Best Castles in Scotland

Discover the best castles in Scotland and live a thousand adventures during your route. Information and tips to visit the most beautiful fortresses. No matter which itinerary you follow, sooner or later you will come across the ruins of a castle. It is said that in his day there were more than 3,000 castles in Scotland. Unfortunately many no longer exist, but we can still enjoy a lot. It is almost impossible to know them all, so in this post, we will tell you the 10 best castles in Scotland. On the Best Cultural Destinations guide, you will find the location of the Best Castles in Scotland so that you don't miss a single one on your route through the country. 1. Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic castles Edinburgh must be featured on any route through Scotland. There are no large cities in the country, but this is the most beautiful and by far. Since the 12th century, it has watched over the city! Although in 1745 it stopped exercising military functions and became one more tourist attraction. It is built on a huge rock of volcanic origin. Apart from being beautiful on the outside, its interior is also very worthwhile. Inside are the crown jewels or the stone on which kings were crowned. You will also see the prisons, cannons, and the National War Museum. 2. Eilean Donan, one of the most photographed Located at the gates of the spectacular Isle of Skye, this 13th-century castle is the most famous in Scotland. The setting is just beautiful. It is located on a small island in Lake Dutch. The views are spectacular! And despite being very photogenic, part of his fame comes from appearing in the movie Braveheart, starring Mel Gibson. However, we believe that the best thing is not the interior of the castle, but its surroundings. From the same parking lot, you will have great views. 3. Dunnottar Castle and its views of the sea, one of the best castles in Scotland This is one of our favorites. It is around 20 minutes' drive from Aberdeen, Scotland's third-largest city. The ruins of this medieval castle date from the 14th and 15th centuries. However, the most beautiful thing is its location. It is built on a cape with spectacular sea views. Due to its good strategic position with a wide view of the North Sea, it was one of the most important castles in Scotland. From there the maritime transport routes could be controlled very well. 4. Glamis Castle, the protagonist in Macbeth Glamis Castle was built in the 15th century, although another one already existed on the site since the 11th century. He has always been closely linked to the British royal family. It was the maiden residence of Queen Elizabeth, mother of the famous Elizabeth II. One of the most famous parts is Duncan's Hall. It is the location where Macbeth is believed to have assassinated King Duncan in Shakespeare's dramatic tragedy, Macbeth. 5. Kilchurn, one of the best castles in Scotland Of all the castles in Scotland, this is hands down our favorite. And not because of its ruins, but because of the environment that surrounds it. It looks like something out of a story! It is located at one end of Loch Awe surrounded by mountains. But what we liked the most was its tranquility. No one! Well yes, a few ducks. If the rain and cold allow it, sit on one of the stones in its viewpoint, and enjoy the peace of the place. The castle was built in the 15th century by Sir Colin Campbell, First Lord of Glenorchy. 6. Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most accessible (and enchanted) castles You cannot leave Scotland without visiting Stirling and its castle. Stirling was the ancient capital of Scotland and the castle is its main attraction. It is quite similar to Edinburgh, which is also built on an ancient volcanic peak. Since then many people say they have seen his spirit in the garden. There is even a photograph around! Whether or not it is true, it is one of the best castles in Scotland. Especially for those of you who like these stories. 7. Craigievar Castle and its pink facade Just over 45 minutes' drive from Aberdeen you will find one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland. It was c built in 1576 and is known for its pink facade. It looks like something out of a fairy tale! Many wedding photo sessions are organized and we are not surprised. It is a perfect example of Scottish stately architecture. Its elegant pink tower is beautiful and enchants children and adults. 8. Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, one of the most visited castles in Scotland The best known of Loch Ness is Nessie, the monster that lives in the lake. However, even though photos of the monster did appear, scientists say there is no evidence to prove its existence. But what does exist and deserves a visit is the spectacular Urquhart Castle. Its origins date back to the 13th century. The only pity is that it is one of the most visited castles in Scotland and it is difficult to be calm. If before we have highlighted that some are quiet because they are far from the main tourist routes, this being in Loch Ness enters almost all of them. It is the third most visited monument in Scotland. 9. Balmoral Castle, the summer residence of Elizabeth II This castle is one of the favorites of the British Royal Family. Queen Victoria labeled it "Highland paradise" and bought it to use as a royal residence. Although the current kings now live at Buckingham Palace in London, they still use the castle as a summer residence. When no one is inside, you can visit it and stroll through its beautiful gardens. 10. Inveraray Castle, a must-see on the Scottish west coast And to finish this list with the best castles in Scotland we could not forget to mention the one in Inveraray. This marvel of neo-Gothic architecture sits at one end of Loch Fyne, the longest in Scotland. Inveraray Castle has been the seat of the Dukes of Argyll since its construction in the 18th century. Unfortunately, a fire devastated much of the castle in 1975. However, thanks to collections from all over the world it was successfully restored. So don't miss the opportunity to learn about its history and stroll through its beautiful gardens.