Castle Stalker, a romantic, 500 year old castle accessed by boat.



Castle Stalker

This evening, I am posting information on Castle Stalker, a sympathetically restored castle which has origins in the 15th century.

Caisteal Stalcaire (Fortress of the Hunter) is located on the Rock of the Cormorants, an islet at the mouth of Loch Laich,which in turn is  an inlet off Loch Linnhe in the West of Scotland. There is a good viewpoint located off the A828 at Portnacroish, between Fort William and Oban. Location is  about 18 miles north of Oban.

This castle has featured in Scottish history, being a host to a king, scene of battles, murders and wars. Here is a historical summary:
  • Built by Sir John Stewart prior to his murder at Dunstaffnage in 1463 by a Macdougall. The murder was avenged in 1468 at Battle of Stalc fought at the Castle’s gates.
  • Played host to King James IV (1473-1513) during hunting (hawking) expeditions in the Highlands.
  • Friction between Campbells and Stewarts 1520-1544 resulting in murders.
  • Fell into Clan Campbell hands during 17th century.
  • Failed to fall to a force of besieging Jacobites in 1745 which left the castle as an important supply base for the Government forces during the Jacobite uprising.
  • Served as a mustering point for surrendering clansmen after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.
  • Ruined by 1840 but restored in 1960s.
  • Present owners of the Castle are the Stewart Allward family.
Visiting the castle

Tours are available from April to October. A maximum of one tour per day which will entail a transfer by boat and a personal guided tour. Check castle website for details.

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