Urquhart Castle - At Loch Ness - Scotland | Urquhart Castle,… | Flickr Henk Meijer Photography By: Henk Meijer Photography Urquhart Castle - At Loch Ness - Scotland Urquhart Castle, a dramatic attraction which overlooks the water of Loch Ness, is surrounded by some of Scotland's most stunning Highland scenery. Once one of Scotland's largest castles, Urquhart has a fascinating history. The castle's history is told in an exhibition and audio-visual display in the superb visitor centre, where medieval artefacts discovered on site are also on show. Visitors to the castle can see the five-storey Grant Tower, which once provided accommodation for the lords and their families. The tower gives magnificent views of Loch Ness. There are also remains of kitchens, the gatehouse, cellars and other buildings which provided for the lord's comforts and protection. Urquhart Castle has a long and bloody history stretching back to the 13th centruy when the area was granted to the powerful Durward family. Following Edward I's invasion, it fell into English hands and was then reclaimed and lost again.

The castle figured in the Scottish struggle for independence and came under the control of Robert the Bruce after he became King of Scots. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle and glen were frequently raided from the west by the ambitious Macdonald Lords of the Isles. { Source } Of course i was aiming for the famous monster, but that took so long that a blue hour shot from Urquhart Castle was a good second option ;-) Normally we always see the same shots from Urquhart Castle, from above, from the road. There is hardly any other space for making pictures or you have to move far away along the lake, as i did here with a long lens. But even there are hardly any viewpoints, so i parked the car on an illegal spot and went down to the shore for 90 min and waiting for best light. Enjoy... 10 must see castles in Scotland – HeritageDaily – Heritage & Archaeology News Send email Mail Scotland is the home to a vast array of castles dating from as early as the 11th century. Over the nine hundred years that castles have been built over the country they have taken many forms and styles creating a large diversity over the country.

Scottish castles evoke strong defensive structures and were used in the protection of the proud country. Many are situated on cliff tops, overlooking beautiful locks creating the most beautiful scenery. 1 Eilean Donan Eilean Donan, which means ‘Island of Donnan’, is a small tidal island located in the western Highlands of Scotland. Eilean Donan: WikiPedia The castle was first founded in the 13the century and in 1719 the castle was partially destroyed and fell into ruin. However, after being fully restored the castle is now joined to the mainland by a bridge build in the 20th century. 2 Glamis Castle Considered one of the most beautiful castles Scotland has to offer, the castle contains towers at the front with modern parapets, along with a small chapel. The castle is situated in Angus, Scotland and the majority of the buildings date back to the 17th century. Glamis Castle:Flickr Glamis Castle is a stunning castle that boasts royal connections, as it was the childhood home of The Queen Mother and the birthplace of Princess Margaret.

3 Culzean Castle Culzean Castle is a clifftop castle that is the former home of Clan Kennedy but is now owned by the National Trust. The castle is situated on the Ayrshire coast of Scotland. Culzean Castle: WikiPedia The castle was constructed in stages during the late 18th century and is rumored to be the home of seven ghosts. Incorporated in the castle is a large drum tower. 4 Edinburgh Castle The castle dominates the Edinburgh skyline as it resides atop a formant volcano called Castle Rock. Edinburgh Castle: WikiPedia This ancient castle has been in occupation since the Iron Age and has been considered a royal residency from the 12th century to the 17th century where it was then used as a military barracks. It is now one of Scotland’s most visited tourist attractions with a colourful history and domineering structure. 5 Stirling Castle This defensive castle is surrounded by three steep cliffs and was used to guard the River Forth in the late 1900s.

Stirling Castle: WikiPedia Containing a mixed history the castle has some buildings that date as far back as the 14th century but the majority of the castle consists of buildings constructed in the 15th and 16th centuries. Stirling Castle has been the site in which several Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned such as Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle is also famous for being the location Robert Burns chose to write a large amount of his poetry. 6 Inveraray Castle Inveraray Castle is situated on the shore of Loche Fyne in western Scotland. The castle dates to the 18th century and is an example of neo-Gothic architecture. Inveraray Castle: WikiPedia The castle took 43 years to be constructed and then fell victim to a fire in 1877, thankfully the fire did not destroy the entire building. 7 Balmoral Castle Balmoral Castle is possibly the most famous castle Scotland has to offer, being the preferred holiday residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Balmoral Castle: WikiPedia Located in Aberdeenshire the castle dates back to the 14th century where is began as a hunting lodge.

The castle is now home to a variety of landscapes and the grounds and some rooms are open to the public. 8 Urquhart Castle Urquhart Castle resides along the famous Loch Ness and has extensive links to the Wars of Scottish Independence. Urquhart Castle : WikiPedia As a functioning castle Urquhart Castle was considered to be one of Scotland’s largest but unfortunately only a small fragment now remains surrounded by stunning views of the mysterious Lock Ness. 9 Duart Castle Duart Castle sits on the Isle of Mull, off the coast of West Scotland and dates back to the 13th century. Duart Castle: Flickr The ruined castle overlooks the Sound of Mull and has been used as a film location multiple times for productions such as Entrapment. The castle is said to be the ancestral home of the Maclean family who have been working hard to restore the castle for the last 20 years. 10 Dunnottar Castle Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress that can be found in the north-east of the country, approximately two miles from Stonehaven. It is a largely ruined castle but the buildings that remain date back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

The castle boasts a beautiful location, facing out onto the North Sea surrounded by cliffs with a 50 meter drop. Dunnottar Castle: WikiPedia Dunnottar Castle is one of Scotland’s most famous due to its decorated history, involving famous historical figures including Charles II and Mary, Queen of Scots. If this incredible selection has sparked your interest you can check out a full list of Scottish Castles on our partner site Historvius . Header Image Source: WikiPedia Loch Ness Water Loch Ness Water Bottled. Genuine, drinkable, Loch Ness bottled water. Loch Ness Water is like no other bottled product. It stands proudly alone from the many other types of bottled water available due to the uniqueness of where the water is sourced. Extracted straight from the body of the world famous Loch Ness itself, our water is then prepared and bottled right here in the Scottish Highlands. Loch Ness Water has utilised the very jewel of the Highlands and bottled the very water that is associated with myth and legend. Each bottle of Loch Ness Water encapsulates a tiny fraction of that mystery – and is now available for you to own and drink.

