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October 2022 |
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We had a few days in Argyll, north of the Kintyre Peninsula, near
Crinan. We were particularly interested in Kilmartin Glen, a valley rich in
Neolithic and Pictish monuments.
A 5 ˝ miles walk, mostly on surfaced track, that takes in the majority
of the Neolithic monuments. Much the usual route described elsewhere, but
with a slight extension to visit an engraved bolder. Allow at least 3-hours,
or four if you’re particularly fascinated! |
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Glebe Cairn |
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Neither Largie North Cairn The most complete of the burial cairns. The interior
is accessible via a sliding hatch (just visible in the photo above) that
opens into a shaft and steps into the burial chamber. |
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Photos of the interior of Neither Largie North Cairn,
showing the burial cist and cover stone carved with symbols. |
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Over the centuries since their construction, the
Kilmartin cairns have been plundered for their stone. Neither Largie Mid
Cairn, above, has had much of its stone removed. |
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Neither Largie South Cairn, above, is more intact and
it is possible to enter the interior space. |
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Whereas not as complete as the north cairn, Neither
Largie South Cairn interior is very atmospheric. |
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Following a track through the field from the south
cairn you come to a group of standing stones. |
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From the standing stones head back to the road and
the Temple Wood Stone Circle. |
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Clearly not as impressive as Stone Hedge, Temple Wood
Stone Circle still has an atmosphere of its own. |
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The most southerly site on our walk was Ri-Cruin
Cairn. |
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A little-off the beaten track the Ballygowan rock art
is well worth seeking-out. What did these marks signify? No one knows. |
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