date. The broch is a scheduled monument (SM90110 LinkExternal link Historic Environment Scotland). More information can be found in the statement of significance LinkExternal link (pdf file on the HES website).
Doune Carloway
Doune Carloway
Doune Carloway, view from the broch The village of Doune is named after its Iron Age broch (<a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7630277">NB1941 : Dun Carloway Broch</a>). Doune Carloway was at one time a farm, along with Kirvick but in 1828 it was divided into crofts for tenants evicted from Hacklete, Bernera.
Doune Carloway, view from the broch
The village of Doune is named after its Iron Age broch (NB1941 : Dun Carloway Broch). Doune Carloway was at one time a farm, along with Kirvick but in 1828 it was divided into crofts for tenants evicted from Hacklete, Bernera.
Doune Carloway, Loch an Dùin and the coast View to the west from <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7630291">NB1941 : Broch at Doune Carloway</a> past  Loch an Dùin and the edge of the village, towards the coast.
Doune Carloway, Loch an Dùin and the coast
View to the west from NB1941 : Broch at Doune Carloway past Loch an Dùin and the edge of the village, towards the coast.
View from Dun Carloway Broch - Loch an Dùin Looking south from <a href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7630291">NB1941 : Broch at Doune Carloway</a>.
View from Dun Carloway Broch - Loch an Dùin
Looking south from NB1941 : Broch at Doune Carloway.
Blackhouse Village at Garenin
Blackhouse Village at Garenin
Blackhouse Village at Garenin
Blackhouse Village at Garenin
Abhainn Chàrlabhaigh
Abhainn Chàrlabhaigh
Carloway, Isle of Lewis
Carloway, Isle of Lewis
Byre, Carloway
Byre, Carloway
Hill near Carloway
Hill near Carloway
Bridge carrying A858 over Abhainn Charlabhaigh, Carloway
Bridge carrying A858 over Abhainn Charlabhaigh, Carloway
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh The broch at Carloway.
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh
The broch at Carloway.
Show me another place!

Leac Ghorm is located at Grid Ref: NB1842 (Lat: 58.279473, Lng: -6.7968793)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///nutty.swooning.brilliant. Near Carloway, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 58.279473,-6.7968793
Carloway
Naptan AtcoCode: 6010731587
Naptan Bearing: E
Naptan BusStopType: CUS
Naptan CommonName: Carloway
Naptan Indicator: Borrowston Village
Naptan Landmark: Bus turning point
Naptan NaptanCode: 94723958
Naptan Street: Borrowston Village
Naptan Verified: no
Source: naptan_import
Lat/Long: 58.2806808/-6.794883
Passing Place
Lat/Long: 58.2813666/-6.7898784
Passing Place
Lat/Long: 58.2812252/-6.7929029
Man Made: crane
Lat/Long: 58.2779671/-6.7902189
Borghastan
Name En: Borrowston
Name Gd: Borghastan
Place: neighbourhood
Lat/Long: 58.2813536/-6.7926427
Turning Circle
Lat/Long: 58.2806619/-6.7947932
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2810384/-6.7949828
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2812172/-6.7940487
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2815353/-6.7938935
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2817141/-6.7931677
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2819168/-6.7923656
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2820312/-6.7900233
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2820612/-6.7905765
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2821164/-6.7913394
Power: pole
Lat/Long: 58.2818022/-6.7899001
Barrier: cattle_grid
Lat/Long: 58.2810163/-6.7939926
Barrier: cattle_grid
Lat/Long: 58.2807022/-6.7949554
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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