Explore 3 majestic Castles in the Scottish Highlands – Warning doesn’t include The Traitors’ Castle!
The Traitors has captured the imagination of people across the country. However Ardross Castle, home to The Traitors, isn’t open to the public. Instead here are 3 castles that you can and should visit. The Scottish Highlands are a region steeped in natural beauty and historical intrigue, offering visitors a chance to explore stunning landscapes and ancient structures that speak to centuries of Scottish heritage.
Among the most iconic and picturesque landmarks of this rugged region are its castles. From fortress-like ruins to sprawling estates, the castles in the Highlands provide a glimpse into the storied past of Scotland and its powerful families. In this post, we will take a closer look at three of the most renowned castles to visit in the Scottish Highlands: Eilean Donan Castle, Dunvegan Castle, and Cawdor Castle.
Eilean Donan Castle: A Fairytale Fortress by the Loch – Caisteal Eilean Donnain in Gaelic

Beautiful Eilean Donan Castle
Just minutes’ walk from Dornie Croft, this is perhaps one of the most photographed castles in Scotland, Eilean Donan Castle sits dramatically on a small island at the confluence of three lochs — Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. This stunning 13th-century castle is located near the village of Dornie, in the western Highlands, and its picturesque setting makes it a must-visit for any traveller in the region.
Eilean Donan Castle was originally built in the early 1200s as a stronghold for the Clan Mackenzie and Clan MacRae. Over the centuries, the castle was damaged and eventually fell into disrepair, particularly after it was destroyed during the Jacobite Rising of 1719. However, it was painstakingly rebuilt in the early 20th century by Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap, and today it stands as one of the most iconic symbols of Scotland’s medieval past.
The castle’s location on a small island connected to the mainland by a stone bridge only adds to its enchanting allure. Visitors can explore the interior, which houses a collection of clan memorabilia, historical artifacts, and displays that help bring the rich history of the castle and its inhabitants to life. The views surrounding the castle are absolutely breathtaking, with the backdrop of the mountains and the shimmering lochs creating a truly magical atmosphere.
For fans of film and television, Eilean Donan Castle is also famous for its appearance in several major productions, including The Highlander (1986) and James Bond’s The World Is Not Enough (1999). Whether you’re a history buff, a film enthusiast, or simply someone looking for beautiful scenery, Eilean Donan Castle will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.
Like many families in the village, we have a personal connection to the castle and not just because our surname is MacRae! Duncan’s grandfather, who was also called Duncan, was a stonemason who worked on the rebuilding of the castle for many years in the 1920s until its completion in 1932. This is him standing on one of the walls of the castle as it was being re-built. No scaffolding, hard hats or safety harnesses then.
There’s lots more old pictures from the restoration on the Eilean Donan Castle website as well as information about opening times, what you can see and do at the castle and also about the Clan MacRae.
Dunvegan Castle: A Stronghold of the MacLeods
Located on the Isle of Skye, Dunvegan Castle is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the seat of the MacLeod clan for over 800 years. Set against the backdrop of rugged mountains and the sea, Dunvegan Castle is an architectural gem, with a rich history tied to the power and legacy of the MacLeods.
The castle itself is a fascinating blend of defensive features and elegant living spaces. Its origins date back to the 13th century, although the present structure has been expanded and modified over the centuries. Visitors can explore its beautiful gardens, including the lovely water gardens that surround the castle, offering both natural beauty and a glimpse into the lifestyle of the MacLeod clan.

Dunvegan Castle Visitscotland/Paul Tomkins
Inside, the castle houses an impressive collection of clan relics, including the famous Fairy Flag — a cherished artifact believed to have magical properties that protected the MacLeods in battle. The castle also features a number of rooms that provide a peek into the everyday life of the clan lords, including the grand Hall and the Clan MacLeod room, which showcases the history and legacy of the MacLeods.
Dunvegan Castle is also well-known for its stunning surroundings. Visitors can take boat trips around the castle to see the picturesque coastline and nearby islands, including trips to observe the local wildlife, such as seals and birds. The combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Dunvegan Castle an unforgettable stop on any tour of the Scottish Highlands.
Cawdor Castle: A Castle with a Dark and Dramatic History
Cawdor Castle, located just outside the town of Nairn, is one of the most beautiful and historically fascinating castles in the Scottish Highlands. Its origins date back to the late 14th century, and the castle is perhaps most famous for its association with Shakespeare’s Macbeth. According to legend, Cawdor Castle was the home of the Thane of Cawdor, and it is thought that the castle’s ties to the Macbeth story were the inspiration for the famous scene in which the character is informed he will be made Thane of Cawdor.

Cawdor Castle Visitscotland/Kenny Lam
The castle itself is an exquisite example of Scottish architecture, with its blend of defensive features and Renaissance-style rooms. Visitors can wander through its beautiful gardens, which are among the most impressive in the country, with formal layouts, lush flower beds, and manicured lawns surrounding the castle. The castle’s interior is equally captivating, with rooms filled with fine art, antique furniture, and historical memorabilia.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Cawdor Castle is its long and turbulent history. Over the centuries, it has been the site of battles, betrayals, and power struggles. The current Cawdor family still resides in the castle, and it remains a private home, although it is open to the public during the warmer months. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the castle’s history and the families who lived there.
For those interested in Shakespeare’s Macbeth or Scottish history in general, Cawdor Castle offers a perfect blend of legend and reality. Whether you are drawn to the historical tales that the castle holds or simply want to explore one of the most beautiful castles in the Highlands, Cawdor Castle is a must-see.