Dunstaffnage Castle
Dunstaffnage Castle
Dunstaffnage Castle was not a castle that I had heard a lot about. Unlike Stirling, or even Castle Campbell, Dunstaffnage was not on my “list of places I must see,” but I am sincerely glad I found this place.
Located at the mouth of Loch Etive, this castle was in a strategic location. Dunstaffnage castle eventually fell into the hands of the Campbell family, under the leadership of the Lord of Argyll. The views from the castle are spectacular. According to the castle guidebook, the walls tower 30 feet above you, and I believe it. If I was part of an invading force, I would certainly feel small in comparison.
Murder
As all castles, Dunstaffnage has an interesting story to tell. One of the keepers of the castle, John Stewart of Lorn, was on his way to be married at the chapel when he was fatally stabbed by his enemy, Alan MacDougall. Despite the stabbing, Stewart lived long enough to say his vows. The chapel is in ruins, but it is in an evocative location, and I highly recommend you take the time to walk there.
Dunstaffnage Castle is easy to find, and it is located near Oban – another must-see location.
Tags: Dunstaffnage castle, Scotland, Stewart


