The Wildlife Map of the Hebrides

8. Barvas Moor and Muirneag

The huge low-lying platform of northern Lewis is now one of the largest undisturbed expanses of blanket bog remaining in Britain. The intricate patterning of the peatland landscape is best seen from above, making the long trek into Muirneag worthwhile, in clear weather there are views to both east and west coasts, with the Harris hills to the South and the great expanse of peat spread out beneath. About 80% of Lewis north of Leurbost to Garynahine is covered by peat. The peat on the summit ride of Muirneag is eroding, but you can see the full range of peatland plants on the walk in. The remote peat pools are the breeding grounds of waders such as Dunlin, Golden Plover and Greenshank.