Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most iconic images of Scotland, dating back to the middle of the 13th century. It is situated on an island at the point where three lochs meet: Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh. It is one of the most visited sites in Scotland and was one of the highlights of my visit.
Map of island
£12 entrance fee
Footbridge, c. early 20th century
Bridge across the loch
The castle was first built in the mid-13th century. Since then, four different versions of the castle have been built and rebuilt as Scottish history unfolded. The castle was mostly the stronghold of the MacKenzie clan and their allies the MacRaes. After the castle was destroyed in the Jacobite rebellion (by the British Royal Navy) of 1719, the castle lay in ruin for almost 200 years. The castle was fully rebuilt between the years 1920 and 1932 and opened to the public in 1955. It is a famous filming location and has been features in movies such as Highland and the World is Not Enough (James Bond).
Historic cannon
Memorial to men of the MacRae clan who died in WWI
Loch Long (?)
Monk inside the castle
Bridge and castle