CASTLES DORNOCH

Dornoch Castle, a 15th-century fortress in the Scottish Highlands, features a distinctive vaulted dungeon testament to its medieval origins. Now operating as the Dornoch Castle Hotel, it offers guests luxury accommodations, fine dining, and an extensive whisky bar featuring selections from world-renowned distilleries and indie bottlers. The castle's historic dungeon hosts whisky tastings, private dining, and the annual Dornoch Whisky Festival each October, while the property maintains its own Whisky Club featuring exclusive single malts from the nearby Dornoch Distillery. This landmark venue elegantly bridges Highland heritage with contemporary hospitality, drawing whisky enthusiasts and travellers seeking historic elegance combined with curated tasting experiences.

Skelbo Castle is a ruined 14th-century keep located on the high shore at the mouth of Loch Fleet, about four miles north of Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands. Strategically positioned to protect the fertile lands around Dornoch Firth, it played a significant role in medieval Highland history and was occupied by both Scottish and English forces during the Wars of Scottish Independence. The remains are protected as a scheduled monument, and though not formally open to visitors, spectacular views of the ruins are accessible from nearby paths.