Five must-visit castles in the Scottish Highlands

Eilean Donan, Dornie

Eilean Donan, a wildly popular and must-see castle on the route to the Isle of Skye, is perhaps the most recognisable and Insta-worthy stronghold. Originally built during the thirteenth century (what you see today dates from the early 1900s) it’s situated on a small tidal island at the meeting place of three sea lochs. Circled by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintailin, its breathtaking setting explains why visitors flock here. Rich in history and heritage, inside you’ll find period furniture, Jacobean artefacts, ancient weapon displays and fine art. Wildlife-rich too, you may spot porpoise, dolphins, otters and all sorts of birdlife during your visit. The castle’s profile silhouetted against a pink-tinged sunset is something to behold. 

Stay at Avernish Lodge

A new-build in local stone with vast windows gazing out at the meeting place of three beautiful lochs. The sitting room is designed to bring the outside in, with six large windows and a special viewing chair. It’s an uncluttered space with clever lighting, underfloor heating and a roaring wood burner giving warmth and atmosphere at night. Bedrooms are large with fat mattresses, squishy pillows and doors to the outside so you can enjoy morning tea transfixed by big skies and watery vistas. Head out onto the water, swim if you’re brave, paddle board, kayak, or simply look out for wildlife.

Owner’s tips: If atmospheric pubs and delicious seafood is your thing, why not take the 20-minute drive to the seafront village of Plockton.

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Urquhart Castle, Loch Ness

With a superb position on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is a hot-spot for Nessie hunting and it can get extremely busy in summer. Nevertheless the atmospheric ruins, sparkling loch views and huge, interactive visitor centre really bring the medieval past to life. It has a chequered war-like history, lost and reclaimed by both the Scots and the English in turn, until the last soldiers marched out of the castle and deliberately blew it up in 1692. There are boat trips and tours so it’s possible to cruise the lake as well as visit the castle. Finish up with refreshments in the cafe enjoying the view over the castle, the loch and the rolling hills of the Great Glen. 

Stay at Fettes Farmhouse

A traditional sandstone farmhouse on the Black Isle with a wonderful position and grand views overlooking the Beauly Firth. There’s masses of space indoors with two living rooms, a separate dining room and a big kitchen. Warm, traditional and very comfortable bedrooms have gorgeous views through big windows. Outdoors you’ll find a large garden with lawns for tumbling on, views to the distant water, barbecue and outdoor table and chairs. Lounge in the wood fired hot tub – the best spot for stargazing. Discover the ruined castle on the estate and spot red squirrels, pine martens and the ospreys who nest here every year.

Owner Katie: You’re a ten-minute drive to Inverness and local pubs/restaurants. There is the most beautiful drive along the shore road to North Kessock – even better by bike!

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Castle Tioram, Ardnamurchan Peninsula

The remote Ardnamurchan peninsula, jutting out to wild seas, and home to a hauntingly beautiful ruined castle, Tioram, is the most westerly point of Britain. Balanced on its own tidal island it’s possible to walk across a sandy bar at low tide – check the times – to this atmospheric ruin. Generally thought to have been built in the 13th-century it’s one of Scotland’s most historically significant castles and is protected by Historic Scotland. The remote location and lack of facilities mean you’ll often get the place to yourself and there are stunning walks along ancient Highland paths. Pack a picnic and stroll beside the rocky coastline, through beautiful woodland and into the heather-clad hills.

Stay at Aspen Lodge

Your stone and timber lodge on the little-known Ardnamurchan Peninsula has a hillside setting and views from every window – use the telescope to spot red deer, golden eagles or the elusive Scottish wildcat if you’re lucky. Downstairs is cosy with an open fire and plenty of books and you’ll find a minibar and a welcome hamper which includes homemade jam, cake, wine and Scottish shortbread. You can walk and cycle from the door, launch a kayak straight into the sea loch at the bottom of the large, open garden or set off with a picnic for a day on the beach, just a five-minute drive away.

Owner’s tips: There are a number of stunning beaches on the doorstep: Camas Nan Geall which is covered in golden glitter sand, Sanna Bay which looks like it should be in the Caribbean, and the Singing Sands which ‘sings’ as you walk across it! 

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Dunvegan Castle, Isle of Skye

Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Ancestral home of the MacLeod clan for over 800 years, it remains the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod to this day. Carved into sheer rock on the loch shore, it’s a dramatic sight circled by five acres of formal gardens. Take the tour to discover family heirlooms – swords, silver and family portraits – dating back to the middle ages, and interesting artefacts, including the Fairy Flag, a sacred silk banner, Bonnie Prince Charlie’s waistcoat and a lock of his hair. Stroll the gardens, take a boat trip to see the seal colony, stop for refreshments in the cafe and pick up some traditional Scottish goodies in the shop. 

Stay at Captain’s Rest

A modern Skye bungalow furnished in island colours with gliding glass doors and heated floors, divine beds and walk-in showers. Bose speakers and smart TVs for entertainment and the finest kit in the kitchen when you want to entertain. Cosy up to the wood burner on a wild night, linger in the sauna, or wallow in the hot tub as the stars begin to bristle. With the touch of a button, roll up the blinds and bring the outdoors in. What a way to wake each day! The views are amazing and ever-changing… across the loch to the Cuillin Hills, and Rum and Canna on a cloudless day. Spend your days hiking and wild swimming, visit the great fortress of Dunvegan.

Owner’s tips: A half hour drive takes you to Portree, the main town, where you will find shops and restaurants. Take afternoon tea on the lawn at the Cuillin Hills Hotel overlooking the bay. 

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Dunrobin Castle

On the east coast of the highlands, overlooking the Moray Firth, is the fairytale French-chateau-style Dunrobin Castle. One of the largest of Scotland’s great houses it’s a must-visit if you’re on the Sutherland stretch of the North Coast 500. Although it dates from 1275, most of what you see was built in French style between 1845 and 1850 by the architect Sir Charles Barry. Adorned with towers and turrets, it’s a magnificent example of aristocratic life with hundreds of hunting trophies, gilt-framed portraits and family-crests on display. In total, 22 of its 182 rooms are open to visitors, as well as the formal gardens, also designed by Barry, who took inspiration from the Palace of Versailles gardens. 

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