Cairn Cattoch

Hill, Mountain in Morayshire

Scotland

Cairn Cattoch

Burn of Rothes at Broom Hillock Broom Hillock is actually hidden in the trees on the right, but it&#039;s the only place name in this part of the glen. The view down the burn takes in Ben Aigen in the distance. — Burn of Rothes at Broom Hillock Credit: Anne Burgess

Cairn Cattoch, located in Morayshire, Scotland, is a prominent hill that boasts stunning views and holds significant archaeological and historical value. Standing at an elevation of approximately 376 meters (1,234 feet), it is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

The hill is situated about 5 kilometers (3 miles) southeast of the town of Forres, and its distinct shape and commanding presence make it easily recognizable in the landscape. Cairn Cattoch is characterized by its gently sloping sides and a flat, plateau-like summit, covered in heather and grasses.

One of the most intriguing features of Cairn Cattoch is the presence of a prehistoric burial cairn at its summit. This ancient structure, dating back to the Bronze Age, is believed to have been a communal burial site for the local inhabitants of that era. Although the cairn has been partially excavated in the past, it still retains its original shape and provides an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the people who once inhabited the area.

In addition to its archaeological significance, Cairn Cattoch offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, stretching as far as the Moray Firth and the Grampian Mountains. On clear days, visitors can enjoy vistas of rolling hills, meandering rivers, and lush green fields, creating a picturesque and serene setting.

Cairn Cattoch serves as a popular recreational spot, attracting visitors who enjoy hiking, hillwalking, and birdwatching. Its accessibility, historical interest, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Morayshire region.

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Cairn Cattoch Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.506521/-3.2825322 or Grid Reference NJ2346. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Burn of Rothes at Broom Hillock

Broom Hillock is actually hidden in the trees on the right, but it's the only place name in this part of the glen. The view down the burn takes in Ben Aigen in the distance.

Anne Burgess

A Square Hole

We were at a loss to imagine why someone has come along and dug a deep square hole by the side of the forest road.

Anne Burgess

Boggy Pond

Looking at the pondweed at my feet, it's not going to be long before the open water is completely covered by vegetation, and there will be a risk of falling into the water underneath. However we have walked past it on several occasions and never noticed it before, and it's several miles from anywhere, so it's not exactly a popular spot.

Anne Burgess

Clear Fell

All that remains of the conifers here are stumps, brash and a few logs waiting to be taken away.

Anne Burgess

Forest Clearing

It looks as if this area was felled some considerable time ago, because there is quite a lot of later vegetation growing through the remnants of the trees and partly concealing them.

Anne Burgess

Nameless Burn

This watercourse is unnamed on the maps, being described simply as 'Drain'. It must have been a sudden and significant change of habitat for the birches when the surrounding conifers were felled.

Anne Burgess

Logs and Leftovers

The birches left by the forest clearance mark the upper course of NJ2345 : Nameless Burn. A few logs still await transport to wherever they are to be used.

Anne Burgess

Heath Bedstraw (Galium saxatile)

This common plant grows in great profusion here, forming large mats and cushions. Each flower is about 2 millimetres across.

Anne Burgess

Opening up the View

Since the felling of the forest here, walkers can enjoy a wide view across to the Convals near Dufftown.

Anne Burgess

Forest Pool

Bog cotton is reflected in the surface of a pool by the roadside, with a clear felled area beyond.

Anne Burgess

Bog Cotton

To my inexpert eye, there seem to be two different types of cotton-grass here, but the books suggest that there is only one likely species, Common Cotton-grass (Eriophorum angustifolium).

Anne Burgess

Forest Pool

The map shows this as the source of a minor watercourse, marked only as 'Drain'. It was evidently surrounded by trees until the area was clear felled, and provides a welcome oasis of green amongst the brown brash and stumps.

Anne Burgess

Cairn Cattoch

Taken on a spring evening

Gavin Scott

Seen better days.

The dilapidated hut was probably used for shooting parties. Roe deer abound in the forest. There was evidence nearby of target practice. The hay rake looks abandoned, but the grass beyond looks as though it was harvested last year. Perhaps it is still put to use.

alan souter

Ruin.

There is evidence nearby of considerable agricultural activity in the past, but forest now covers the landscape for miles around. The building has some large cut granite stones in its construction and in the outbuildings. This could well explain why so much is standing today.

alan souter

Rough track.

This track is not maintained, but there were prints of walking boots, horse shoes and mountain bike tyres in the softer areas. On the horizon is a communications mast in the square to the south.

alan souter