The Carrachs

The Carrachs

Chapeltown, Ballindalloch, Banffshire, AB37 9JS

The Carrachs was one of the few places in Scotland where the Roman Catholic faith was kept alive during the troubled times of the 18th century. Now this remote location makes for a great place to spot and photograph the Aurora with nearby abandoned farm buildings, picturesque trees and the old Seminary making for great foreground objects. The location itself is about half a mile walk from the car park at the very end of the public road.

In November 2018 the location received official recognition as a Dark Sky Discovery Site in the Cairngorms Dark Sky Park.


The Carrachs is a Dark Sky Discovery Site, an officially recognised place where anyone can stargaze. Most such locations have overnight parking (sometimes with a fee); however, many do not allow overnight camping. There may or may not be toilet facilities.

Weather forecast

  • 04/10/24

    5%
  • 04/10/24

    6%
  • 05/10/24

    11%
  • 05/10/24

    10%

Weather forecast for Carn Mor (1.8 miles away) updated 04/10/24 at 04:01.




Forthcoming events

Below is a list of events at The Carrachs. View these events on our calendar, add them to your calendar or Google Calendar.

  • Night Walk and Stargazing at Scalan

    Friday 4th October 2024 from 19:45pm to 21:45pm

    The Carrachs, Ballindalloch, AB37 9JS

    More info
  • Night Walk and Stargazing at Scalan

    Friday 4th October 2024 from 19:45pm to 21:15pm

    The Carrachs, Ballindalloch, AB37 9JS

    More info

Stay and gaze nearby

Stay at one of these stargazing-friendly accommodation providers.

  • Howe of Torbeg

    Glen Gairn, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5XL (13.4 miles away)

    Stay & Gaze

    More info
  • Lickleyhead Castle

    Premnay, Insch, Aberdeenshire, AB52 6PN, Scotland (23.9 miles away)

    Stay & Gaze

    More info