The most romantic place on earth
Recommendation added: 10/11/2006 17:46
By: velvet202 (YSUK rating +187)velvet202 has been thanked 19 times for this contribution
"Eilean Donan Castle is, if not the most famous, then the most romantic of Scotland's castles. Hovering on a hill high above the water, it can only be reached by on old bridge built of stone bricks, which has been there for many centuries now. Even before you've entered this impressive castle, the view of the sun rising against its walls will be enough to make you wish you could stay there forever.
Eilean Donan Castle was built in the early 7th century and has been in the possession of the MacRae clan for most of the time. Although it was destroyed in several attacks and fires, it was rebuilt and everything about it is well maintained and will give you the impression that you've entered a time warp and have fallen back in the medieval times.
The rooms are exactly as they used to be: tall and dark, yet there's something warm and cosy about them. It must be the air, or the stunning view from one of the high Gothic windows, that will make you fall in love with this place. Or maybe it's the massive walls and the vast fireplaces, which are so emblematic for Scottish castles and mansions, yet never tire to astound.
Upon entering the long narrow hall, you will find the first exhibition, which is a mere introduction to the history of the castle and its early days, when many of the Scottish clans fought long battles for it.
From here a door leads to the Billeting Room, which is a single barrel vault and was used as a garrison for soldiers. The second exhibition is held here and consists of a vast collection of local history relicts and artifacts such as golden cups, thick woven carpets and clothes, as well as jewelry and carved memorabilia. The Great Hall just outside the room contains fine furniture and other memorabilia such as a real lock of Bonnie Prince Charles's hair. This part of the castle is an impressive place to be if you're interested in history and Scottish clan culture as it holds the most unique and exciting collection I have ever seen.
Children will love the kitchen with its real-life imitation of a medieval banquet as well as the tartan fabric carpets in the bedrooms on the third floor, which have been featured in many a Highland saga, such as Highlander and Braveheart, as well as movies such as Loch Ness and James Bond 007: The World is Not Enough.
Everywhere in Scotland, the air smells clean and the nature looks untouched, here, however, it's magical. The loch is deep and clear with shiny blue water. In summer, the trees are in full bloom and the grass is long and deep green, rustling in the cool breeze. In winter, when it snows and everything's covered in white and the sun beams shimmer silvery, it's like being in a winter wonderland with a magical castle that invites one to step in and have a cup of hot chocolate.
Ailean Donan Castle is not just a great place to visit if you're culturally interested. It is said that lovers, who have entered this place, will never cease to love each other and will stay faithful forever. This magical forte has been the witness of many weddings and renewing vows, often referred to as the Highland Country Weddings and Highland Wedding Bells. The prices are very reasonable and it's surely an experience you and your guests will never forget.
Eilean Donan Castle is situated on the Western coast of Scotland in Loch Duich near Dornie, and can be reached easily by car or coach from Inverness, Fort William or the Isle of Skye. The Castle and its exhibitions, as well as the Visitor centre, are open every day from April 1st to October 31st, from 10am – 5.30pm. The Gift shop stays open all year round."
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