95 64 24. Discover its secrets, and its history... , unexcitingly means ‘Isle of Donnan’. The castle is surrounded by an exceptionally large and well-maintained garden and country park and is currently managed by the National Trust for Scotland. It therefore comes as a surprise to discover that although the island has been fortified since at least the Iron Age, the castle you see today was only rebuilt from earlier ruins in the years between 1913 and 1932. It is located in the western Highlands of Scotland and is part of the Kintail National Scenic Area, one of forty in Scotland . View of Eilean Donan Castle, by the Kyle of Lochalsh on October 25, 2010 in Scotland, United Kingdom. Become a Redditor. Towers, Fortifications, And Medieval Defence. Framed Mounted Print of Eilean Donan castle is situated on a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlands of Scotland. Including famous castles, crusader castles and cathar castles. Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland Eilean Donan (Scottish Gaelic: Eilean Donnain) is a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlands of Scotland. Eilean Donan Castle. Welcome to Out About Scotland. Scotland Landscape. The iconic Eilean Donan Castle is a must see when in the area even if it's to only stop in the car park and walk around the foreshore admiring the building and its setting. Donnan was a Celtic saint martyred in about 617, and it’s said that his followers once built a church upon the island – although we’ve little evidence of that.Scottish legends say that the castle was founded by a mysterious warrior, blessed with the skills to talk to birds after drinking from a raven’s skull at birth (see ‘the legend’, below).More prosaically, a ca… Getting around: Easy-access paths, Disabled access, Pushchair access, On-site conveniences: Gift shop, Hot drinks, Picnic area, Restaurant, Snacks, Toilets. The view across the meeting point of the three lochs is beautiful. As picturesque as Dunrobin Castle, Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Scotland. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. As one of the most iconic images of Scotland, Eilean Donan is recognised all around the world. I loved the cafe – great food at a reasonable price (check out the home-baked cakes before you leave). It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Don’t miss one of Scotland’s most picturesque castles. Eilean Donan in the Gloaming © Petr Meissner/Flickr The first documented castle was built in the 13th century during the reign of the Scottish King Alexander II. Eilean Donan Castle. Tel: 01599 555202 Fax: 01599 555262 Discover more Scottish fortifications in my Guide to the Best Castles to Visit in Scotland. But there’s more to Eilean Donan castle than picture-perfect photos, and its long and turbulent history is worth investigating just as much as the gorgeous lochs and Highland landscape that surround it. Item Information. The castle has an admission fee and is open daily, with regular closures for holidays. Guide to the Best Castles to Visit in Scotland, The Complete Guide to Visiting Rosslyn Chapel in Midlothian, The Complete Guide to Visiting Dunnottar Castle in Grampian, The Complete Guide to Visiting Linlithgow Palace in West Lothian, The Complete Guide to Visiting Hopetoun House in the Lothians, The Complete Guide to The Arran Coastal Way, The Complete Guide to Visiting Holy Isle, Arran, The Complete Guide to Visiting Brodick Castle on Arran. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. History The name Eilean Donan, or island of Donan, is most probably called after the 6th century Irish Saint, Bishop Donan who came to Scotland around 580 AD. Opens at 9.00am during July & August, and 9.30am in September. Price: US $20.25. As picturesque as Dunrobin Castle, Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Scotland. Category: Castle, Historic building, Loch, Suitable for ages: 5 to 10 years, 11 to 18 years, 18+ years, 65+ years, Ideal for: Couples, Families, Groups, Solo travellers. The Eilean Donan Castle, pronounced Ail-en Don-an, is strategically perched on its own tidal island at the point where three lochs meet and is surrounded by the lush mountains of Kintail. Scotland’s most beautiful castle. Take a walk along the shores of Loch Duich and Loch Long to see gorgeous scenery. Eilean Donan which translates to the island of Donan dates back from 13 th century. Eilean Donan Castle is 9 miles (14 kilometers) east of Lochalsh. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and surrounded by some majestic scenery, it is little wonder that the castle is now one of the most visited and important attractions in the Scottish High… 136 160 19. