The Scottish glen with standing stones perfect to celebrate Summer Solstice this week
The ancient site is found in the west of Scotland.
This week marks the Summer Solstice, which is the longest day of the year. On June 21, people all over Scotland will be looking for meaningful ways to celebrate the occasion.
A popular destination to head for the Summer Solstice each year is Stonehenge in England, where thousands gather to watch the amazing sight of the sun lining up with the ancient stones. However, Scotland is home to many standing stones set against breathtaking landscapes that offer a more peaceful alternative with fewer crowds.
As previously reported by the Daily Record, VisitScotland recently shared a roundup of the top standings stone locations around Scotland to enjoy the Summer Solstice. The tourism board named beauty spots such as Machrie Moor on the Isle of Arran and the Calanais Standing Stones on the Isle of Lewis on its roundup.
Another destination featured on VisitScotland's list is Kilmartin Glen in Argyll. Situated between Oban and Lochgilphead, and surrounding the village of Kilmartin, it is located in the west of Scotland.
Kilmartin Glen is said to be home to one of the most significant collections of Neolithic and Bronze Age remains in Scotland. Among the highlights of the area are the Nether Largie Standing Stones and the Temple Wood Stone Circle.
The Nether Largie Stones are some of the most important prehistoric monuments in the country. Thought to date back 5,000 years, the stones are believed to align with key astronomical events—including the midsummer sunrise.
Meanwhile, the Temple Wood Stone Circle features 13 stones comprising a circle that is considered among the most well-preserved in the region. According to VisitScotland, the site was occupied as far back as 3000 BC.
In total, the tourism board states that Kilmartin Glen has more than 350 ancient monuments within a six-mile radius. Around 150 of these are believed to be prehistoric.
In addition to the standing stones, among the other highlights are a henge monument, numerous cists, and a 'linear cemetery' that is comprised of five burial cairns. A number of these of these are decorated with cup and ring marks, as are many natural rocks.
VisitScotland commented: "The Nether Largie Stones are among the most significant prehistoric monuments in Scotland. Set against a backdrop of green hills and misty moorland, the site offers an evocative space to experience the Solstice.
"Temple Wood's 13 standing stones form one of the best-preserved stone circles in the area. The site's use began before 3000 BC and continued into the Bronze Age, with evidence of an earlier timber circle predating the stones by nearly 2,000 years.
"It's a quietly evocative place that adds even more depth to the glen's rich prehistoric landscape."
For those wishing to learn more about the Kilmartin Glen, VisitScotland recommends a visit to Kilmartin Museum. Visitors of all ages can obtain a unique insight into the lives of the ancient people that inhabited the surrounding area thousands of years ago.
The tourism board added: "To begin your journey, Kilmartin Museum is an essential first stop. Recently redeveloped, the museum provides fascinating context on the area's archaeological heritage and offers a self-guided trail map linking many of the glen's key sites by foot."
The full list of Scotland's top standing stones can be found on the VisitScotland website.
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