Clava Cairns

Clava Cairns is one of the most fascinating and mysterious prehistoric sites in Scotland, located just a few miles east of Inverness. This ancient burial site dates back over 4,000 years to the Bronze Age and consists of a group of well-preserved burial cairns, standing stones, and ring cairns. Nestled in a peaceful wooded area near the River Nairn, Clava Cairns offers visitors a serene yet awe-inspiring experience.

The site is not only important archaeologically, but it has also captured the imagination of visitors worldwide due to its mystical appearance and spiritual ambiance. It’s believed to have been used for rituals and burials, and today, it continues to be a place of quiet reflection and curiosity. Many visitors are drawn here by both its historical significance and its appearance in popular culture, such as its connection to the "Outlander" TV series.

How to Reach Clava Cairns, Inverness

Clava Cairns is located approximately 7 miles (11 km) southeast of Inverness and can be reached easily by car or local transport. If you're driving from Inverness, follow the A9 south, then take the B9006 east towards Culloden Battlefield. After passing the battlefield, follow signs to Clava Cairns. The site is signposted and has a small parking area nearby.

Public buses also run from Inverness to Culloden Moor, but you may need to walk around 1.5 miles (about 30 minutes) from the bus stop to reach the cairns. Alternatively, taxis and guided tours are available from Inverness and often include both Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield in the itinerary.

Weather at Clava Cairns

Clava Cairns is an outdoor site, so checking the weather before visiting is recommended. Inverness has a temperate maritime climate, which means cool summers and mild but damp winters.

In summer (June to August), temperatures range from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), making it a pleasant time to visit. In winter (December to February), temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F), and the area may be slippery if wet or icy. Rain is common throughout the year, so waterproof clothing and sturdy walking shoes are advised, especially since the terrain around the cairns is grassy and uneven.

Timing and Opening Hours

Clava Cairns is open all year round and has no official opening or closing hours. Since it is an unmanaged site without a visitor center, you can explore the cairns at any time during daylight hours.

However, visiting during the day is strongly recommended for safety and for better visibility to appreciate the ancient stonework. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful lighting for photography.

Why Famous for Clava Cairns, Inverness?

Clava Cairns is famous for being one of the best-preserved prehistoric burial sites in Scotland. The site provides a unique glimpse into Bronze Age customs and beliefs about death and the afterlife. It is particularly well-known for its three large cairns—two of which are passage graves aligned with the winter solstice sunset—and the surrounding standing stones.

The mysterious atmosphere and alignment with astronomical events make it comparable to sites like Stonehenge. Additionally, Clava Cairns has gained modern fame due to its association with the TV show *Outlander*, where fans believe it inspired the fictional Craigh na Dun, a stone circle used for time travel in the series.

Entry and Visit Details

Visiting Clava Cairns is completely free. There is no entry fee or ticketing required, and no visitor center or guided tours on-site, though interpretive boards are available for self-guided exploration.

There is a small parking lot near the site, and basic information panels explain the history and layout of the cairns. Dogs are allowed on leads, and the area is generally quiet and peaceful, ideal for a reflective walk. Due to the lack of facilities, it’s a good idea to bring water and any supplies you may need during your visit.

History and Architecture

Clava Cairns was built around 2000 BC during the Bronze Age and was used as a cemetery. The site includes three main types of structures: passage graves, ring cairns, and kerb cairns. The two larger passage graves are aligned with the midwinter solstice, meaning the setting sun shines directly into the chambers on the shortest day of the year—suggesting that the builders had advanced knowledge of astronomy.

Each cairn is surrounded by a ring of standing stones, some of which are over 3 meters tall. The stones vary in size and placement, possibly reflecting the social status of the people buried within. The entire layout seems intentional, possibly related to rituals or spiritual beliefs of the time.

Things to Do at Clava Cairns

• Walk around the burial cairns and explore the inner chambers where ancient remains once lay.
• Take photographs of the standing stones and surrounding landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Read the on-site information panels that explain the site's structure and historical importance.
• Enjoy a quiet and reflective moment in the peaceful environment filled with ancient history.
• Visit nearby attractions such as Culloden Battlefield or the River Nairn for a complete historical day out.
• Look out for wildlife in the surrounding woodland and open fields.

Facts and Tips about Clava Cairns, Inverness

Interesting Facts:

• Clava Cairns is over 4,000 years old and predates the Pyramids of Egypt.
• The site includes over a dozen stone monuments within a small area.
• It is believed to have been used for generations, with additional structures built over time.
• Clava Cairns inspired the fictional stone circle in the *Outlander* series.
• The alignment of the tombs with the solstice suggests advanced astronomical knowledge.

Visitor Tips:

• Wear sturdy footwear and bring a jacket, as the ground can be uneven and the weather unpredictable.
• Visit during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for beautiful photos.
• Combine your visit with Culloden Battlefield for a full day of Highland history.
• Use the site respectfully—avoid climbing on stones or disturbing the area.
• If you're an *Outlander* fan, bring your camera—you’ll feel like you’ve stepped onto the set!

Clava Cairns is not just a destination—it’s a journey into Scotland’s distant past. With its ancient stones, spiritual energy, and tranquil surroundings, it offers a unique experience unlike any other. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply curious about the mysteries of ancient times, Clava Cairns is a must-visit during your time in Inverness.