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Whenever we are lucky enough to visit Kintail a trip to Eilean Donan castle. Eilean Donan is the ideal location for many special occasions. Made in London. As you walk through each room you can’t fail to be impressed by the traces of clan history dotted about in every nook and cranny, and it’s easy to forget that these buildings were only reconstructed from a pile of ruins a hundred years ago. The Eilean Donan Castle Scotland is a great spot for photography both at sunrise and sunset as there are views from each side; Also consider the tide that can help you get great reflections Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. It was to be nearly two hundred years before Eilean Donan castle was resurrected into the structure that we see today, thanks to the efforts of Lt Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap (a descendant of the MacRae clan) who had the buildings completely rebuilt as a family home using the stones from the original fortification. Tourists are well catered for during their visit with a  bright and modern visitor centre on the far side of the bridge which also houses a really good restaurant (the yummy home-made shortbread is recommended), and there’s a well-stocked gift shop where you can pick up some decent souvenirs and MacRae clan memorabilia. Whenever we are lucky enough to visit Kintail a trip to Eilean Donan castle. Eilean Donan Castle is one of Scotland's most famous fortresses. Situated on an island at the point where three great sea lochs meet, and surrounded by some majestic scenery, it is little wonder that the castle is now one of the most visited and important attractions in the Scottish highlands. See the T&C below for full details. You’re free to wander around the castle at your own pace (there’s no obligatory tour, thankfully) and while it’s not exactly the biggest attraction in Scotland I’d plan at least two to three hours for your visit. The most popular wooded areas are; Brodick Castle, Dyemill, Glenrickard, King’s Cave, North Sannox and South End. All in all, Eilean Donan Castle encapsulates everything that’s great about Scottish historic attractions and I’ve no doubt you’ll enjoy your visit, whatever your age or interests. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Rollei 35SE. The castle frequently appears in photographs, films and television programmes, The castle lies about 1 kilometre (0.62 mi) from the village of Dornie. Holy Isle is located close to the eastern shore of the Isle of Arran on Scotland’s west coast. Castle Ruin Scotland. It is, without any exaggeration, a Scottish icon. There’s a sensation you get in every room that you’re experiencing something special, and it’s a sensation that becomes overwhelming once you step outside and see the three lochs merging into each other against the spectacular Highlands scenery. 3 comments . Eilean Donan Castle is operated by The Conchra Charitable Trust and is a Registered Scottish Charity (SC 017346) regulated by The Scottish Charity Register (OSCR)." 92 133 8. It was a very wet day that we visited this time, but weather did not detract from our visit at all, All current Covid rules applied to the letter, by very friendly staff. At this time the castle was inhabited by several Jacobite commanders accompanied by a garrison of sympathetic Spanish soldiers, and it was rumoured that an enormous stockpile of gunpowder was secreted away inside the castle walls. It’s spine-tingling stuff. The Arran Coastal Way is a circular cycling and walking route around the perimeter of the Isle of Arran on Scotland’s west coast. Get there early or be swarmed by crowds. to 10 years, 11 to 18 years, 18+ years, 65+ years, The Complete Guide to Visiting the Isle of Tiree Music Festival, The Complete Guide to Visiting the Jacobite Steam Train in the Highlands, The Complete Guide to Visiting Saint Andrews Cathedral in Central Scotland. If you’re on a sightseeing tour in the area you might like to visit. Eilean Donan castle in the western Highlands of Scotland, UK, 5ce151893f1754571e64af049d9137ed 45 67 8. Homepage » Scotland's Regions » Highlands and Islands. Donnan was a Celtic saint martyred in about 617, and it’s said that his followers once built a church upon the island – although we’ve little evidence of that. Adding to your cart. A number of tour companies offer daytrips. Shortly thereafter the first incarnation of Eilean Donan Castle was created, a huge fortification of seven towers connected by massive curtain walls that ran around the entire perimeter of the island. On hearing this the British government sent three Royal Navy frigates to bring the Jacobites under control, and through a combination of cannon bombardments and ground-based attacks the Jacobites and Spanish were forced to retreat. There are several churches dedicated to Donan in the area and it is likely that he formed a small cell or … As the castle was rebuilt the iconic bridge was also added and a central keep was constructed to serve as the MacRae clan family home, all of which you can explore during your visit. Whenever we are lucky enough to visit Kintail a trip to Eilean Donan castle. The lochs of Duich, Long and Alsh provide the stunning foreground to a panorama where the eastern-most tip of the Isle of Skye fills the horizon while the hills of the Kintail National Scenic Area surround the castle in all directions. Eilean Donan, the Castle where three lochs meet, famous for its fairytale bridge and spectacular, remote setting with a view to the Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most incredible elopement venues. