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Clava Cairns
Attraction
4.6 (3267 reviews)
4000-year-old burial cairns, each enclosed by stone circles, on a terrace above the River Nairn.
Inverness IV2 5EU, UK
+44 1667 460232
Did You Know?
Ancient Origins
The Clava Cairns date back approximately 4,000 years to the Bronze Age, making them a significant and remarkably well-preserved prehistoric site in Scotland.
Winter Solstice Alignment
The passage graves at Clava Cairns are precisely aligned to the midwinter sunset, suggesting a deep understanding of astronomy by their builders and a ritualistic purpose related to the shortest day of the year.
Main Cairns
The site primarily consists of three large, distinctive cairns: two passage graves (Balnuaran of Clava East and West) and one ring cairn (Central Cairn), each with its own unique features and surrounding standing stones.
Fictional Inspiration
While not the exact location, Clava Cairns is widely believed to be the inspiration for Craigh na Dun, the fictional stone circle in Diana Gabaldon's 'Outlander' series, where Claire Randall travels through time.
Highlights from Reviews
• rich historical significance
The site is a fascinating Bronze Age cemetery complex with standing stones and burial cairns dating back 4,000 years.
• peaceful and atmospheric
Despite its popularity, the site maintains a serene and mystical atmosphere, offering a connection to ancient Scotland.
• free admission and parking
There is no cost to visit the Clava Cairns, and parking is also free, making it an accessible attraction.
• outlander inspiration
The site is widely recognized as the inspiration for Craig na Dun in the Outlander series, attracting fans of the show.
• proximity to Culloden
Its close location to Culloden Moor makes it a convenient and worthwhile stop for those visiting the area.
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