But for now, we’ll leave you to ponder whether ‘Nessie’ has swam through your very own bottle of Loch Ness Water... Stockists Kingsmills Hotel and Whisky bar Glenmoriston Hotel and Whisky Bar Loch Ness Country House Hotel Tomatin Distillery visitor centre The Lovat Loch Ness hotel Loch Ness Water shop info@ness.scot & 07713 843232 History of Loch Ness This water is sourced directly from the world famous body of water Loch Ness then prepared and bottled in the Scottish Highlands. Inverness, the capital city of the Highlands stands at the mouth of the River Ness which leads out of Loch Ness. Home to the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as ‘Nessie’, it remains as prevalent today as it has since the story of the very first sighting in 565 AD by St Columba. The Clan Grant of Glen Urquhart and Glen Moriston are associated with the Castle Urquhart which overlooks Loch Ness at the very spot where the Monster is often claimed to have been sighted. Loch Ness (Scottish Gaelic; Loch Nis) is a deep, freshwater loch and is the largest by water volume in Scotland.

Created from the last Ice Age around 10,000 years ago, It sits on the Great Glen Fault, which runs from Inverness in the north to Fort William in the south. You can own a little piece of Loch Ness and ponder on whether Nessie has swam through your very own bottle of Loch Ness Water. Loch Ness Water Ltd, Head Office: Beinn Bhurie, Hillpark Brae, Munlochy, Ross-Shire IV8 8PL. Bottling Plant: The Old Bakery, Avoch, Ross-Shire IV9 8PU. Company registered in Scotland No: SC503969 Contact info@ness.scot & 07713 843232 Urquhart Castle : Tour Scotlands Castles, Countryside and Culture : TravelChannel.com Tour Scotland's Castles, Countryside and Culture See ancient castles, rolling landscapes and cultural mainstays that make Scotland what it is today. Tags Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle Perched on an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is an instantly recognizable fortress and a powerful national symbol.

960 1280 Perched on an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is an instantly recognizable fortress and a powerful national symbol. Chris Hepburn/Getty Images Kilt Rock and the Mealt Waterfall Kilt Rock and the Mealt Waterfall The observation point for views of Kilt Rock – located between the towns of Portree and Staffin on the Isle of Skye – resemble the pleats of a kilt. The Mealt Waterfall falls nearly 180 feet into the rocky coast below. 960 1280 The observation point for views of Kilt Rock – located between the towns of Portree and Staffin on the Isle of Skye – resemble the pleats of a kilt. The Mealt Waterfall falls nearly 180 feet into the rocky coast below. Arthur Hsu Eilean Donan Castle Eilean Donan Castle In the western Highlands, Eilean Donan sits at the meeting point of 3 lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. Tourists can tour nearly every corner of the castle, which was rebuilt in the 20th century.

960 1280 In the western Highlands, Eilean Donan sits at the meeting point of 3 lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. Tourists can tour nearly every corner of the castle, which was rebuilt in the 20th century. Arthur Hsu Lock Portree Lock Portree Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye. Take a walk around Loch Portree and stop by a pub for a dram of whisky or a pint of ale. 960 1280 Portree is the largest town on the Isle of Skye. Take a walk around Loch Portree and stop by a pub for a dram of whisky or a pint of ale. Arthur Hsu University of Glasgow Cloisters University of Glasgow Cloisters Pass through the University of Glasgow Cloisters beneath Bute Hall, the main building. And make sure you take a moment to appreciate the neo-gothic architecture seen in the archways and pillars. 960 1280 Pass through the University of Glasgow Cloisters beneath Bute Hall, the main building. And make sure you take a moment to appreciate the neo-gothic architecture seen in the archways and pillars.

Arthur Hsu Urquhart Castle Urquhart Castle Urquhart Castle in the Highlands of Scotland may be in ruins, but the location couldn't be more beautiful overlooking Loch Ness. 960 1280 Urquhart Castle in the Highlands of Scotland may be in ruins, but the location couldn't be more beautiful overlooking Loch Ness. Thinkstock Culzean Castle Culzean Castle Renovated in the 18th-century, Culzean Castle is not only one of Scotland’s most beloved castles, but it also has an expansive estate, with a beautifully landscaped garden that runs right up to the Firth of Clyde coastline. 960 1280 Renovated in the 18th-century, Culzean Castle is not only one of Scotland’s most beloved castles, but it also has an expansive estate, with a beautifully landscaped garden that runs right up to the Firth of Clyde coastline. Thinkstock Scottish Traffic Jam Scottish Traffic Jam The perfect way to see the Scottish countryside? Rent a car for a scenic drive, but beware, this may happen to you. 960 1280 The perfect way to see the Scottish countryside?

Rent a car for a scenic drive, but beware, this may happen to you. Olivier Renck / Aurora / Getty Images Johnstons of Elgin Johnstons of Elgin Take a free, guided tour of 200-year-old Scottish mill Johnstons of Elgin to see cashmere transformed from fiber into beautiful scarves and other garments. 960 1280 Take a free, guided tour of 200-year-old Scottish mill Johnstons of Elgin to see cashmere transformed from fiber into beautiful scarves and other garments. Johnsons of Elgin Melrose Abbey Melrose Abbey Melrose Abbey was founded in 1136 but largely destroyed 2 centuries later. The expansive ruin and lavish masonry are unsurpassed in Scotland. 960 1280 Melrose Abbey was founded in 1136 but largely destroyed 2 centuries later. The expansive ruin and lavish masonry are unsurpassed in Scotland. Thinkstock Loch Ness Loch Ness See it? The Loch Ness Monster? No? Well, hoards of tourists still visit in hopes of getting a glimpse of the mystery and take in the spectacular scenery. 960 1280 See it?

The Loch Ness Monster? No? Well, hoards of tourists still visit in hopes of getting a glimpse of the mystery and take in the spectacular scenery. Thinkstock National Museum of Scotland National Museum of Scotland You'll find everything you've ever wanted to see from Scotland at the National Museum in Edinburgh, from dinosaur bones to a milk bottle once carried by Sean Connery. 960 1280 You'll find everything you've ever wanted to see from Scotland at the National Museum in Edinburgh, from dinosaur bones to a milk bottle once carried by Sean Connery. Getty St. Andrews Links St. Andrews Links Perhaps the oldest standing golf course in the world, St. Andrews has become a bucket-list trip for avid golfers around the world. Originally built in 1457 with 22 holes – changed to 18 holes in 1764-- this famous course is a huge source of pride for the country Scotland. 960 1280 Perhaps the oldest standing golf course in the world, St. Andrews has become a bucket-list trip for avid golfers around the world.

Originally built in 1457 with 22 holes – changed to 18 holes in 1764-- this famous course is a huge source of pride for the country Scotland. Thinkstock Skara Brae Skara Brae Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the prehistoric village of Skara Brae presents a remarkable picture of life around 5,000 years ago, before Stonehenge was built. 960 1280 Uncovered by a storm in 1850, the prehistoric village of Skara Brae presents a remarkable picture of life around 5,000 years ago, before Stonehenge was built. Getty Stirling Castle Stirling Castle This forbidding structure, surrounded on 3 sides by steep cliff dropping down 250-ft, was chosen for its strong defensive purposes. It was built in the 12th century, but evolved into its current form during the 15th and 16th centuries; when it served as the fortress for the Scots.

