The 11 most beautiful castles in Scotland

On a trip to Celtic Lands? Don’t miss visiting Scotland’s castles, must-see historical monuments to be discovered!

Scotland is a country with incredible imagination, rich Celtic legends and a growing reputation. When we evoke Scotland, we immediately think of these famous castles that come into the horizon line. Symbols of Scottish power, castles captivate, dazzle and astonish visitors both by their grandeur and their beauty. As in fairy tales, Scotland’s castles have a mysterious and magical side!

Here is our selection of Scotland’s finest castles!

1. Dunnottar Castle

Located on the northeastern coast of Scotland, about 3 kilometres south of Stonehaven , this medieval fortress is built on a rocky grove. Dunnottar Castle, considered by many as Scotland’s most beautiful castle, is unfortunately in ruins, but keeps all its charm!

The friendly anecdote: the fans of the Outlander series will recognize some shooting places.

2. Château d’Eilean Donan

Located in the Highlands , on the edge of a loch, this castle of Scotland of the thirteenth is one of the most emblematic of the country. This sumptuous castle does not lack charm: it is connected to the mainland by a small stone bridge very charming (ideal for a souvenir photo).

Inside, you will be subjugated by the charm of this fortress. Indeed, the exploration of the rooms and rooms where furniture of time, objects and weapons are exposed, rebounds in the past.

3. Edinburgh Castle

Visit Edinburgh without seeing his castle would be a huge mistake! Indeed, it is one of the most famous Scottish castles in the country because it represents the seat of Scottish power, particularly occupied by Marie Stuart of Scotland .

With more than a million visitors a year, this imposing castle — located on Castle Hill Hill — offers stunning views of the entire city of Edinburgh.

4. Château de Culzean

Located on the edge of a cliff on the coast of Ayrshire , this castle is a gift of United States to Scotland to thank them for their support during the Second World War.

Well preserved and surrounded by gardens, this castle decorated with turrets and creneaux, located just above the sea, is a jewel of Scotland.

The little anecdote: If you pay attention to it, you will notice that the Château de Culzean appears at the back of the 5£ ticket issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland .

5. Castle of Ballindalloch

Nickname the Pearl of the North , it is located in the heart of Highland . Unlike other Scottish castles, it is one of the few castles in the country that is private! A member of the Macpherson-Grant family, he is not open as summer .

6. Fraser Castle

Castle Fraser is the largest castle in Scotland! It perfectly illustrates the defensive constructions of this period (1560-1636).

His interior as his exterior deserves a detour! Indeed, the visit of the interior takes you back to the different periods of Scotland’s history, especially thanks to the portraits in each room. The exterior is simply splendid! Here are the 2 main hiking routes that make you discover the huge estate of the castle:

• Miss Bristow (2 km): It is an immersive path in the forest in which you will discover the remains of the castle.
• Alton Brae (2.5 km): This discovery path leads you to a pond.

7. Castle of Stirling

The Château de Stirling is emblematic of the history of Scotland and the struggle for its independence from the English royalty.

During the visit of the castle, you will not be bored! Here is a program of the must-have to do:

• The large banquet room
• The Royal Palace
• The Royal Chapel
• Big kitchens
• Esplanade
• The gardens of Queen Anne
• The vaults of the Palace

The right plan: this castle is easy to access from Edinburgh or Glasgow .

8. Château d’Urquhart

This is one of Scotland’s most visited castles! Indeed, the Castle of Urquhart, because of its geographical location (over the Loch Ness), is associated with the legend of the monster of the Loch Ness.

Today in ruins, the Château d’Urquhart remains a must in Scotland’s castles and especially a magnificent view!

9. Château de Glamis

Glamis Castle is one of Scotland’s largest castles, but also one of the most interesting historically speaking castles. Demeure d’enfance de la Mother , it is also known for having been the decoration of the room Macbeth Shakespeare.

10. Château d’Inveraray

Located in the west of Scotland on the banks of the Loch Fyne, this castle has a façade and a truly beautiful interior! Many let themselves be tempted by his tea room that gives a glimpse of royal life.

The friendly anecdote: fans of the series Downton Abbey will recognize the scenery of episode 9 of season 3.

11. Castle of Crathes

Inside the wooded lands of the Aberdeenshire is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland: the castle of Crathes. Dating from the 16th century, it is given to the Burnett family by the king Robert I of Scotland 1323. Its beautiful garden, portrait collection and ceiling paintings will surprise you during the visit.

The terrifying anecdote: one of the rooms of this castle is said haunted which makes its visit particularly interesting (or not).