When you think of Outlander, you can’t help but think of standing stones. The stones are a key plot device in this romantic saga that spans decades and centuries all in one. Unfortunately, Craigh Na Dun is not a real Outlander location that you can visit. Yet, if your client is keen to visit standing stones in Scotland here are three destinations to consider.
The Inspiration – Clava Cairns
Clava Cairns, Photo Credit: VisitScotland
The Clava Cairns has often been hailed as the inspiration for Outlander’s Craigh Na Dun. True or not, these stones share the fictitious stones’ location closely. You can find the Clava Cairns near Inverness, and although not perched on a hill, they are surrounded by trees and fields. The stones and cairns date back 4,000 years to the Bronze Age and were used for burials and religious ceremonies.
Filming Location – Kinloch Rannoch
The fake stones used in the TV series are on top of a small hill in Kinloch Rannoch. Even without the stones, the setting and the views are breathtaking. Signposted by the same marker used in the TV series, the site is relatively easy to find. Be mindful that the filming location is on private land, and going to see it is not always possible depending on the landowner’s schedule.
Next Best Thing – The Callanish Stones
The Callanish Stones, Photo Credit: Tim Francis
For any Outlander fans, we recommend a visit to the Callanish Stones on the Isle of Lewis. These remarkable standing stones closely resemble the stones featured in Outlander, and a breathtaking vista surrounds them. The Callanish Stones are easily accessible; with a parking lot, good path and an excellent visitor centre.
Said to be around 5,000 years old, the purpose of the stones is not exactly known. Presumably, it was an area of prehistoric religious activity.
There is excellent hiking in the Outer Hebrides, and much history to get absorbed in. For those more interested in the Jacobite rebellion, there are various notable sites related to Bonnie Prince Charlie nearby.