Standing proudly as the symbol of highlands in Scotland, is the Highlander castle, Eilean Donan Castle. Scotland is home to many majestic castles, but Eilean Donan is undoubtedly the best of those. Famous for its appearance in the classic movie of 1986, Highlander, Eilean Donan Castle is now often referred to as the Highlander Castle or Dornie Castle. It is indeed my favourite castle in the region and I have narrated the beauty of this magical place from my personal experience along with its history and visiting information.
Eilean Donan which translates to the island of Donan dates back from 13th century. 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. Its unique location makes it different from all other castles in Scotland. Sitting on its own island, it overlooks the stunning Isle of Skye as well as the tiny beautiful village of Dornie. One of the perfect definitions of fairy-tale castles in the world, this Highlander castle is right out of a storybook and no trip to the Highlands can be done without a visit to the splendid Eilean Donan Castle, i even tried out my new present!
History of the Highlander Castle- Eilean Donan
Eilean Donan Castle depicts stories of hatred, jealousy, wars along with love and desire. The ruined walls of this castle have witnessed courage and valour along with hatred when the castle was initially built as a protective system for the land of Kintail, against the mighty Vikings. Today, it is one of the favourite choices for destination weddings and narrates stories of love. Eilean Donan Castle has been standing in the Scottish Highlands for times never to be forgotten. The castle is named after an Irish bishop, Donan, who migrated to Scotland and formed communities there. The castle was formed for defensive purposes and have remained as the “Sea Kingdom” for the Lord of Isles.
The castle has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times because of the attacks it has witnessed. One of the destruction that the castle faced was because of the Jacobites risings, another famous clan of Scotland, during the 17th and 18th century. In some parts, the walls of the castle are 14 feet in thickness which has been one of the main reasons for the castle to be a perfect protective building.
For around 200 years, the ruins of the Highlander Castle were left abandoned and neglected until in 1911 Lt Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap of Macrae family bought the castle and dedicated 20 years of his life to re-built it and bring back its former glory. The castle was formally opened in 1932 for the public. Today Eilean Donan Castle is the highlight of Scottish Highlands and is indeed a grandeur piece of architecture which has witnessed centuries of history.
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Eilean Donan castle in Highlander movie
One of the prominent appearances of Eilean Donan Castle was in the movie Highlander in 1986. It is mainly from the movie that the castle has got its name of Highlander Castle. The movie had a battle scene perfectly shot at the castle. Many people today visit the castle for the fandom of the movie Highlander.
Other than Highlander, Eilean Donan castle had been featured in many movies including Private Life of Sherlock Holmes, Loch Ness, Oliver’s Travels, The World is not Enough, Elizabeth: The Golden Age, Made of Honour and the famous Hindi movie, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
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Why visit the Eilean Donan Castle
Scotland is home to plenty of majestic castles, each one of them depicts a different story. However, Highlander Castle is love at first sight. Eilean Donan casts a magical spell around, making itself one of the most romantic icons in the country. Situated on a secluded island where three lochs meet with mountains in the backdrop and thick white clouds, Eilean Donan castle presents a breath-taking sight. There is tranquillity in the air, the atmosphere is surreal and serene, mainly as the castle is located in an area which isn’t ruined by tourism yet.
A bridge connects the island where the castle has been built with the mainland. The best view of the castle can be witnessed from the bridge, a perfect sight for the movies to be shot and romantic tales to be painted. Eilean Donan Castle is very picturesque and there are numerous spots inside the castle which presents beautiful spots for photos. Some views from the lower exterior of the castle are beyond words can describe and truly remarkable. The beautiful lochs can be seen as far as one can see, guarded by the mountains and ruled by the soothing environment. Visitors get an opportunity to wander through the rooms of the castle which walk one through the dark history witnessed by this place. It presents an incredible display of ancient furniture, Jacobean artefacts, weapons and fine arts. Moreover, there are regular sightings of wildlife including porpoises, dolphins, otters and birds in the area surrounding the castle.
