20. Eilean Donan Castle
We end with the castle often voted the most photogenic in the UK: Eilean Donan.
The castle is a distinctive Scottish fortress situated at the meeting point of three sea lochs on the west coast of Scotland, near the Isle of Skye. The original structure dates from the 13th century and was likely founded to defend the shores and control the waterways.
Over time, it became associated with the nearby clans, such as the MacRaes and the Mackenzies, who used it as a stronghold.
In 1719 the castle was largely destroyed after a government-naval assault during a Jacobite revolt, leaving it in ruins for nearly two centuries. Then, in the early 20th century, a major restoration-project led by Lt. Col. John MacRae-Gilstrap carefully reconstructed the castle between 1912 and 1932, including the construction of a dramatic stone bridge to the mainland.
Today the castle is privately managed as a heritage site and serves as one of Scotland’s most-photographed landmarks.
It’s been used as the location for several movies, notably the 1980s film Highlander.
Visitors to Eilean Donan Castle can explore its elegant restored interiors, walk around its medieval ramparts and absorb the spectacular Highland scenery.
The location – perched on a tidal island with views across the lochs and the mountains beyond – gives the site a timeless and dramatic quality, combining military architecture with natural beauty.
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