Knockfarrel is a long ridge,
stretching from Strathpeffer to Dingwall. Known locally as the
Cat's Back, it is the site of a 3,000 year old vitrified fort
thought to have been built by the Picts.
The fort had substantial ramparts
made of stones with a timber frame, enclosing a large area and made
good use of the natural defenses of the hill-top. At some time, the
timber of the walls was set on fire, creating enough heat to melt
the rock. The remains of the vitrification can still be seen
running all around the perimeter of the fort.
From the summit there are stunning
panoramic views in all directions. On a good day, the view of
nearby Ben Wyvis to the North West is wonderful.
There are good footpaths to
Knockfarrel from Strathpeffer, Blackmuir Wood Forest Walk and
Fodderty.
However, the easiest route is to
approach by road from Maryburgh. Turn west onto the A835 towards
Contin. Take the first turning on the right, signposted for
Knockfarrel. Follow the signs for Knockfarrel and you will find a
rough car park actually on the top. . From here it is a 5 minute
walk North along the ridge to the fort.
The cache is a regular ammo box and
at the time of placing (Easter Sunday 2006), contained:
Model Plane Kit
2 x balsa wood plane kits (excellent for flying off the top of
Knockfarrel)
2 packs of glow in the dark sticks
A pot of slime
Assorted toys
A shoe horn
A paracord keyring (made by myself)
Please be careful when retrieving
the cache, as the top of the ridge is a popular footpath for
walkers, fellrunners, dogwalkers etc..a