The openings of the castle overlook the lochs, present some of the perfect scenes of Scotland. I can spend eternity enjoying the view from the castle. Eilean Donan castle indeed presents some spectacular pieces of natural beauty around its surroundings.
There is a flag hoisting ceremony at the castle every Tuesday and Friday at 11 AM (GMT) when the Scotland flag is being hoisted at the castle. This flag changes at every ceremony and the changed flag is available for sale to the public at £85. Additionally, the flag is also changed on the 30th of November which is the St. Andrew’s day. This ceremony is done in style with pure Scottish culture and costumes. I was lucky enough to witness this. A royal ceremony with true Scottish vibe adds to the glory of this majestic piece of architecture.
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Where is the Highlander Castle and how to visit
The castle is located in a small village of Dornie on the route going to the Isle of Skye in Scottish Highlands. There are multiple bus tours running from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, Mallaig and Isle of Skye to Eilean Donan Castle. Two hours is a generous time to enjoy the castle. The best idea is to either drive to the castle or take a bus tour. Most of the buses going to Isle of Skye from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness or Mallaig have stops at Eilean Donan Castle and it is worth to check those trips. While visiting the Isle of Skye, a stop at the Eilean Donan castle is the easiest way to enjoy this spectacular castle in the Highlands.
Eilean Donan is best seen at night. Against a pitch, dark background, yellow lights at the castle make it glow, presenting a breath-taking sight to enjoy.
Check out these tours to visit the Eilean Donan Castle along with other attractions of Scotland!
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Where to stay while visiting the Eilean Donan Castle
If you are looking for a perfect romantic accommodation, look no further than Eilean Donan Cottage and Eilean Donan Apartments. The cottages present an unobstructed view of the castle and are located at a walking distance, whereas the apartments are on a 15 minutes’ drive and offer more modern facilities.
Other than these, accommodation can be found in Dornie. Alternatively, one might stay in Skye or Inverness and visit the castle for a day trip.
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Facilities at the castle
There is a café located at the castle which serves fresh snacks and drinks and is opened during the working hours of the castle. Also, a gift shop is present which sells souvenirs of the castle and of Clan Macrae, one of the mighty clans of Scotland. The castle also hosts a visitor centre.
Note: The castle isn’t very access friendly for people with mobility issues as there are stairs to climb and the floor isn’t very well done either.
Eilean Donan castle hosts weddings also. Being a stunning, romantic location with water and mountains in the backdrop, it is indeed a perfect location to celebrate your big day.
Opening hours of the castle
The castle has different opening hours during the year.
2nd January- 23rd March
10 AM- 4 PM
24th March- 31st May
10 AM- 6 PM
1st June- 30th June
9.30 AM- 6 PM
1st July- 31st August
9 AM- 6 PM
1st September- 30th September
9.30 AM- 6 PM
1st October- 26th October
10 AM- 6 PM
27th October- 30th December
10 AM- 4 PM
Note: The castle is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day
The entry price for the castle
Everybody is provided with an audio guide except children under 5.
Adults
£10.00
Concessions (Seniors Aged 60+)
£9.00
Family (2 Adults + 3 Children Age 5-15)
£29.00
Children over 5
£6.00
Under 5
FREE
The beauty of Eilean Donan castle is unmatchable. Please do not take my word and treat yourself with a visit to this fairy-tale castle. I bet you would fell in love with this place.
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37 Responses
Victoria Stadnik
Hello! Eilean Donan Castle a very beautiful place! The ancient architecture is amazing! I want to be there! Thanks for sharing!
Nabiha Khan
Hi, I am sure you will love it. It’s truly captivating with its unique location. Hope you enjoy your visit 🙂
Farrah
Great guide! I went here a couple years ago and it’s easily one of the prettiest castles I’ve ever been to.
