Stone Stacks From Around the World in 12 Mesmerising Pictures
There’s nothing more pleasing than a carefully engineered stone stack or rock cairn. And the fact that they spring up in the most wanderlust-worthy destinations only adds to the magic.
Despite the stone-stacking resurgence of late, the practice dates back to prehistoric Scotland, where rock cairns were used as ancient wayfinding references and spiritual markers.
Not including the traditional cairns built specifically for navigating and marking summits, trackless paths or ancient monuments (seriously, don’t touch them), a wide array of artists, creatives and zen-seekers across the world look to stone stacking as an art form. Oh, and it just so happens to be wildly therapeutic!
Many can conjure up sky-high towers, while some even concoct dramatic stone-arched bridges. Since the correct status quo is to leave no trace, these intricate sculptures usually garnish the landscapes before shifting back to their natural state.
After admiring the otherworldly creations from the 2018 European Stone Stacking Championships (Europe’s largest stacking competition) held in Dunbar near Edinburgh, we’ve put together some of the most aesthetically satisfying pictures of stone stacks from all over the world.
Whether a self-confessed stacking pro or searching for some calming material, these gravity-defying structures are everything.
Soaring towards the sky.
Snapshot of the talent from the 2018 European Stone Stacking Championships in Scotland. The Scots have always had a discerning eye for design.
Now, this is satisfying.
Ah, only a stone master could create this.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how it’s done in Scotland! Pure creative genius at the 2018 European Stone Stacking Championships.
Bowing to the waterfall.
Edgy.
A lone stone totem pole in Switzerland.
A seaside stack looking pretty fine.
A careful balancing act in Mull, Scotland.
Blending in.
Watching the ebb and flow of the soothing tides.
Curious about stone stacking? Explore our rock cairn guide to learn all about the history and discover how to use them.
Read Next
The 15 Best Cities in the World for Art
The 11 Best European Destinations for a November Adventure
9 Incredible Neolithic Sites to See in Scotland
15 British Children's Shows That Will Make You Nostalgic
The Best and Cheapest Winter Sun Destinations in Europe
10 English Words That Have Completely Changed Meaning
The Best Budget Ski Resorts Across Europe
The Coolest Neighbourhoods in Liverpool
10 Top Things To Do And See In Edinburgh At Christmas
The Most Epic Cliffs In The World
The 11 Best and Cheapest European Cities to Visit This Autumn
This Is Why Whisky Is Better for You Than Any Other Drink
BLACK FRIDAY
Save up to $1,322 on our small-group trips! Limited spots.
