Ardvreck Castle

28 Feb

Ardvreck Castle originally belonged to Clan MacLeod and dates back to the 16th century. Today, it is just a fragment of its former self. But this castle ruin makes for a visually striking and quite dramatic sight nonetheless, standing solitary on its own little peninsula on the banks of Loch Assynt, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery all around. Even though it is just a ruin, its shape is quite interesting and the castle looks different from various angles.

Clan Mackenzie attacked and gained control of the area in the late 17th century. They built a more modern dwelling nearby, Calda House, which burned down later on. Its ruin is found just metres away from the main road - you couldn’t miss it if you tried.

Ardvreck Castle and Calda House are very easy to reach from the main road A837. You get a nice view of both as you are driving, but it’s worth making a stop here and getting closer. Free parking is available and it’s a few minutes walk to reach either site.

Due to the remote location in the north-western coast of Scotland, this castle is well off the tourist trail. The popularity of the route NC500 means it does get its fair share of visitors especially during summer time, but still it wouldn’t ever get too crowded.