Nabiha Khan
So true. It is amazingly beautiful and the unique location adds to the charm
Hayley
Scotland is on my bucket list - it looks absolutely stunning there! Would love to visit the castle. I think Scotland must be so beautiful to see during the summer
Nabiha Khan
It pretty much rains all the time in Scotland, even during the summers. But it is very beautiful. You should definitely visit it 🙂
Pia
Cool! I´ll go to Scotland in October and I definitely will check that out! It will be the first time for me, so I´m pretty excited about that trip! Can´t wait! Thanks for sharing these tips!
Nabiha Khan
Scotland has so much to see and Eilean Donan is definitely the highlight! Glad you found it useful
Francesca
The Highlander Castle looks like an awesome place to visit. The views from it look amazing. The indoor rainforest sounds cool too.
Nabiha Khan
It is indeed very beautiful, especially the area around. Such mesmerizing vibe it has 🙂
Clazz - An Orcadian Abroad
Perfect timing! I’m planning to swing by here in a couple of weeks! Absolutely cannot wait, it’s been on my list forever and your post has made me more excited!
Nabiha Khan
Glad you liked the post. Eilean Donan is indeed worth visiting. It’s so breathtaking
Nicole
Scotland and specifically, Eilean Donan Castle have been on my bucket list forever! Your article and amazing pictures reinforce to me that I need to visit soon. Pinning this for future reference!!
Nabiha Khan
Glad you liked it 🙂 Eilean Donan is absolutely stunning and mainly its the location of the castle which makes it special.
Rachael
We are planning to visit here on our trip to Scotland next spring and this is a great guide, thank you!
Nabiha Khan
Glad you found it useful. I hope you enjoy your trip 🙂
Maria
Eilean Castle has always been a place I’ve wanted to see. Thank you for the spectacular tour through your eyes (and lense!) - your picture were beautiful. Your post has just reinforced my desire to go!
Nabiha Khan
Glad you liked the photos. Thank you so much! It is indeed such a mesmerizing place. Please do visit and let me know how you found it
Charlotte Lint
Looks like a scene from Outlander <3
Nabiha Khan
Indeed it does 🙂
Laura
Still have to visit this amazing location!!! Scotland is really magical! I hope to go again!
Nabiha Khan
Yes Scotland is so unreal and diverse
Mayi
I grew up in a land of castles (France) but the Scottish castles have a little “raw/unpolish” feel that I like. I love medieval architectures so this type of castles surrounded by untamed and rugged landscape is just perfect. Thanks for sharing.
Nabiha Khan
So true. Scottish castles have a dark history associated with them which makes them unique. They are so medieval and carry years of history with them. I love them totally
Vanessa Shields
Lovely post on Eilean Donan! I’ve been to Scotland once and it is one of my favorites yet I didn’t get a chance to go here. Would love to go back and visit the castle and learn more about its interesting history. That is also very cool that you can buy the flag after! 🙂
Nabiha Khan
You should visit. It is such a beautiful castle and the surrounding area is even prettier. Moreover, it carries such an interesting history with it. Indeed the most beautiful castle in Scotland
Josy A
Oooh fab post! I loooove visiting castles! 😀
Nabiha Khan
It’s a very beautiful one 🙂
mihaela
Scotland is getting higher and higher on my bucketlist and castles are number one interest there! So right in time! Just reading this makes me want to buy a ticket and go now!
Nabiha Khan
Scotland is indeed worth visiting, especially the castle and Isle of Skye. Make sure you visit the highlands
Megan
This castle looks amazing. I can’t wait to go to Scotland, so I can make it there : )
Nabiha Khan
It is. Scotland is definitely worth visiting
Marina
Can’t wait to visit next week!!! Thanks for the tips!
Nabiha Khan
Glad you found the article useful 🙂
Ann
Oh I love Scotland!
I have oncy been there twice so far, but I have fallen head over heals in love with the magical country. I cant wait to go back and explore some more 🙂
Great post!
Nabiha Khan
Scotland is sooo beautiful! I love it totally! Indeed very magical it is. Thank you so much, glad you liked the post and I hope you can make it to the castle someday 🙂 I am sure you would love it!
Anna
It is my dream to visit this castle one day. Saving this guide for when I do go!