Eilean Donan Castle - Kyle of Lochalsh, Highlands

eilean donan castle, scotlandThis is certainly one of the most romantically situated castles in Britain standing on a tiny island at the entrance to Loch Duich, facing the Isle of Skye.

The first fortress built on this site was erected in the 13th century to deter Norse invaders. A century later it was strengthened by the addition of the Keep In the North East corner of the wall.

The castle later became the stronghold of the McKinsey Earls of Seaforth but unfortunately was, in the 18th century bombarded and destroyed by English frigates after the Jacobite 5th Earl supported the Old pretender and installed a Spanish garrison in the castle. The modern restoration of the castle in the early 20th century by the McRae family saw the keep and other parts of the castle restored in a convincingly medieval style.

Eilean Donan castle is said today to be haunted by one of the Spanish soldiers who perished during the endless bombardment mentioned above. He is said to wander the castle with his head tucked under his arm.