The Sphinx Not far from the end of the main road at Kyle of Loch Alsh in the Western Highlands where the ferry crosses to the Isle of Skye, spectacular views of Eilean Donan Castle take your breath away. Though this medieval monument is one of hundreds of castles in the Scottish Highlands, it is a true Scottish treasure - and also the most photographed. In preparing the floodlighting scheme for Eilean Donan Castle and the stone arched causeway leading to it, the lighting designers were faced with the task of floodlighting a magnificent monument without spoiling its daylight appearance. The castle's unique, dream-like quality must be maintained at night.
Lighting now adds to the colours of the natural weathered appearance of the stonework.
The most innovative feature of this lighting project uses local stone to create structures, some in the form of Cairns, to blend in with rocky outcrops around the castle. This solution also keeps glare to an absolute minimum. The results of the Highland Regional Council's decision to floodlight the castle are formidable. Philips' lighting scheme and the workers of the Highland Region contributed to maintaining the reign of this unique national treasure. All rights reserved.