| Urquhart Castle is a spectacular ruin in a beautiful setting against Loch Ness. The Urquhart Glen has been habited since 2000 BC, and there has probably been a castle at this site since the 13th Century. There is some evidence that Saint Columbra, who brought Christianity to Scotland, may have converted a Pict noble named Emchath whose home may have stood on the castle's site. |  |
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| The site is well suited for a fortress for it is defended on three sides by the loch. It played a role in controlling Loch Ness for hundreds of years until 1692 when a departing garrison blew up part of the buildings. |
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| Drumnadrochit is the center of Nessie-mania, which we studiously avoided. The village is otherwise rather nice with several decent restaurants. We ate at crowded place called Fiddlers and stayed at the Drumbuie Farm B&B. Drumbuie Farm is owned by the Urquhart family, who are of the same clan as the castle. The farm has a herd of Highland cattle, but they were in a field that was out of sight while we were there. From their breakfast room, guests have a great view of Loch Ness. |