Climbs 42
Rocktype Gneiss
Altitude 54m a.s.l
Crag features
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Near Carloway and Doune on the Isle of Lewis lies a scattered collection of boulders and small crags across the hills of Cnoc Dubh nan Oirtheanan. Some are easily accessible from the roadside, while others require a short walk to reach. The gneiss rock offers a variety of bouldering, including clean slabs, blocky overhangs, sharp crimps, and delicate layaway cracks.
The first known bouldering development began in 2023 when Cameron and Ella Brewes discovered a compact roof at Dalbeg during a four-day trip visit. Cameron spent a day exploring the coastline around Doune and identified significant bouldering potential. The pair returned in 2025 to begin developing the area further, establishing a number of new problems. Doune remains largely unexplored with plenty of unclimbed boulders and potential for new development.
Approach notes
Waterproof wellies is essential for crossing the peatland, and a tarp is useful for keeping bouldering pads dry between problems. Each bouldering sector is individually marked using what3words for easy navigation. Parking is available at the cattle grid on the A858 (Grid Ref: NB 20145 39003, ///overdrive.crinkled.depth). Please ensure the gate can still be used when parking: there is space for approximately five vehicles if parked considerately. The first roadside boulder is visible from the parking spot. To access it, cross the fence and follow a direct line over the bog. The remaining bouldering areas are progressively further away from the parking, requiring longer walks across uneven terrain. The main sector can be approached by following the fence line north from Roadside One.
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Climbs at this crag
| Name | Grade | Stars | Type | Logs | Partner Ascents |
|---|
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