Beinn Bhragair, Pairc Shiaboist

Summary

This short but rough hillwalk to the summit of Beinn Bhragair is rewarded with superlative views in all directions across the boglands of central Lewis. An easy approach on an old road is followed by a short, steep climb which is often boggy underfoot.

Grade

Bog Factor

Rating

Terrain

Surfaced road suitable for bicycles from the start to the foot of the hill, boggy moorland with no real path.

Hillwalking in Winter

Please note that hillwalking when there is snow lying requires an ice-axe, crampons and the knowledge, experience and skill to use them correctly. All route descriptions and difficulties given here are for summer conditions. See our Winter Skills page for basic information on the essential skills, techniques and knowledge needed for winter hillwalking.

Getting there

Start

Near the road end at Pairc Shiaboist.

Public Transport

Bus to Siaboist.

Start Grid Ref

NB266456

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Walk Statistics

Distance: 7km / 4.25 miles
Time (summer conditions): 2.5 hours
Ascent: 240m (Profile)

Summits Climbed

Sub 2000: Beinn Bhragair

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Walk Description

User reports (2)

Stage 1

Turn off the A858 at Siaboist (Shawbost) signed for Pairc Shiaboist and follow this road to just before the last house where there is limited parking at the roadside - take care not to block the turning circle or any gates. Walk to the road end and go through the gate to continue on the surfaced road - this section could easily be biked. At the gate there are views of Loch Thuaimistear which is popular with over wintering birds.

Stage 2

Stay on the road as it weaves through old and still in use peat cuttings and heads uphill with Beinn Bhragair clearly visible ahead. Go through a second gate and climb past the peat cuttings. The hill on the right with the masts on top is Beinn na Cloich. Eventually some waterworks buildings are reached.

Stage 3

Head to the left to go round the fenced enclosure - on boggy ground. Aim south at first, keeping to the base of the hill to avoid the crags. After 300m or so bear slightly left (SSE) to heading up a grass and heather slope, eventually aiming towards a rounded skyline notch. After the easy surface of the road the ground is very boggy and rough. The climb to the notch steepens but the underfoot conditions improve a little.

Stage 4

Once above the steepest slopes head NNE for a short but rough walk over moorland to reach the summit where there is a cairn and separate trig point. From here there are great views to the coast, north to Ness and south to the mountains of Harris.

Stage 5

Although it is possible to make a circuit by descending east and picking up a much rougher peat road, the way is very boggy and rough and our route retraces the outward route to return along the road to Pairc Shiaboist.

Route Profile

Where to stay

Outer Hebrides Hotels

Outer Hebrides B&B

Isle of Lewis cottages

Outer Hebrides hostels

Glamping and Camping

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