960 1280 This forbidding structure, surrounded on 3 sides by steep cliff dropping down 250-ft, was chosen for its strong defensive purposes. It was built in the 12th century, but evolved into its current form during the 15th and 16th centuries; when it served as the fortress for the Scots. Alex Janssen, flickr Cawdor Castle Cawdor Castle Explore Cawdor Castle's lush gardens, and you'll see it's a still-lived-in structure, as opposed to decaying ruins. 960 1280 Explore Cawdor Castle's lush gardens, and you'll see it's a still-lived-in structure, as opposed to decaying ruins. Vicky Brock, flickr Inverlochy Castle Inverlochy Castle Spend a night at picturesque Inverlochy Castle, one of the most luxurious hotels in Europe. It has 17 private rooms with views of the grounds and surrounding Grampian Mountains. 960 1280 Spend a night at picturesque Inverlochy Castle, one of the most luxurious hotels in Europe.

It has 17 private rooms with views of the grounds and surrounding Grampian Mountains. Inverlochy Castle Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum A stunning red-sandstone structure, part cathedral and part castle, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum houses one of the greatest civic collections in Europe, with works by Rembrandt and Monet, among others. 960 1280 A stunning red-sandstone structure, part cathedral and part castle, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum houses one of the greatest civic collections in Europe, with works by Rembrandt and Monet, among others. StaraBlazkova, Wikimedia Commons Atholl Highlanders Atholl Highlanders Members of the Atholl Highlanders -- Europe’s only legal private army -- participate in the Open Tug O' War at the Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland. The earliest recorded highland games were held during the reign of Malcolm Canmore, King of Scotland nearly 1,000 years ago.

960 1280 Members of the Atholl Highlanders -- Europe’s only legal private army -- participate in the Open Tug O' War at the Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle in Perthshire, Scotland. The earliest recorded highland games were held during the reign of Malcolm Canmore, King of Scotland nearly 1,000 years ago. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Ballater Highland Games in Aberdeenshire, Scotland Ballater Highland Games in Aberdeenshire, Scotland A sword-dancing event takes place at the Ballater Highland Games in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, as a piper provides musical accompaniment. The original highland games decreed that young men should gather to hold tests of strength so the best of them could be enrolled in royal service. 960 1280 A sword-dancing event takes place at the Ballater Highland Games in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, as a piper provides musical accompaniment. The original highland games decreed that young men should gather to hold tests of strength so the best of them could be enrolled in royal service.

Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The Lonach Highlanders The Lonach Highlanders The Lonach Highlanders, a society formed in 1823 to preserve Highland dress and Gaelic language, march once a year to open the Lonach Highland Gathering in the Strathdon area of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. 960 1280 The Lonach Highlanders, a society formed in 1823 to preserve Highland dress and Gaelic language, march once a year to open the Lonach Highland Gathering in the Strathdon area of Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The weight-throw event The weight-throw event In the weight-throw event, a weight ranging from 14 to 56 pounds (depending on the event) is thrown by either its handle or a chain. It can be thrown using any technique, although a spinning technique is the most popular. Here, a man participates in the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally in Newtonmore, Scotland.

960 1280 In the weight-throw event, a weight ranging from 14 to 56 pounds (depending on the event) is thrown by either its handle or a chain. It can be thrown using any technique, although a spinning technique is the most popular. Here, a man participates in the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally in Newtonmore, Scotland. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The weight-over-bar event The weight-over-bar event In the weight-over-bar event, like the one pictured here at the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally, the athletes toss a 56-pound weight over a horizontal bar. The catch is they can only use one hand. They are allowed 3 attempts at different heights, and the highest successful toss with fewest misses wins. 960 1280 In the weight-over-bar event, like the one pictured here at the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally, the athletes toss a 56-pound weight over a horizontal bar. The catch is they can only use one hand. They are allowed 3 attempts at different heights, and the highest successful toss with fewest misses wins.

Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally A pipe band competes at the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally. The Newtonmore gathering was first held in October 1945 as a welcome home to the village’s returning servicemen after 6 years of war. Their first games were held in a small arena beside the 17th hole of the Newtonmore golf course. 960 1280 A pipe band competes at the Newtonmore Highland Games and Clan Macpherson Annual Rally. The Newtonmore gathering was first held in October 1945 as a welcome home to the village’s returning servicemen after 6 years of war. Their first games were held in a small arena beside the 17th hole of the Newtonmore golf course. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint World Highland Dancing Championship World Highland Dancing Championship The world’s biggest Highland Games are the Cowal Games held in Dunoon, Argyll, Scotland.

These games are also home to the World Highland Dancing Championship where dancers gather from the US, Canada, Australia and South Africa to compete in this form of traditional Scottish dance in its homeland. 960 1280 The world’s biggest Highland Games are the Cowal Games held in Dunoon, Argyll, Scotland. These games are also home to the World Highland Dancing Championship where dancers gather from the US, Canada, Australia and South Africa to compete in this form of traditional Scottish dance in its homeland. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle Members of the Atholl Highlanders dance during the Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle. The Atholl Gathering prides itself on having held onto many of the old Scottish traditions, and the grounds of Blair Castle make for a perfect afternoon for the spectators as well as the participants. 960 1280 Members of the Atholl Highlanders dance during the Atholl Gathering at Blair Castle. The Atholl Gathering prides itself on having held onto many of the old Scottish traditions, and the grounds of Blair Castle make for a perfect afternoon for the spectators as well as the participants.

Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The McGlashen stone The McGlashen stone The McGlashen stone tests the athletes’ strength when they have to lift it onto a whisky barrel. For centuries, a young man was considered a man when he was able to lift his clan's testing stone to waist height. 960 1280 The McGlashen stone tests the athletes’ strength when they have to lift it onto a whisky barrel. For centuries, a young man was considered a man when he was able to lift his clan's testing stone to waist height. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The caber-toss event The caber-toss event In the caber-toss event, a long, tapered pine log is held upright and hoisted by the competitor who balances it vertically. Running forward, the competitor tosses the caber so that it turns end over end. In a successful toss, the caber is as close as possible to vertical and the athlete is said to have “turned the caber.” 960 1280 In the caber-toss event, a long, tapered pine log is held upright and hoisted by the competitor who balances it vertically.

Running forward, the competitor tosses the caber so that it turns end over end. In a successful toss, the caber is as close as possible to vertical and the athlete is said to have “turned the caber.” Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint The Scottish hammer throw The Scottish hammer throw A competitor prepares his swing in the Scottish hammer throw, where a round metal ball attached to the end of a wooden shaft about 4 feet long is whirled about the competitor’s head and thrown over the shoulder. Hammer throwers sometimes even wear footwear with flat blades to dig into the turf so they don’t lose their balance mid-throw. 960 1280 A competitor prepares his swing in the Scottish hammer throw, where a round metal ball attached to the end of a wooden shaft about 4 feet long is whirled about the competitor’s head and thrown over the shoulder. Hammer throwers sometimes even wear footwear with flat blades to dig into the turf so they don’t lose their balance mid-throw.

Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Inverness Highland Games in Scotland Inverness Highland Games in Scotland Most Highland Games include piping and drumming competitions, ranging from solo piping, pictured here on the Eden Court lawn during the Inverness Highland Games in Scotland, to solo drumming, small ensemble and pipe band competitions. 960 1280 Most Highland Games include piping and drumming competitions, ranging from solo piping, pictured here on the Eden Court lawn during the Inverness Highland Games in Scotland, to solo drumming, small ensemble and pipe band competitions. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Atholl Highlanders Atholl Highlanders The pipes and drums of the Atholl Highlanders sound as they march from Blair castle to the field at the start of the Atholl Gathering held annually in Perthshire, Scotland. First employed as the personal bodyguards of the Duke of Atholl in 1839, the regiment is now purely ceremonial. 960 1280 The pipes and drums of the Atholl Highlanders sound as they march from Blair castle to the field at the start of the Atholl Gathering held annually in Perthshire, Scotland.

First employed as the personal bodyguards of the Duke of Atholl in 1839, the regiment is now purely ceremonial. Paul Tomkins / VisitScotland / Scottish Viewpoint Gallery of Modern Art Gallery of Modern Art The diminutive but fascinating GOMA is tucked neatly into a former Carnegie Library in the heart of Glasgow 's Merchant City district. Four floors offer changing exhibitions of Scottish and international works, from Andy Warhol to David Hockney to local celebrity Jim Lambie and rising Glasgow star Victoria Morton. The most popular modern art gallery in Scotland , it also has a great café, library and store. 960 1280 The diminutive but fascinating GOMA is tucked neatly into a former Carnegie Library in the heart of Glasgow 's Merchant City district. Four floors offer changing exhibitions of Scottish and international works, from Andy Warhol to David Hockney to local celebrity Jim Lambie and rising Glasgow star Victoria Morton. The most popular modern art gallery in Scotland , it also has a great café, library and store. iStock Secrets of The West End Secrets of The West End The leafy West End is home to the University of Glasgow, which opened its doors in 1451.

Divided into several different areas, top West End stops are shopping and café hub Byres Road and up-and-coming Finnieston. Just off Byres Road, and tucked behind the station for Glasgow's tiny subway system, quaint cobbled Ashton Lane is crammed with bars and restaurants. Hidden down a covered alleyway off a social stretch of Argyle Street, Finnieston's Hidden Lane is a brightly colored warren of artists' studios with a secret gem tearoom. 960 1280 The leafy West End is home to the University of Glasgow, which opened its doors in 1451. Divided into several different areas, top West End stops are shopping and café hub Byres Road and up-and-coming Finnieston. Just off Byres Road, and tucked behind the station for Glasgow's tiny subway system, quaint cobbled Ashton Lane is crammed with bars and restaurants. Hidden down a covered alleyway off a social stretch of Argyle Street, Finnieston's Hidden Lane is a brightly colored warren of artists' studios with a secret gem tearoom.

Getty Images Glasgow Cathedral Glasgow Cathedral An ancient medieval cathedral in the city center, building started on Glasgow Cathedral in 1136 and there's been a place of worship on this spot ever since. The Cathedral Precinct is also home to St. Mungo's Museum of Religious Life and Art, named after the city's patron saint, and Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, built in 1471. Nearby, the spooky, ancient Necropolis's 50,000 graves sprawl across a bleak hillside overlooking the city. 960 1280 An ancient medieval cathedral in the city center, building started on Glasgow Cathedral in 1136 and there's been a place of worship on this spot ever since. The Cathedral Precinct is also home to St. Mungo's Museum of Religious Life and Art, named after the city's patron saint, and Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, built in 1471. Nearby, the spooky, ancient Necropolis's 50,000 graves sprawl across a bleak hillside overlooking the city.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum One of Glasgow's bevy of free museums, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is the city's main museum and art gallery dates back to 1901 and is the most visited attraction in the UK outside London . Known particularly for its impressive Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists and Scottish art, Kelvingrove also boasts 8,000 other items, including armor, taxidermied lions, tigers and bears, and a Spitfire fighter plane. 960 1280 One of Glasgow's bevy of free museums, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is the city's main museum and art gallery dates back to 1901 and is the most visited attraction in the UK outside London . Known particularly for its impressive Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists and Scottish art, Kelvingrove also boasts 8,000 other items, including armor, taxidermied lions, tigers and bears, and a Spitfire fighter plane.

Take the High Road to Loch Lomond Take the High Road to Loch Lomond It's the biggest stretch of freshwater in the UK and it's just 20 minutes drive north of Glasgow, making it the city's backyard. Now part of a 720-square-mile national park, Loch Lomond is a wonderland for picnicking, waterskiing, hiking and fishing. 960 1280 It's the biggest stretch of freshwater in the UK and it's just 20 minutes drive north of Glasgow, making it the city's backyard. Now part of a 720-square-mile national park, Loch Lomond is a wonderland for picnicking, waterskiing, hiking and fishing. iStock The Riverside Museum of Transport The Riverside Museum of Transport Made up of a striking modern building with jagged, gleaming, zinc waves along its exterior and a 19th century tall ship bobbling alongside, this cutting edge museum opened in 2011. Tracing Glasgow's contributions to road, rail and seafaring, exhibits span travel from steam trains to skateboards.

960 1280 Made up of a striking modern building with jagged, gleaming, zinc waves along its exterior and a 19th century tall ship bobbling alongside, this cutting edge museum opened in 2011. Tracing Glasgow's contributions to road, rail and seafaring, exhibits span travel from steam trains to skateboards. The Second City of the British Empire The Second City of the British Empire Twice-daily tours showcase the splendor of the opulent City Chambers and provide an eye-opening peek at Glasgow's past wealth, power and position as the Second City of the British Empire. Tours take in the Beaux Arts building's soaring archways, dramatic marble staircases, mosaic-tiled vaulted ceilings and gilded cornices, which explains why the 1888 structure has been used as a film stand-in for both the Kremlin and Vatican. 960 1280 Twice-daily tours showcase the splendor of the opulent City Chambers and provide an eye-opening peek at Glasgow's past wealth, power and position as the Second City of the British Empire.

