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Dun Grugaig

Broch

Fieldnotes

Nowhere near as ruinous as I'd anticipated, Dun Grugaig is - in my opinion - the most rewarding of the trio of ancient defensive structures to be found within the wondrous confines of Glen Beag.

Tearing myself away from the magnetic attraction of the excellent Balvraid chambered cairn, I venture once again into the merciless glare of the sun. The broch is signposted, a DIY placard indicating the route to be taken along the rough track heading approach south-east beside the Abhaim a' Ghlinne Bhig. It is not far, a 1/4 mile or so from the buildings at Balvraid, I guess... look for the birch covered crag, above and to the right (south) upon fording the stream which flows towards the aforementioned river from the Coire nan Caorach.

Not a true broch, Dun Grugaig possesses a semi-circular ground plan, therefore differing from its much more famous, distinctly circular neighbours (Dun Telve and Dun Troddan), utilising a steep ravine falling to the river for its western defence. Truly, no more was needed.... that much is obvious as I teeter upon the edge, the presence of gurgling water just discernable far below. Consequently the setting of the enclosure is far more dramatic than either of the other two sites, thus engendering a far superior vibe. The archaeology is substantial, too, the drystone walling rising to an impressive height, particularly facing the original approach to the approx south-east, where I reckon additional, outer defences remain in situ beyond. What's more a gallery can still be seen within the inner and outer walls of the defences. Always a good thing.

The proximity to water does have its drawbacks, however. Yeah, the ancient defenders may now be long gone from Dun Grugaig.... but not so the terrible midge which begins to demand evasive action from the visitor. However the fort occupies such an idyllic position within this landscape that such discomforts must surely be bourne in good heart?
GLADMAN Posted by GLADMAN
12th July 2012ce
Edited 15th July 2012ce

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