Scotland
Cairn Nairvie
558M
1831FT
About Cairn Nairvie
Rising above the Muir of Dinnet in Aberdeenshire, this heathery summit offers a quieter perspective on Deeside than its popular neighbour, Morven. The ascent through rough moorland leads to a vantage point overlooking the shimmering waters of Loch Kinord and Loch Davan, with the dark bulk of Lochnagar dominating the western horizon.
Key Statistics
Rank
187th Highest in Region
Parent Range
Data coming soon
Prominence
?
20
Nearest Town
Ballater
Geology
Cairn Nairvie is formed from granite and dark, crystalline rocks. These were created when molten material cooled and hardened deep beneath the earth’s surface.
Classifications
Find It
OS Grid Reference
NO415929
Latitude
57.0235°N
Longitude
2.9652°W
Did You Know?
- •The name is likely derived from the Gaelic Càrn, meaning a stony hill, combined with a corruption of An Arbha; this likely refers to the golden or yellowed appearance of the moorland grasses in the late autumn.
- •Its position provides a clear sightline to the Howe of Cromar, a natural low-lying amphitheatre that contrasts sharply with the rugged peaks of the High Grampians seen to the west.
- •The hill is a primary landmark for those exploring the Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve, standing as the high point on the northern rim of the granite basin that contains the famous Burn of Vat.
- •Given the name Cairn Nairvie, one might expect a monumental stack of stones; instead, the summit offers a pile just substantial enough to prevent your map from blowing away towards Aboyne.