Tours take in the Beaux Arts building's soaring archways, dramatic marble staircases, mosaic-tiled vaulted ceilings and gilded cornices, which explains why the 1888 structure has been used as a film stand-in for both the Kremlin and Vatican. Glasgow School of Art Glasgow School of Art Designed by Scotland's beloved Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow School of Art is a fanciful building, full of Art Nouveau flourishes and unexpected design. Tours of the working art school take visitors behind the scenes and display both art and architecture. 960 1280 Designed by Scotland's beloved Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow School of Art is a fanciful building, full of Art Nouveau flourishes and unexpected design. Tours of the working art school take visitors behind the scenes and display both art and architecture. A River Walkway A River Walkway The name "Glasgow" is the Scottish Gaelic for "dear green place," so it should come as no surprise to find the city has so many great public parks.

The best ones -- the Victorian-era Botanic Gardens and 34-acre Kelvingrove Park -- are in the West End, linked by the wandering riverbank River Kelvin Walkway. 960 1280 The name "Glasgow" is the Scottish Gaelic for "dear green place," so it should come as no surprise to find the city has so many great public parks. The best ones -- the Victorian-era Botanic Gardens and 34-acre Kelvingrove Park -- are in the West End, linked by the wandering riverbank River Kelvin Walkway. Ed Webster, flickr The Merchant City The Merchant City For designer wears, the Merchant City and its main thoroughfare, Buchanan Street, are the top shopping destinations in Scotland. Among the best spots to stop, the stylish, covered courtyard mall Princes Square has lovely Parisian details - and a smorgasbord of places to enjoy tea and cake. 960 1280 For designer wears, the Merchant City and its main thoroughfare, Buchanan Street, are the top shopping destinations in Scotland.

Among the best spots to stop, the stylish, covered courtyard mall Princes Square has lovely Parisian details - and a smorgasbord of places to enjoy tea and cake. Getty Images The Burrell The Burrell Sprawling across a lush, grassy estate on the south side of the city, which is also home to Pollok House, White Cart River and 100 hairy Highland Cows, the modern Burrell Collection displays the artworks collected by shipping magnate Sir William Burrell. Burrell’s collection of items ranges from 5,000-year-old Egyptian jewelry to ancient Chinese pottery and 19th century French paintings. 960 1280 Sprawling across a lush, grassy estate on the south side of the city, which is also home to Pollok House, White Cart River and 100 hairy Highland Cows, the modern Burrell Collection displays the artworks collected by shipping magnate Sir William Burrell. Burrell’s collection of items ranges from 5,000-year-old Egyptian jewelry to ancient Chinese pottery and 19th century French paintings.

Burrell Collection Ancient Edinburgh Castle Ancient Edinburgh Castle The glorious Edinburgh Castle has been perched on this rocky hillside overlooking the city for over a thousand years. Queen Margaret, one of Scotland's patron saints, died here in 1093, and the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots, took up residence in the 16th century. Now a military fort, the castle houses the Stone of Destiny and Scotland's crown jewels. 960 1280 The glorious Edinburgh Castle has been perched on this rocky hillside overlooking the city for over a thousand years. Queen Margaret, one of Scotland's patron saints, died here in 1093, and the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots, took up residence in the 16th century. Now a military fort, the castle houses the Stone of Destiny and Scotland's crown jewels. Thinkstock Gallery Trio Gallery Trio Three more free-entry institutions, Scotland's national galleries, are dotted around the capital.

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is housed in a dynamic duo of buildings west of downtown; the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is tucked just off Princes Street; and the jewel in the crown, the Scottish National Gallery, with its Rembrandts, van Goghs and Monets, holds court right on Princes Street. 960 1280 Three more free-entry institutions, Scotland's national galleries, are dotted around the capital. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is housed in a dynamic duo of buildings west of downtown; the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is tucked just off Princes Street; and the jewel in the crown, the Scottish National Gallery, with its Rembrandts, van Goghs and Monets, holds court right on Princes Street. Getty Images Birds' Eye Views: Arthur's Seat Birds' Eye Views: Arthur's Seat Fantastic photo opportunities await all those who clamber up the 3-mile trail to the top of this long dormant, 822-feet-high volcano. Just a mile from Edinburgh Castle , the craggy hill still has remnants of a prehistoric fort visible on its summit. The trail starts at the foot of the Royal Mile.

960 1280 Fantastic photo opportunities await all those who clamber up the 3-mile trail to the top of this long dormant, 822-feet-high volcano. Just a mile from Edinburgh Castle , the craggy hill still has remnants of a prehistoric fort visible on its summit. The trail starts at the foot of the Royal Mile. Thinkstock Back Street Social: Rose Street Back Street Social: Rose Street Another shopping street, but one with a more social slant, Rose Street runs parallel to Princes Street for 4 busy blocks. It's a narrow lane, packed with pubs, cafes and fashion stores, jammed with shoppers by day and revelers by night. 960 1280 Another shopping street, but one with a more social slant, Rose Street runs parallel to Princes Street for 4 busy blocks. It's a narrow lane, packed with pubs, cafes and fashion stores, jammed with shoppers by day and revelers by night.

Another Capital Address for the Queen: The Palace of Holyroodhouse Another Capital Address for the Queen: The Palace of Holyroodhouse This palace was originally built by King James IV in the early 1500s and is still Queen Elizabeth II's official Scottish address today, but it's better known as having been backdrop to the soap opera-like life of the tempestuous Mary, Queen of Scots. She got married here twice and saw her second husband murdered within these walls. Today, visitors can explore the State and Historic Apartments and visit the art gallery, cafe and store. 960 1280 This palace was originally built by King James IV in the early 1500s and is still Queen Elizabeth II's official Scottish address today, but it's better known as having been backdrop to the soap opera-like life of the tempestuous Mary, Queen of Scots. She got married here twice and saw her second husband murdered within these walls. Today, visitors can explore the State and Historic Apartments and visit the art gallery, cafe and store. iStock Politically Correct: The Scottish Parliament Politically Correct: The Scottish Parliament It's not all ancient wonders around here.

The Scottish Parliament opened in 2004, a jagged, modern anchor at the foot of the ancient Royal Mile. Built after the Scottish Parliament reconvened after 300 years, it offers events and exhibitions on art, politics, science and influential Scots. 960 1280 It's not all ancient wonders around here. The Scottish Parliament opened in 2004, a jagged, modern anchor at the foot of the ancient Royal Mile. Built after the Scottish Parliament reconvened after 300 years, it offers events and exhibitions on art, politics, science and influential Scots. Getty Images All Aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia All Aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia The Queen's former floating residence bobs at the docks of Leith now that it's not off doing diplomatic duty around the world. Visitors can explore all 5 decks, see the Royal Apartments and stop for afternoon tea and cake in the Royal Deck Tea Room. 960 1280 The Queen's former floating residence bobs at the docks of Leith now that it's not off doing diplomatic duty around the world.

