Suil Bhiorach

Coastal Feature, Headland, Point in Ross-shire

Scotland

Suil Bhiorach

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 Credit: David Dixon

Suil Bhiorach is a prominent coastal feature located in Ross-shire, Scotland. It is classified as a headland or point and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The name Suil Bhiorach translates to "sharp eye" in Gaelic, which aptly describes the breathtaking views it offers.

Situated along the rugged coastline, Suil Bhiorach juts out into the North Sea, providing a commanding vantage point over the surrounding landscape. Its towering cliffs, with their dramatic drop-offs, create a striking contrast against the deep blue waters below. These cliffs are home to a diverse range of seabirds, including puffins, gannets, and cormorants, making it a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.

The headland also boasts a variety of vegetation, with hardy grasses and shrubs clinging to the exposed slopes. During the spring and summer months, the area becomes a riot of color as wildflowers bloom, adding to its natural allure.

Suil Bhiorach is not only a visual delight but also holds historical significance. In the past, it served as a navigational landmark for sailors, guiding them safely along the coastline. The headland's strategic position made it an important lookout point during times of conflict, allowing for a clear view of approaching ships or potential invaders.

Today, Suil Bhiorach attracts visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at its rugged beauty and explore the surrounding area. A well-maintained footpath leads visitors to the headland, providing easy access to its stunning viewpoints. Whether it's to admire the breathtaking scenery, observe the diverse wildlife, or simply enjoy a peaceful coastal walk, Suil Bhiorach is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

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Suil Bhiorach Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 58.270137/-6.814258 or Grid Reference NB1741. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

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.
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh The broch at Carloway.
Dùn Chàrlabhaigh
The broch at Carloway.
Blackhouse base at Carloway Seen from the path that leads to the broch.
Blackhouse base at Carloway
Seen from the path that leads to the broch.
Welcome to Dùn Chàrlabhaigh Historic Scotland information panel about the broch.
Welcome to Dùn Chàrlabhaigh
Historic Scotland information panel about the broch.
Lazy beds below Cnoc Buaile Fang, Isle of Lewis
Lazy beds below Cnoc Buaile Fang, Isle of Lewis
Broch at Doun Carloway
Broch at Doun Carloway
Dun Charlabhaigh
Dun Charlabhaigh
Dòun Chàrlabhaigh
Dòun Chàrlabhaigh
Ruins and Loch an Dùin
Ruins and Loch an Dùin
Carloway Broch, from the access path
Carloway Broch, from the access path
Show me another place!

Suil Bhiorach is located at Grid Ref: NB1741 (Lat: 58.270137, Lng: -6.814258)

Unitary Authority: Na h-Eileanan an Iar

Police Authority: Highlands and Islands

What 3 Words

///clotting.stepping.nitrate. Near Carloway, Na h-Eileanan Siar

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Nearby Amenities

Located within 500m of 58.270137,-6.814258
Rudhag
Natural: bay
Lat/Long: 58.2667376/-6.8143811
The data included in this document is from www.openstreetmap.org. The data is made available under ODbL.

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