Escorted Rail Tours to Eilean Donan Castle

A defence against Vikings at Loch Duich

Eilean Donan is a tiny island in Loch Duich, joined to the mainland by a small, elegant bridge. The island was part of the Macrae Clan's territory and in the 13th century they built Eilean Donan Castle, which occupies almost all of the land space. It was initially designed to defend the clan's land from invading Vikings, who had previously seen the site - at the meeting point of three sea lochs - as a weak spot. Eventually the castle saw more battles between the warring Scottish clans.

A Scottish symbol
In 1719, Spanish troops captured Eilean Donan Castle and razed it to the ground. For years it stood in ruins, but in the early 20th century the castle was lovingly restored using the original floor plans. The photogenic castle, further enhanced by its picturesque surroundings, has since become a popular tourist icon of Scotland. Its beauty has also been appreciated by countless film-makers, with a number of productions making use of the magnificent location. Among the famous films shot at Eilean Donan Castle are the James Bond film 'The World is Not Enough' and 'Highlander'.