Visitors can explore all 5 decks, see the Royal Apartments and stop for afternoon tea and cake in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Wikimedia Commons A Royal Treat: Princes Street A Royal Treat: Princes Street A broad boulevard lined with upscale stores on its north side, Princes Street's south side is dotted with parks, monuments and museums. Its cafes make stunning spots to sit and look up at Edinburgh Castle, looming above. 960 1280 A broad boulevard lined with upscale stores on its north side, Princes Street's south side is dotted with parks, monuments and museums. Its cafes make stunning spots to sit and look up at Edinburgh Castle, looming above. iStock Playtime at the Museum of Childhood Playtime at the Museum of Childhood The Museum of Childhood has been entertaining Scottish kids in this historic 18th century building since 1957. With collections of toys, games, clothes and books that date from the 18th to 21st centuries and a puppet theatre, it's an ideal rainy day stop on the Royal Mile.

960 1280 The Museum of Childhood has been entertaining Scottish kids in this historic 18th century building since 1957. With collections of toys, games, clothes and books that date from the 18th to 21st centuries and a puppet theatre, it's an ideal rainy day stop on the Royal Mile. Getty Images The Castle Hill: The Royal Mile The Castle Hill: The Royal Mile The Royal Mile links Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, located a mile below. Steep, cobbled and flanked by tall, narrow buildings that date as far back as the early 1500s, the ancient street and myriad dark lanes that wind off it look like the set from Harry Potter . It's not a coincidence that J.K. Rowling wrote her wizard books just off this historic street. 960 1280 The Royal Mile links Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, located a mile below. Steep, cobbled and flanked by tall, narrow buildings that date as far back as the early 1500s, the ancient street and myriad dark lanes that wind off it look like the set from Harry Potter .

It's not a coincidence that J.K. Rowling wrote her wizard books just off this historic street. iStock Leith's Reborn Docklands Leith's Reborn Docklands Edinburgh's port since the year 1329, Leith lies at the point where the Water of Leith reaches the Firth of Forth and the North Sea. Once a rough and rowdy neighborhood, today Leith is awash with hip bars, chic eateries and boutique hotels. 960 1280 Edinburgh's port since the year 1329, Leith lies at the point where the Water of Leith reaches the Firth of Forth and the North Sea. Once a rough and rowdy neighborhood, today Leith is awash with hip bars, chic eateries and boutique hotels. iStock Two-for-One: The National Museums of Scotland Two-for-One: The National Museums of Scotland A real bonus for those on a budget or saving their sterling; entry to Edinburgh's main museums are free. The National War Museum is housed at Edinburgh Castle, while the newly reopened National Museum of Scotland covers it all, from wildlife to world cultures and the wonders of science.

960 1280 A real bonus for those on a budget or saving their sterling; entry to Edinburgh's main museums are free. The National War Museum is housed at Edinburgh Castle, while the newly reopened National Museum of Scotland covers it all, from wildlife to world cultures and the wonders of science. subberculture, flickr 1000+ images about Scotland - Loch Ness on Pinterest | Loch ness monster, Lakes and Inverness Forward Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands One of the strangest places on earth, equally for both its mythical monster, Nessie, and for the eerie lake hidden away in the Scottish Highlands. Ness, the particular loch itself is 755-feet deep at its greatest and 21.8 square-miles wide. Unlike most lochs, this massive water body makes you wonder what could possibly be lurking in the depths.

See More Loch Ness & Urquhart castle Build a tour LOCH NESS & URQUHART CASTLE Scotland is a country of strange myths and legends, and none has proven more enduring than that told about sightings of mysterious cash payments made by the Highlands and Islands Tourist Board to anyone able to capture on celluloid, a grainy image of semi-submerged car tyres, floating in formation on Loch Ness. Eco-tourism has experienced something of a global boom in recent decades as people flock from all over the world to see rare creatures in the wild. The Scots might have taken this a step further though in managing to persuade folk to visit a place where one doesn’t exist! (or does it?). Sadly the evidence against a Plesiosaur is becoming quite compelling, but there is still a mystery as to what it is that is frequently seen in the Loch? For years the strongest evidence rested with the so-called surgeons photograph. This became the iconic face of ‘Nessie’. The surgeon in question was Kenneth Wilson, a respected man of impeccable standing.

Sadly he was also a friend of ‘big-game hunter’ Marmaduke Wetherell, who had been engaged by a British newspaper at the height of Nessie hysteria in 1934 to hunt down the illusive monster. After five fruitless days Wetherell produced an animal track. The excitable newspaper duly made a cast and sent it off to the British museum who wasted little time in identifying ‘exhibit A’ as belonging to a Hippopotamus. Not exactly native to the Highlands of Scotland. The newspaper sensing they’d ‘been had’ set about Wetherell, who protested that all he was doing was giving them the story that they and their readers craved, regardless of facts (something that might ring an ironic bell, given that the newspaper concerned was the Daily Mail). In order to extract a revenge of sorts, Wetherell persuaded the altogether more plausible Wilson to stage the now infamous photograph using a small mock head and neck submerged on a minor floatation device. It was only from beyond the grave that Wilson owned up to his deception. Indeed, the original monster’s head and neck were recovered from their concealed place of hiding. The surgeon had left a confession to be made public upon his demise.

The myths and legends of Loch Ness have endured for centuries More recently another hoax briefly gave hope to the legend. This one was apparently endorsed by the US military, although quite how they know what a Loch Ness monster looks like is anyone’s guess. Even our good selves, who have no training in imagery intelligence noted that Castle Urquhart was neatly positioned on the edge of the frame, and that no wake or bow wave seemed to be present. In other words, this was a ‘floating’ monster. It took just 12 months this time for the culprit to come forward and produce the fibre glass monsters back. George Edwards, a local boat tour operator was the architect of this particular stunt. The surgeon’s photograph The Edwards Photo We aren’t entirely sure ourselves if the local tourist industry shouldn’t commission the building of a computer mini-submarine to patrol the Loch and surface each day for 90 secs at pre-programmed times? A sighting would still be a rare thing, even under these conditions, and to no small extent this is the biggest part of the Nessie game.

OK, there might be an issue to do with this thing surfacing into the path of a tourist boat, but that was a risk they were happy to run with a dinosaur, which would ultimately cause their craft much greater damage, and you could always build a censor into it. The Loch can still provide a good return for you provided you aren’t seduced into setting siege to it from a lay-by on the A82 with a pair binoculars, thermos flask, and supply of inadequate sandwichs. The answer is to get out on the water. There are two options. The first involves a sedate cruise on a custom built observation boat that comes equipped with all the latest sonar and even a heated saloon. The second involves the fastest boat on the Loch; the RIB. With its low draft and top speed of about 40 knots, this is the most exhilarating way to see the Loch as you skim over its dark water at speed. The fastest boat on the Loch Sites that a three hour trip visits include, Boleskine House which used to be owned by Jimmy Page (of Led Zeppelin fame) who claimed it was haunted by a severed head (there’s easy line here somewhere!).

