The best fairy tales always have a castle: soaring towers, a formidable moat and a breathtaking view.
In Scotland, these ancient castles rise above deep lochs and towns. Travelers will find these striking castles in every corner of the country.
We have chosen 10 magnificent castles to explore in this old land.
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From the capital of Edinburgh to the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, here are 10 of the most striking castles in Scotland. Get ready to dream of owning one.
Eilean Donan, Inverness-shire
This 13th-century castle set on a small island in a loch is one of the most iconic in Scotland. Located in the Highlands with a view toward the Isle of Skye, this stunning castle is connected to the mainland by a footbridge.
It was restored in the early 20th century and often appears on television and in film. Visitors can wander the rooms to see period furniture, artifacts and weaponry.
Edinburgh Castle, City of Edinburgh
Perhaps the most famous (and most visited) castle in Scotland sits right in the heart of the capital. Perched atop the city on Castle Rock, this fortress has a commanding presence in the Edinburgh skyline.
The oldest part of the castle dates back to the 12th century, and many visitors come specifically to see Scotland's crown jewels. Guided tours are available.
Culzean Castle, Ayrshire
Sharp-eyed travelers may recognize Culzean Castle from the back of the 5-pound note issued by the Royal Bank of Scotland. This clifftop castle on the Ayrshire coast has been associated with the Kennedy family for centuries.
It is a particularly memorable example of a fairy-tale structure, with its towers and battlements perched above a churning sea and surrounded by gardens and woodland.
Ballindalloch Castle, Banffshire
Often called the "Pearl of the North," this 16th-century castle sits in the heart of one of Scotland's whisky regions, Speyside. Unlike other castles in Scotland, it is one of the few in the country that remains private: the Macpherson-Grant family has lived here continuously for centuries.
The castle is open to visitors during the summer months and has a shop selling a range of Scottish goods, including tartans and jewelry.
Castle Fraser, Aberdeenshire
Film buffs may recognize Castle Fraser from the movie "The Queen" with Helen Mirren (it appeared as a backdrop). Castle Fraser is one of the grandest and most romantic castles in the country.
Built between 1575 and 1636, the castle sits on more than 300 acres of landscaped grounds and woodland. Inside, it has the feel of a family home, with portraits of the Fraser family and original furnishings.
Stirling Castle, Stirlingshire
One of the largest (and most historically and architecturally important) castles is Stirling Castle. An easy trip from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, this castle was once a place where knights and nobles flocked to a lavish estate with its elegant gardens.
It is a great place for families to visit; the grounds feature costumed characters in historical roles, and children can dress up in period costumes and play medieval instruments.
Urquhart Castle, Inverness-shire
The mythical monster of Loch Ness, Nessie, may draw travelers to the Scottish Highlands, but it is Urquhart Castle that sets the dramatic scene. One of the most visited castles in the country, its Grand Tower rises above the vast waters of Loch Ness.
An early medieval fortification was built here, but the ruins you can see today date from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The castle also played a strategic role in the Wars of Scottish Independence.
Glamis Castle, Angus
One of the tallest, and most historically fascinating, castles in Scotland is Glamis Castle. This building is famous as the setting of Shakespeare's "Macbeth," as well as the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother (her younger daughter, Princess Margaret, was born here). The surrounding estate covers 14,000 acres of gardens, farmland and woodland.
Inveraray Castle, Argyllshire
Set in western Scotland on the shore of Loch Fyne, this castle has a fairy-tale facade with a charming interior. Many visitors enjoy the tea room here, which offers a glimpse of royal life.
Fans of "Downton Abbey" may recognize it from the Christmas episode of season 3. The castle has a beautiful 16-acre garden, surrounded by a huge 60,000-acre estate.
Crathes Castle, Aberdeenshire
Nestled in the woodlands of Aberdeenshire, Crathes Castle dates from the 16th century and is linked to the Scottish warrior king Robert the Bruce. Its towers, turrets and ghost stories make this castle especially intriguing to visit, along with its beautiful walled garden. Travelers with an interest in art will be drawn to its collection of portraits and painted ceilings.
