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Castles in Kyle of Lochalsh , Highlands and Islands
Eilean Donan Castle
Dornie
Kyle of Lochalsh
Highlands and Islands
IV40 8DX
Tel: +44(0)1599 555202
Fax: +44(0)1599 555262
Email: click here
Eilean Donan Castle online: information and bookings
Eilean Donan Castle is built in a small island where three lochs converge – Loch Alsh, Loch Long, and Loch Duich. Because there is a fresh water well on the island it has been inhabited from earliest times. There is evidence of a Pictish fort from vitrified rock which has been found near the Castle, and in the 7th century St. Donan lived on the island as a religious hermit.
The first fortified stronghold was built about 1260 by Alexander 2nd. In 1263 Alexander 3rd gave the Castle to Colin Fitzgerald who was the progenitor of the Mackenzies.
The MacRaes formed the bodyguard to the Earls of Seaforth, and became known as Mackenzie’s Coat of Mail. They often served as constables of the Castle and were involved in many raids and seiges.
In 1719 the Castle had a garrison of 48 Spaniards sent over to help the Old Pretender regain his throne. The English sent three frigates up the loch to take the Castle, but it was only after they gained access and set fire to the Spaniard’s arsenal that the Castle was blown up and became a ruin for the next 200 years. Colonel MacRae-Gilstrap bought the ruined Castle in 1912, and with the help of Farquhar MacRae rebuilt the castle between 1912 and 1932. Farquhar MacRae had seen a vision of the ruined stronghold restored to its former glory. Later, plans of Eilean Donan were found in Edinburgh Castle, and every detail was found to be true of Farquhar’s vision.
The countryside surrounding Eilean Donan is of exceptional beauty and grandeur, with breathtaking mountain, loch and forest scenery. For nature lovers there are Otters and Seals, Wild Goats, Red and Roe Deer to be seen, whilst overhead one may see Ravens, Buzzards, and if lucky, the occasional Golden Eagle. The impressive Falls of Glomach, near Dornie, are well worth the long hard climb up to them. One of the highest in Britain, the water thunders down 300ft.
Nearby is the famous Isle of Skye, with its magnificent range of mountains, the Cuillins, and many places of interest to visit.
Sixteen miles South of Eilean Donan are the imposing remains of three Pictish Brochs, which were once to be seen all over the North of Scotland.
Facilities
Historic House, Tea Room, Picnic Area, Children, Car Park, Private Group Tours, School Tours Available, Visitors can see the History Exhibition, Billeting Room, Banqueting Hall, Bedroom and a 1930’s Kitchen. There is a gift shop and coffee shop in the Castle car park. Plenty of parking for cars and buses.
In case of alteration, please check prices, opening times and any specific important information before booking or visiting
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Caberfeidh House, ArdelveGlenelg Inn, Glenelg
Eilean a Cheo, Ardelve
Grants At Craigellachie, Shiel Bridge