Cory’s Cave, an extremely well-hidden cave named after a local man who became a fugitive after he shot at the Duke of Cumberland’s Redcoats during the ’45 rebellion. The site where John Cobb tried to break the world water speed record in his jet speedboat Crusader in 1952. He died during the attempt whilst travelling at a speed in excess of 200mph. Towards the northern end of the Loch is Urquhart Castle. The present ruins date from the 13th to the 16th centuries, albeit there is evidence of a wooden fort dating to the 6th century. Urquhart played a role in the Wars of Scottish Independence in the 14th century and was subsequently held as a royal castle. It was raided on several occasions by the MacDonald Earls of Ross. The castle was granted to the Clan Grant in 1509, though conflict with the MacDonalds continued. Despite a series of further raids the castle was strengthened, only to be largely abandoned by the middle of the 17th century. Urquhart was partially destroyed in 1692 to prevent its use by Jacobite forces, and subsequently decayed.

Urquhart Castle overlooks the Loch. Perhpas it lends something to the atmosphere on this stretch, as it does generate more than it’s fair share of sightings In truth, we tend to think there is something unusual in Loch Ness, even if it stops short of being prehistoric. The most recent theory that seems to have gained traction concerns over-sized sturgeon. This does seem plausible, for although this ‘big fish’ is a bottom-feeder, it is known to surface occasionally and would resemble a lot of reported sightings as its back broke the water. Neither would we completely discount formations of birds inter-acting with waves as being capable of creating an optical illusion A Loch Ness trip is easily accomplished on the Highlands itinerary for golfers and non-golfers alike. Proximity to Inverness ensures that the boat options or evening cruise should all be viable within the timeframe. Outside of the Highlands, a truncated version is only really viable from Gleneagles on a full day. Ardell Morton > Artist Paintings Scottish Castles Landscapes Wildlife Highlands Islands Landscape paintings of Scotland by Scottish landscape artist Ardell Morton. Ardell Morton is a Scottish landscape artist born in the U.S. of Scottish heritage.

A traditional oil painter, she specializes in the Highlands and the Hebrides Islands where she has traveled extensively, sketching and documenting the local landscape and wildlife. A large part of her time is also spent in historical research of Scottish clans in relation to their strongholds and medieval castle sites. Ardell`s paintings of Scottish castles include Duart Castle, Kilchurn Castle, Urquhart Castle, Eilean Donan Castle, Dunvegan Castle, Balmoral Castle, Morton Castle, Dun Sgathiach. Other subjects in Scotland for her landscape paintings are Oban Harbour, Neptune`s Staircase, Waternish, Buchaille Etive Mor, St Ronan`s Bay, St Mary`s Abbey, Isle of Iona and Balquidder, the home of Rob Roy MacGregor and also the artist Ardell Morton herself. Morton considers Balquhidder, on Loch Voil in Perthshire, her home base. From there she does most of her painting, takes walks by the loch and up into the mountains, and works in the garden.

Some of her travels include climbing the cliffs of Mingulay and Staffa just to watch the puffins nest, traversing the Uists in search of legendary pictish stones, hiking the Isle of Barra for the best view of Kisimul Castle in Castle Bay, and enduring the worst of winds to reach the high promontory of Dunnottar Castle. One of her favorite places in the majestic site of Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull, especially as viewed from the old Kirk yard with the purple mountains of the mainland reigning over the Sound. But her heart always goes back to the late night sunsets from Dunvegan Castle, on the Isle of Skye, when the seals are going in for the night and the isles of the outer Hebrides sparkle like pastel gems in the fading light. For more information about original paintings, or about the artist, Ardell Morton, please contact us either by writing or sending an email message. Recent paintings include the following Duart Castle Isle of Mull Duart Castle is one of the classic residences of a highland chief and has been in the Maclean family since at least the 14th century.

Duart Castle is sited on a high craig jutting out into the Sound of Mull. Dubh Ard in Gaelic means &quot;Black Point&quot; and this majestic castle was surely a strategic stronghold during the times of the Norse and Viking raiders. Kilchurn Castle Loch Awe Framed by Noble Ben Cruchan, on its rocky promontory midst Loch Awe, Kilchurn Castle reigns serenely on its wee island that once was the MacGregors&#039;. Cherished throughout history by artists and poets for its picturesque location, Kilchurn was also an important strategic stronghold of the Campbells and is noted for its five-story tower house and dominant circular towers. Urquhart Castle Loch Ness Urquhart Castle is one of the most interesting castles in Scotland&#039;s history and still today the mystery of her past lingers amongst the ruins. Urquhart stands on a high sandstone promontory projecting into Lock Ness and was once 50 feet above the water level before the Caledonian canal was built in 1803.

It is possible to find quantities of vitrified stone left from the Iron age, believed to be a dry stone fort interlaced with timbers. The first castle was built in the 13th century which consisted of an enclosure with a curtain wall and gatehouse, including a hall and chapel. Urquhart Castle has a long and exciting history of sieges and captures, from the English crown to the Lord of the Isles. Just some of the illustrious names in possession of the castle at some time include: Mar, Huntley, Gordon, Grant, Comyn, Lauder, Forbes, and Alan Durward, Lord Urquhart. Neptune&#039;s Staircase Lochaber Eight lochs of the Calendonian Canal at Banavie are named &quot;Neptune&#039;s Staircase.&quot; The canal was the greatest = engineering endeavor of its itme. it was surveyed by Thomnas Telford in 1801. Construction began in 1803. The impetus for building the canal was the danger to west coast shipping by French pirates during the Napoleonic Wars. The lochs were built to accomodate frigates, as well as trading vessels.

Eilean Donan Castle Wester Ross Eilean Donan overlooking Loch Duich, is one of Scotland&#039;s most romantically picturesque castles. This 12th century castle, believed to have been built by Alexander II to defend against Viking raids, belonged to the Mackenzies of Kintail until the early 16 th century when it became the seat of the Clan MacRae. The castle lay in ruins for 200 years after the English destroyed it with cannon fire during the Jacobite Rising of 1719. Fortunately, the 1930s restoration has returned this castle to its former beauty. Dunvegan Castle Dunvegan comes from Dun Began after Began the Viking, who by conquest acquired a fortified house on Skye, perched on the top of a rock.Dunvegan Castle consists of a 14th century keep, 15th century tower, and a joining hall block from the 17th century, and was completely remodeled in the 19th century.Dunvegan has been continuously occupied by the chiefs of McLeod since 1270, and is the home of the renowned Fairy Flag.