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Weddings, private celebrations, conferences, fashion shoots and film are just a few examples of the versatility of Eilean Donan as a setting for social and business events. Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other. The Castle is a very popular destination for tourist and features a coffee shop which offers a delicious selection of snacks and hot food, and of course good Scottish baking, and a gift shop where you can buy books, souvenirs, cards, jewelry and all kinds of Eilean Donan … If you really fall in love with Eilean Donan then you can even have your wedding held there for the ultimate romantic day, and there are self-catering apartments just a couple of minutes away if you fancy staying nearby for a relaxing break. eilean donan castle - eilean donan castle stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Welcome to Reddit, the front page of the internet. Eilean Donan is recognised as one of the most iconic images of Scotland all over the world. Over the years Eilean Donan Castle was used primarily by clans Mackenzie and MacRae as a stronghold, but it was the early 18th-century Jacobite uprising which eventually led to its downfall. Legal: Outaboutscotland.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.co.uk. 255 267 23. eilean donan castle, scotland - eilean donan castle stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images. Condition: Used. This castle seems to be on the itinerary of every coach tour in Scotland. Located on a small tidal island at the point where three sea lochs meet, the castle offers one of the loveliest views in Scotland, instantly recognisable from a thousand shortbread tins and travel websites. Located on a small tidal island at the point where three sea lochs meet, the castle offers one of the loveliest views in Scotland, instantly recognisable from a thousand shortbread tins and travel websites. The forests of Arran offer some of the best mountain biking routes of any of the west-coast islands and any cycle ride is almost guaranteed to include sightings of Arran’s famed red squirrels. The item you've selected was not added to your cart. This easy-going trail rewards visitors with stunning views at every section of its 65-mile length and there are plenty of opportunities to deviate onto nearby attractions along the way. Eilean Donan Castle is operated by The Conchra Charitable Trust and is a Registered Scottish Charity (SC 017346) regulated by The Scottish Charity Register (OSCR)." The first known inhabitants on the island were a Christian order who dedicated a church to the 7th-century Saint Donnan of Eigg, but it wasn’t until the 13th-century that the island changed from a site of religious worship to a fortified castle. Photographing Eilean Donan Castle Scotland. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Related Images: scotland castle eilean donan landscape landmark highlands fortress architecture building. Copyright: All photos, videos, downloadable files and texts are the property of Craig Smith unless otherwise cited or under a CC0 licence and may not be used or reproduced elsewhere without permission. The commanding officer of the British forces gave the order to blow the castle up (which was achieved with devastating effect) and the fortification was completely destroyed in the process. strange, triangular shape of Caerlaverock Castle. The castle is fascinating to explore. Scotland England. I use cookies to improve your experience on this website. Eilean Donan Castle, near Dornie, is one of the most easily recognised castles in Scotland and probably appears on more calendars than any other. