Posted by Maris on 17th Oct 2023
7 Must-see Castles in the Scottish Highlands
One of the best things about the Scottish Highlands is that you're seldom more than a few miles away from an ancient castle or fortification. Some are now in ruins, while others have been restored to their former splendor. Scottish castles, sometimes set on a rolling hill, the banks of a deep loch, or a tidal island, exude romance. But don't be fooled: these stone walls have witnessed some major events. Here are some of our favorite castles to explore the history and mystery of the Highlands, from horrible murders and brutal conflicts to wars that impacted history.
Urquhart Castle, Inverness
With its location on the banks of Loch Ness, the home of Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, it's easy to imagine how magnificent Urquhart Castle was in its heyday. Though it is now in ruins, you may still climb the Grant Tower to search for Nessie in the murky loch, see inside creepy jail cells, or stroll around the old great hall where spectacular banquets were held. Urquhart Castle was also the site of some of Scotland's most critical battles, such as the Wars of Independence and Jacobite Uprisings.
Dunrobin Castle & Gardens, Golspie
Dunrobin Castle is just wonderful. It has been the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland's family residence for nearly 700 years, making it one of Britain's oldest continually occupied stately homes. With 189 rooms, it is also the largest castle in the northern Highlands. Explore a maze of vast passageways and marvel at fairytale turrets, high ceilings, glittering chandeliers, and gorgeous fireplaces. Then venture outside to see zigzagged hedges, colorful flower gardens, and breathtaking vistas of the Moray Firth.
Old Inverlochy Castle, Fort William
This medieval castle was built on the banks of the Lochy River in 1280AD. Old Inverlochy had an important role in Scottish history because of its strategic location, which allowed clans to defend their land. Few castles from this age have withstood the test of time, so strolling around the walls among so much history is a fantastic sense.
A three-sided moat, four round corner towers, and two opposing gates guarded by barbicans, one of which still exists at full height, defended Old Inverlochy. The moat silted up long ago, but think how magnificent it must have looked back then.
Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum, Isle of Skye
Clan Donald (Macdonalds of Sleat), one of Scotland's largest and most powerful clans, had their last ancestral stronghold at Armadale Castle on the beautiful Isle of Skye. In the museum, you may learn about Clan Donald's rich history before strolling over 40 acres of stunning gardens and woodlands. The castle is located exactly in the centre of the grounds, with panoramic views of the Sound of Sleat. It's not difficult to picture how stunning it was in its peak.
Dunvegan Castle
Dunvegan Castle on the Isle of Skye is Scotland's oldest continually inhabited castle. For nearly 800 years, it has served as the ancestral house of the MacLeod clan's chiefs. The castle is cut into sheer rock on the shore of Loch Dunvegan and offers stunning views of the island. Inside, wonderful antique furniture and family heirlooms dating back to the Middle Ages can be found. You'll also see the Fairy Flag, which is said to have brought the Macleod clan luck in fights and wins. Don't forget to take a boat trip on the loch to witness the grey seal colony that lives on the neighboring islets.
Eilean Donan Castle, Dornie
Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most famous Scottish sites, standing on a small tidal island surrounded by steep peaks and three vast sea lochs. You might recognize it from films such as James Bond's The World Is Not Enough (1999). The castle was established in the sixth century, but the structure you see today was built in the 1930s after the majority of the previous edifice was destroyed during the Jacobite uprisings. Inside, there's a labyrinth of winding passages, vast rooms, and rare artifacts. The castle is said to be haunted by a Spanish soldier and an apparition known as Lady Mary, so keep a look out for any strange occurrences as you stroll about.
Inverness Castle
All Shakespeare fans are invited. The hypothetical backdrop for Macbeth is Inverness Castle, and it's easy to see why the literary genius was inspired by it. The red sandstone castle stands on the banks of the River Ness, offering panoramic views of the city. Because the castle currently houses the Inverness Sheriff Court, only the gardens and the north tower are open to the public. It's absolutely worth climbing the tower, but here's a little secret: around sunset, head over to the river bank opposite the castle to see the red sandstone sparkle in the final rays of sunlight. You will not be sorry.