The iconic Eilean Donan Castle Scotland is located on an islet at the meet of 3 lochs.
With its scenic location, architecture and history, it is a must-see on the way to the Isle of Skye.
Below is my guide to help you plan your visit, including map, tips and the best spots to take photos of it.
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Why visit Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland?
Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland.
Not really for the fort itself, but because of its location.
It is situated at the meeting of 3 lochs with the stunning mountains of the Highlands surrounding it.
Eilean Donan Castle
Why is it famous?
- Because the place is incredibly scenic
- Because it is right along the road to the touristic Isle of Skye, so it is a very easy stop - if you are heading to the Isle of Skye, check out my article with tips and the best places to see.
- Because it has appeared in many movies (examples at the end of the article)
Photographing the Eilean Donan Castle
- 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
- In this article, you can find some of the best spots to take photos of the castle
Below is a short video giving you a snapshot of this wonderful location:
About the Name Eilean Donan
It is actually the name of the small tidal islet is it built on as the name means Island of Donan. It is named after Donnan of Eigg, a saint martyred in 617.
Its Scottish name is Eilean Donnain.
More photos after the planning tips.
PLANNING TIPS & Map - Eilean Donan Castle Scotland
How to get to Eilean Donan Castle Scotland - Map
- The Castle of Eilean Donan is very easy to find. From Road A87 to the Isle of Skye, it is clearly indicated as you can see in the photo below
- 15 min before the Skye Bridge
- Glasgow to Eilean Donan Castle = 4h15 drive
- Edinburgh to Eilean Donan Castle = 4h15 drive
- Inverness to Eilean Donan Castle = 2h drive
- Portree to Eilean Donan = 1h drive
- Below is a map to help you get oriented
Eilean Donan Castle location - Map
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Visiting Eilean Donan Castle
- It is a very touristic spot, and the carpark fills up very quickly
- Opening hours - Open every day - 10am to 6pm 25th March to 25th Oct, 10am to 4pm or 5pm the other months
- Eilean Donan entry price - £10
- Latest information on price, access hours and webcam on the Castle's official website
- Toilets and café at the visitor center
- Eilean Donan is also a stop on most small group Isle of Skye Tours - check out my article to help you choose
Access Eilean Donan Carpark and visitor center
Where to stay near Eilean Donan to see it illuminated at night
- It is often a stop on the road to the Island of Skye, and people sleep in Portree (1 extra hour drive) - See the best rated accommodations in Portree
- However, you may want to see it at night. Eilean Donan is located near the village of Dornie - See the best rated accommodations around Dornie
Eilean Donan Castle at night
Eilean Donan History & Facts
Here are a few facts to give you some context when admiring the castle:
- It was set up that way in the early 13th century as a defensive measure against the Vikings.
- It was first a stronghold for the Clan MacKenzie
- Over time the castle has changed a lot, expanding and contracting. During medieval times it was probably at its largest.
- The Castle of Eilean Donan played a role in the Jacobite risings in the 17th and 18th centuries. And it was destroyed as a result... in 1719.
- After being left in ruins for 200 years, it was bought by Lt Colonel John Macrae-Gilstrap in 1911 and spent 20 years restoring it
- It is part of the Kintail National Scenic Area
Best views to photograph Eilean Donan Castle
From the Visitor Center
As you approach the castle you discover its great location. It just stands out in the environment. I would have loved to see it with a little more water though...
Views from the other side of the bridge
You can also walk towards the right of the bridge.
Here there are fun seats made of wood.
Best view with Loch Duich
Most people continue directly to the Isle of Skye anxious to discover the Old Man of Storr or Kilt Rock. However, take at least 5 minutes to stop a little further on A87. The jetty has a bakery and a wonderful view of the Eilean Donan Castle Scotland with the magnificent mountains around Loch Duich in the background:
Castle Eilean Donan - Inside Visit
Beware that it is a very touristic spot so it is crowded.
The inside has been well furnished, especially the kitchen.
Mannequins and replica are set up to show how life was in the castle.
Highlights include:
- The Kitchen
- The Inner courtyard
- The Banqueting Hall
- The Main Keep
Below are a couple of pictures to give you an idea and help you decide if you want to visit it:
Eilean Donan inside
Eilean Donan interior - Shadowgate from Novara, ITALY, CC BY 2.0, via via Wikimedia Commons
Eilean Donan Films - Movies shot here
With such a scenic location and beautiful fort, it is no wonder that many movies have a few scenes shot there.
Some of the most famous ones include:
- Highlander in 1986 - Eilean Donan castle is the seat of Connor MacLeod's family
- The James bond movie The world in Not Enough in 1999 - the Castle is MI6 HQ called 'Castle Thane' in the movie
- In Elizabeth, the Golden Age in 2007 - it is used as the "Fotheringay Castle’ where Mary, Queen of the Scots is imprisoned
- Made of Honor in 2008 - the Castle is Colin’s family’s ‘summer house’ (the smallest of their properties)
- The New Avengers in 1976
- Loch Ness in 1996
Want to see more fascinating Castles in Scotland? Here are a few:
- The impressive Edinburgh Castle Fortress - read article
- The Inveraray Castle with green walls and beautiful gardens - read article
- The ruins of Sinclair Girnigoe Castle balancing on the cliffs - read article
- The fairy-tale looking castle of Dunrobin - read article
- The unique triangular castle of Caerlaverock - read article
- Or check out my list of the 16 best castles in Scotland
Planning a trip to Scotland? Check out my travel guide to help you plan it:
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Beautiful place. Have visited twice and hope to return sometime.