Following last month’s look at castles around the Edinburgh area, we journey further north to the Scottish Highlands. More sparsely populated than the south of Scotland, the Highlands are where you can find Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and the largest volume of fresh water, Loch Ness (said to be home to one of the world’s most famous cryptids, “Nessie”).

We have a range of castles spread throughout the region, allowing you to explore the many different areas!

Damunzie Castle

Found in the southern Highlands, connecting the mountainous north to the more urban central belt, stands Dalmunzie Castle. Surrounded by spectacular countryside, yet less than 2 hours’ drive from Edinburgh, this turreted Baronial home was listed amongst Scotland’s Top 10 Most Romantic Hideaways.

The castle has 17 individual and quirky bedrooms, designed with the traditional theme of the building in mind and often incorporating four poster beds. The 6500 acre estate is a great location for golf, tennis, walking and mountain biking. Clay pigeon shooting, dry stalking, 4WD estate tours, shooting & fishing can also be arranged. After a day exploring the countryside, with two AA rosettes and four years recommended in the Michelin guide, dinner is always an experience to remember.

Accommodation at Dalmunzie Castle starts at just 135 pounds per night for bed and breakfast accommodation.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/dalmunzie-castle

Dornoch Castle

15th century Dornoch Castle is located in the historic town of Dornoch, just an hour from Inverness. The bedrooms have undergone extensive refurbishment in recent years. Many rooms have an individual character and tastefully celebrate the building’s baronial past. The castle offers wonderful views over the Dornoch Firth and the nearby beaches make for a great spot for whale and dolphin watching.

Double rooms in the main castle building start at 140 pounds per night. Rooms in the additional easterly wing, built in the late 70s, start at 94 pounds per night. All bookings are on a bed and breakfast basis.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/dornoch

Aldourie Castle

Aldourie Castle is a luxury exclusive hire venue, the only place of its kind on the banks of Loch Ness. Its location just 30 minutes from Inverness Airport makes Aldourie easily accessible from anywhere in the UK. The castle itself sleeps up to 30 people, staff are always on hand to fulfil a guest’s every need.

If you’re looking for a short break for more immediate friends or family, you can stay in one of the four individual self catered cottages that are located on the estate (see our Aldourie Cottages article for more information).

Aldourie Castle can be hired exclusive from 10,500 pounds plus VAT for 2 nights. Cottages start from 500 pounds per week.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/aldourie-castle

Tulloch Castle

Tulloch Castle is just outside the centre of Dingwall, 15 miles north of Inverness. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has a lively history for visitors to explore. Guests can choose from 19 bedrooms, each uniquely designed, many with four poster beds.

Accommodation at Tulloch Castle starts at 165 pounds per room per night for bed and breakfast.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/tulloch

Inverlochy Castle

Inverlochy Castle sits at the foothills of Ben Nevis. The castle sits in beautiful landscaped gardens with the Glencoe mountains on one side and a sparkling loch on the other.

Inverlochy has a reputation as one of the world’s finest hotels. The 5 star accommodation consists of 17 luxury bedrooms, each individually designed.

Dinner is enjoyed in one of three period dining rooms; the cuisine has been recognised internationally, with the restaurant awarded AA 3 Red Rosettes and 1 Michelin Star.

As with much of Scotland, there is a selection of excellent golf courses within easy reach, including the 18 hole Fort William course. Fishing, hunting, mountain biking, clay pigeon shooting and more all take place locally.

Bedrooms at Inverlochy Castle are available from 320 pounds per room per night, bed and breakfast.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/inverlochy

Mansfield Castle

Mansfield Castle is located one hour north of Inverness. The castle offers accommodation in 19 bedrooms, the most popular of which is the Tower Suite, which comes complete with 2 bedrooms (great for families!), a lounge area and superb views in every direction.

Bedrooms at Mansfield Castle start at 150 pounds per room per night for bed and breakfast.

www.celticcastles.com/castles/mansfield-castle