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The Beautiful Eilean Donan Castle
Scottish Castles > Eilean Donan Castle Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most beautiful and breathtaking Castles in Scotland, stands proud on the main tourist route to the Isle of Skye.
Perhaps the most photographed castle in the country, Eilean Donan is now owned by the Conchra Charitable Trust, and maintained for the public. The Castle sits in one of the most stunning locations, on its own island, where three great sea-lochs meet, and surrounded by the most spectacular mountain scenery. She was built in the mid 13th century as a fortified castle, for Alexander II as a defence against the Vikings, although it is believed She was first inhabited around the 6th century. Since then, She has been built and re-built on at least four occasions as Scotland’s feudal history unfolded through the centuries. One of her most famous visitors was in the fourteenth century when Robert the Bruce, at the time when he was out of favour with some of the clan chiefs, and hunted by the English, was given refuge in Eilean Donan Castle by John MacKenzie, Second of Kintail. Eilean Donan Castle lay in ruins for the best part of 200 years, following the Jacobite uprising in 1719, when she was recaptured, and then demolished by three Royal Navy frigates in May of that year. The Island hosting the castle was bought in 1911 by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap, who restored Her. After 20 years of toil and labour the castle was re-opened in 1932. The restoration included the construction of an arched bridge to give easier access to the castle. Even if you have no interest in history, this magnificent structure is worth visiting for the breathtaking scenery of the area surrounding it. Amid hills and trees in a somewhat romantic setting, everything about the dream-like Eilean Donan Castle is bound to enchant you. Eilean Donan Castle has featured in many films, including the 1995 movie Loch Ness starring Ted Danson. It was used in a few shots in place of Urquhart Castle (which is the real castle on Loch Ness). The castle also features in the promotional video for the Highland Year of Culture 2007. The restored castle has been open to the public since 1928, and on a clear day it is possible to see the Isle of Skye from the castle. Donan House is the nearest B&B, where you can enjoy breakfast with magnificent views of Loch Duich, spotting porpoises and seals. The name Eilean Donan, or island of Donan, is thought to be called after the 6th century Irish Saint, Bishop Donan who came to Scotland around 580 AD. At that time Eilean Donan offered the perfect defensive position. Eilean Donan Castle is said to have its own ghosts, but it has not deterred many celebrities from having a wedding there. Quite rightly, Eilean Donan is often described as the most beautiful castle in Scotland. 10am - 6.00pm (Last Admission 5.00pm) Admission Prices : Adults £4.95 Find A Hotel In Scotland. Different providers, different prices, and user reviews. Save time and money, search them here for the best deal. More Scottish Castles : Edinburgh Castle
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