Craig Phadrig

The hillfort

The fort was built over 2,000 years ago and later became a stronghold of a powerful Pictish king. Tradition holds that St Columba came here in 565 AD to meet King Bridei. The ramparts were burned so fiercely that the stones melted and fused together, a process known as vitrification. Today the walls show as an oval, grassy mound on the summit. It is a good example of the vitrified forts found across the Highlands.

The walks

There are two waymarked routes. The Hill Fort Trail is about 1.9 km and takes around 45 minutes; it is the steeper of the two, with some wooden steps and earth paths that can be muddy. The Craig Phadrig Trail is about 2.3 km, around an hour, on a wider gravel track with moderate slopes.

Views and planning

From the top you can see across Inverness and the Beauly Firth through the trees, and across the water to Ord Hill, another ancient fort. There are no facilities on site, so pick up food in town; the riverside pubs and cafés along Huntly Street are a short drive back down.

Highlights

• Iron Age hillfort over 2,000 years old
• Vitrified ramparts fused by intense heat
• Linked to the Pictish king Bridei and St Columba
• Two waymarked woodland trails of about 2 km
• Views over Inverness and the Beauly Firth

Good to know

• The main car park is about 400 m up Leachkin Brae (postcode IV3 8PN), with a smaller one just before it.
• There are no toilets or cafés on site; the nearest are in Inverness.
• The Hill Fort Trail has a steep section with wooden steps and can be muddy, so wear sturdy footwear.

Frequently asked questions