The MacLeods were Jacobites, and retain many mementoes of Bonnie Prince Charlie. Balmoral Castle Balmoral Castle is a castellated mansion in the wooded countryside by the river Dee. Prince Albert had Balmoral Castle built as a country home for Queen Victoria in 1855. The property was once a hunting seat for Robert II, and in 1390 a stone castle was built here by Sir Malcolm Drummond. The property was acquired later by the Gordon Earls of Huntly, and then passed on to the Farquharsons of Inverey in 1662. The estate today is still maintained as a country residence by Her Majesty the Queen. Morton Castle Galloway Morton Castle consists of a ruined 15th century keep and triangular courtyard, built over a previous castle destroyed in 1357. Morton Castle&#039;s strategical location overlooks Loch Morton, south of Morton Mains in Dumfries and Galloway. The property originally belonged to the Adairs, but passed to Thomas Randolph early in the 14th century. The site then passed on to Cospatrick Earl of March who built the exisitng castle.

In 1459 it was aquired by the Douglases, who were later made Earls of Morton. Duart Castle II Isle of Mull Duart Castle is one of the classic residences of a highland chief and has been in the Maclean family since at least the 14th century. Duart Castle is sited on a high craig jutting out into the Sound of Mull. Dubh Ard in Gaelic means &quot;Black Point&quot; and this majestic castle was surely a strategic stronghold during the times of the Norse and Viking raiders. Eilean Donan Castle II Wester Ross Eilean Donan overlooking Loch Duich, is one of Scotland&#039;s most romantically picturesque castles. This 12th century castle, believed to have been built by Alexander II to defend against Viking raids, belonged to the Mackenzies of Kintail until the early 16 th century when it became the seat of the Clan MacRae. The castle lay in ruins for 200 years after the English destroyed it with cannon fire during the Jacobite Rising of 1719. Fortunately, the 1930s restoration has returned this castle to its former beauty.

Dun Sgathiach Dun Sgathiach is a ruined 14th century courtyard castle, incorporating an older castle or dun. The name meaning &quot;Dun of the Shadow&quot;, is associated Diarmid, a companion of Finn MacCool, the legendary Irish hero. There is much history and many legends about this ancient castle, including that it was build in a single night by a witch. Although the castle was originally held by the MacAskills, in the 14th century the lands of Sleat belonged to the MacLeods. After managing to fight off attacks by the MacDonald Lord of the Isles in 1395, and again in 1401, finally in the early 15th century the property passed to the MacDonalds. Oban Harbour There will never come a time when I tire of Oban, with all her boats and ships all tied up about the harbor and the gulls out on parade.. At night the lights dance upon the water and you cannot help but think about dark Dunollie Castle looking out over the isle of Kerrera.

View from Waternish As an artist I was quite charmed by this peaceful view from the little village of Geary, snuggled up the north end of the Waternish peninsula on the Isle of Skye,just over the hill from Dun Hallin. Dotted with sparse white washed cottages perched up on the cliffs, their stillness betraying the magnitude of the history past, in a place where the wind never ceases to gale. It is truly the end of the road. On a clear day you can look across the harbour at Uig, the purple mountains of Trotternish, and the shadows of the Western Isles. Buchaille Etive Mor Buchaille Etive Mor stands at the entrance to Glencoe on the fringes of the wilderness of Rannoch Moor. The cottage is aptly known as the Black Rock. This eerie and silent mountain complex is known for its spectacular beauty and foreboding history, the most renowned of which is the Massacre of the MacDonalds of Glencoe in 1692 by a Campbell regiment at the order of King William. St.

Ronan&#039;s Bay Isle of Iona Iona was adopted as the center of religion by the sun worshipping Druids long before the birth of Christianity that brought Saint Columba in 563 AD. Steeped in Medieval history and folklore, Iona&#039;s celtic crosses watch over the burial grounds of Kings and Viking massacres. over the Centuries, Iona has passed from the McDonalds to the Macleans of Duart and finally, to the Dukes of Argyll, where it remains to this day. St. John&#039;s Cross Isle of Iona Iona was adopted as the center of religion by the sun worshipping Druids long before the birth of Christianity that brought Saint Columba in 563 AD. Steeped in Medieval history and folklore, Iona&#039;s celtic crosses watch over the burial grounds of Kings and Viking massacres. over the Centuries, Iona has passed from the McDonalds to the Macleans of Duart and finally, to the Dukes of Argyll, where it remains to this day. St.

Mary&#039;s Abbey Isle of Iona Iona was adopted as the center of religion by the sun worshipping Druids long before the birth of Christianity that brought Saint Columba in 563 AD. Steeped in Medieval history and folklore, Iona&#039;s celtic crosses watch over the burial grounds of Kings and Viking massacres. over the Centuries, Iona has passed from the McDonalds to the Macleans of Duart and finally, to the Dukes of Argyll, where it remains to this day. Rob Roy&#039;s Balquidder The ruins of Balquidder&#039;s older Kirk overlooking the serene Loch Voil was partially built over the 13th Century pre-Reformation church known as &quot;Eaglais Beag&quot; - Little Church. The present Kirk on the right was built by David Carnegie in 1855. Balquidder is well known as the burial site of the legendary Rob Roy MacGregor (1671-1734).

This area is also the traditional home of Clans Laurin (MacLaren), MacGregor, Fergus(s)on, and Stewart of Glenbuckie Highland Fields Stirling Highland Cottage Invernesshire Boats at Plockton If you go north from Eilean Donan Castle before Kyle of Lochalsh, following the one-track road along the coast, you will eventually come to the picturesque village of Plockton. Plockton is unique for a west coast fishing village in that it is set on the east side of a great headland protruding out of Loch Carron which protects it from sea gales. Otters and seals swim in the many creeks and inlets up and down this beautiful coastline, dotted with palm trees that flourish from the water of the Gulf Stream. Highland cattle roam the Main Street and sunbath on the beach. Longhouse at Keller Red Bridge at Callander Once one of a string of forts built all the way to Perth in the first century by the Romans, Callander today is a booming tourist town. The beautiful view of Ben Ledi towering over the southern end of Loch Lubnaig provides a magnificent landmark when viewed from the Stirling to Callander road.

Main Street houses the Rob Roy Center, many woolen stores, tea shops and the best fish and chips anywhere. Village of Balquhidder Once the bustling hubbub of Kirkton Glen, this tiny village supported a pub, country store, mill, hall and reading room. Now its peaceful reverie is only broken by tourists come to visit Rob Roy&#039;s grave, hill walkers and those who just want to walk along Loch Voil. All that was once part of the Carnegie estate is now broken up into pivate homes although the clans such as the MacLarens, MacGregors, Stewarts and Fergusons still gather in the glen. title="Last Page">

Question: Urquhart castle in Scotland overlooks which famous stretch of water?
Answer: Loch Ness