Places of Interest

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns - or more correctly Bulnaraun of Clava - is one of the best preserved Bronze Age burial sites in Scotland. There are three cairns here, two with passage ways aligned to the Midwinter sunset, and all with more subtle features, incorporated to reflect the importance of the South-west horizon.
The site consist of 3 small, relatively well preserved burial chambers, aligned on a North-east to South-west axis. Each cairn consists of a multitude of large water-worn pebbles and boulders, piled in a bun shape, with an outer kerb of larger stones, around which stands a s"tone circle. The two outer cairns have passages to a central chamber aligned South-west to the Midwinter sun, while the central cairn has only an inner chamber with no connecting passage.
The cairns are thought to date from the late Neolithic period, and this type of cairn seems to be a style developed in this part of Scotland, which are collectively known as Clava Cairns.
Access info: About seven miles south east of Inverness on the A9, turn of on the B851 turn left at the Leanach crossroads then right at the foot of the hill, the site is on the right.

Clava Cairns

Inverarnie Esker Trail

Distance: 4.5 km
Approx time: 90 minutes
Description: Choose from three colour-coded walks each of which cover an assortment of terrains (so sturdy boots may be a good idea). Choose from a stroll through peaceful woodlands or a walk along the crest of the hills for stunning views.






Access info: About five miles south of Inverness on the A9, turn off on the B851. The start of the walk is one mile on, on your left.

Loch Ruthven Nature Reserve

Loch Ruthven is a nature reserve in Strathnairn. You may see the rare Slavonian Grebes as well as lots of interesting wildlife. Not just animals but plants too. If you get hungry on the way to the hide why not try the leaves of the Wood Sorrel, it tastes like gooseberries. Another plant which is very useful to have is the Bog Myrtle which helps to keep Midges away, supposedly!

When you get to the hide keep a look out for the Osprey which has been spotted fishing over the loch. There are also lots of other kinds of lovely wildlife to see. Farr School seniors have written letters in support of the RSPB who are trying to get a grant to improve things.
Access info: About 10miles south west of Inverness on the A9, turn off on B851 continue to Craochy, turn right a signposted for Loch Ruthven

Loch Ruthven Nature Reserve