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Eilean Donan is one of Scotland’s most-visited historic attractions and it’s popular with tourists from all over the world, who come not only to admire the views but also to explore the battlements, secret spy holes and maze of rooms that make the castle such an extraordinary ancestral home. and join one of thousands of communities. There’s plenty to see inside and the guides are very helpful if you’ve got any questions. Pre-book your Eilean Donan Castle tour tickets here. Sign in to check out Check out as guest . Vintage Antique Metal Match Box Matches Eilean Donan Castle Scotland . ‘Eilean Donan’, pronounced aye-lean don-an, unexcitingly means ‘Isle of Donnan’. Brodick Castle, former seat of power of the Dukes of Hamilton, is a grand 19th-century castle located a few miles north of the town of Brodick on the Isle of Arran. There’s a whole heap of historical artefacts to view during your visit showcased in rooms that look like they’ve come straight of an Outlander novel, and I can pretty much guarantee you’ll end your day having learned more about the history of Scotland than you were expecting. 64 95 4. ... Scotland’s most beautiful castle . Eilean Donan Castle. Historic Places Eilean Donan Eilean Donan is located in the village of Dornie in the Highlands area known as Kintail, poised on a small island in Loch Duich. Visit Eilean Donan Castle. Vintage Antique Metal Match Box Matches Eilean Donan Castle Scotland . The iconic Eilean Donan Castle is a must see when in the area even if it's to only stop in the car park and walk around the foreshore admiring the building and its setting. Around this time Scotland was under frequent attacks from Norse expeditions that were moving in from the Western Isles, so the Scots ruler Alexander II decreed that a castle was necessary at the point where the three great lochs meet in order to defend his realm. The Most Photographed Castle in Scotland When one visits Scotland, you can’t shop without seeing the image of Eilean Donan Castle—and not just on postcards. Add to cart. In this website I’ll show you the best places to visit and give you lots of tips for making the most of your visit. Eilean Donan Castle. A picturesque castle that frequently appears in photographs, film and television dominates the island, which lies about 1 kilometre ( ⁄8 mi) from the village of Dornie. The Capture of Eilean Donan Castle was an land-based naval engagement that took place in 1719 during the Jacobite rising of that year, and the War of the Quadruple Alliance.A British naval reconnaissance force of three ships attacked the castle of Eilean Donan on the west coast of Scotland, which was held by Spanish troops. Eilean Donan Castle Dornie by Kyle of Lochalsh IV40 8DX. And the spectacular photos don't do it justice! Scotland. These cookies do not store any personal information. It was a very wet day that we visited this time , but weather did not detract from our visit at all, All current Covid rules applied to the letter , by very friendly staff. If you have the time during your visit you should wait until dusk and watch the colours of the setting sun bounce off the loch as it fades into the landscape. To my mind, it’s an iconic castle that you absolutely have to put at the top of your Scotland sightseeing itinerary. Scotland’s most beautiful castle . Follow my adventures on Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube or contact me here. 111 119 11. Book your tickets online for Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh: See 4,313 reviews, articles, and 4,337 photos of Eilean Donan Castle, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 16 attractions in Kyle of Lochalsh. It’s a truly beautiful sight and one that has to be seen by any visitor to Scotland. Outaboutscotland.com also participates in affiliate programs with Awin, CJ, and other sites. Eilean Donan (Scottish Gaelic: Eilean Donnain) is a small tidal island where three sea lochs meet, Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh, in the western Highlands of Scotland. Outaboutscotland.com is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. This small (one square mile) island has a rich religious history dating back hundreds of years and the tradition of quiet seclusion continues to this day thanks to the Centre for World Peace and Health located on the western edge of the isle. I’m Craig, I live in Edinburgh and I love exploring Scotland’s attractions. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 88 86 4. It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands. Today Eilean Donan Castle is the most photographed castle in Scotland and a symbolic icon of the country which sits on its own little island at a point in Kyle of Lochalsh, where three lochs meet surrounded by the Kintail Mountains of the region. As the English troops moved in a search was ordered to discover if the supposed stockpile of gunpowder actually existed – which it did – and more than 300 barrels of the explosive were uncovered. The image… Since the castle's restoration in the early 20th century, a footbridge has connected the island to the mainland. 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