Top 5 Castles around Applecross

Beyond the castle ruins, you can delve into local heritage at the Applecross Heritage Centre, which offers insights into the region's past, including early settlers and Celtic crosses. While not a castle open to the public, Applecross House, built in 1675, is a significant historical building, and its restored 19th-century walled garden hosts a café and restaurant.

Yes, several castle ruins provide stunning vistas. Caisteal Maol Castle Ruins, located near Kyleakin, offers magnificent views of the Skye Bridge and the surrounding area. Similarly, Strome Castle Ruins, perched on a rocky outcrop at the end of Loch Carron, provides perfect views towards the Isle of Skye.

The castles in the area have rich histories. Caisteal Maol, a 15th-century tower castle, guarded the straits between Skye and the mainland and was owned by the MacKinnon clans. Strome Castle Ruins, built in the 14th century, changed hands many times before being destroyed in the 1600s. Brochel Castle Ruins, on the Isle of Raasay, was built in the late 15th or early 16th century by Raasay's first Macleod chief as a strategic stronghold to control shipping.

Yes, you can freely climb the ruins of Caisteal Maol Castle Ruins. Visitors describe the area as almost mystical, with a 'jungle feel' and old fishing boats, making it a worthwhile visit for its historical atmosphere and scenic outlook.

Yes, Duncraig Castle, a 19th-century Scottish baronial style building, is under private ownership and closed to the public. However, it has a notable history, including use as a Naval hospital during WWII. While not a castle, Applecross House is also a significant historical building in the area, though not accessible to visitors.

Yes, you can combine castle visits with walks. For example, Duncraig Castle is easily accessible from Plockton via a romantic hiking trail. Many of the castle ruins, like Caisteal Maol, require a short walk to reach, offering scenic routes. You can find various hiking options in the area by exploring the Hiking around Applecross guide.

The castles are often situated amidst dramatic natural beauty. Caisteal Maol Castle Ruins offers panoramic views of the Skye Bridge and surrounding inlets. Strome Castle Ruins is perched on a rocky outcrop at the end of Loch Carron, providing perfect views towards the Isle of Skye. Brochel Castle Ruins is built on a volcanic plug, offering unique geological context.

The best time to visit the castles around Applecross is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. The weather is often milder and more stable for exploring ruins and hiking, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful. Summer (June-August) is also popular, but can be busier. Winter access might be limited due to weather conditions and shorter daylight hours.

Many of the castle ruins, such as Caisteal Maol and Strome Castle Ruins, are open-air sites that can be explored by families. The short walks to these ruins can be an adventure for children. For a broader range of family-friendly activities, consider exploring the Easy hikes around Applecross guide, which includes routes suitable for families.

The Applecross area offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various running trails, such as the 'Achinraid to Loch Carron loop' or the 'Applecross Inn – Applecross Inn and Waterfront loop'. For hiking, options range from easy walks like the 'Coral Beach, Polnicol – Camusdarach Beach loop' to more challenging routes like the 'Loch Kishorn & Sgùrr a' Chaorachain loop'. Explore these and more in the Running Trails around Applecross and Hiking around Applecross guides.

Visitors particularly enjoy the magnificent views offered by the castle ruins, such as the panoramic outlook from Caisteal Maol. The historical atmosphere, the ability to freely explore the ruins, and the dramatic, almost mystical settings are frequently highlighted. The remote and rugged landscapes surrounding these sites also contribute to a memorable experience.

While not entirely hidden, Brochel Castle Ruins on the Isle of Raasay is a fascinating site built on a volcanic plug, offering a glimpse into strategic strongholds of the past. Its location requires a ferry trip from Skye, making it a slightly less frequented but rewarding visit for those seeking a deeper historical dive.