He was Huntly called upon Sir Duncan Grant of Freuchie to bring order to the vicinity of Urquhart Castle. His son, John Grant of Freuchie, was given a lease of the Glen Urquhart estate in 1502, and in 1509, the castle and surrounding estates were granted to him permanently by James IV. He was required to repair and rebuild the court, and the Grants retained ownership until 1512. The area continued to suffer from western raids, with one instance in 1513 involving the loss of cattle, sheep, and provisions. Despite efforts to claim damages, the situation remained unresolved. James Grant of Freuchie succeeded his father and was involved in a feud that culminated in the Battle of the Shirts, followed by the MacDonalds' capture of Urquhart in 1545 during the "Great Raid." The castle was later regained, and Cameron's lands were awarded as compensation.
The last raid occurred in 1527, and by the end of the 16th century, the Grants had rebuilt Urquhart, making them a formidable power in the Highlands. Repairs continued into 1623, but the castle's significance waned. In 1644, Covenanters ransacked the palace, and during Oliver Cromwell's invasion of Scotland, it was largely ignored. When James VII was overthrown in 1688, Ludovic Grant garrisoned the castle with his soldiers. The garrison held against a Jacobite siege until 1690, when they destroyed the gatehouse to prevent further occupation. Despite an order for compensation, the castle was not repaired and fell into ruin, with further damage caused by storms and local plundering.
Embarking on a journey through some of the most striking and historically rich locations in the Scottish Highlands promises an unforgettable adventure filled with enchantment, lore, and natural beauty. Here's how you might enjoy such a trip, encompassing the mystical, historical, and cultural gems of the region:
Morning: Skye's Mystical Landscape
Fairy Glen: Folklore and Geology on the Isle of Skye Start your day on the Isle of Skye, exploring the Fairy Glen. This surreal landscape of peculiar conical hills and twisted rocks is imbued with local folklore, hinting at a supernatural presence. Legend has it that fairies created this magical landscape, and they still inhabit it today.
Skye Ferry: Navigating the Kylerhea Straits Between Skye and Mainland Scotland Hop on the Skye Ferry to cross the Kylerhea Straits, a picturesque journey steeped in tradition. The small ferry presents a chance to experience a genuine connection with the Scottish maritime heritage, adding a touch of nostalgia to the trip.
Midday: The West Coast's Rich Tapestry
Glenelg, Highland: A Historical and Natural Tapestry of Scotland's West Coast Arriving at Glenelg, you'll discover an area brimming with historical intrigue and natural beauty. Explore the ancient brochs and learn about the region's Viking history while admiring the breathtaking coastal scenery.
Lunch at Redburn Cafe & Gifts A relaxing lunch at Redburn Cafe allows one to enjoy locally sourced cuisine. The attached gift shop offers unique local crafts, perfect for a keepsake.
Afternoon: Loch Ness and Historical Explorations
Loch Ness: A Majestic Lake of Myths and Milestones A trip to the Highlands wouldn't be complete without visiting Loch Ness. Famous for its legendary monster, Nessie, this deep freshwater loch also offers stunning views and opportunities for boat tours.
History of Urquhart Castle: Early Beginnings to 15th Century Conflicts Nearby, explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, which stands as a testament to Scotland's turbulent history. Its strategic location provides a glimpse into the early beginnings and 15th-century conflicts that shaped the nation.
Inverness: The Castle's Legacy and the Leaning Town Steeple Arriving in Inverness, explore the town's rich history, including the Castle's legacy and the intriguing leaning steeple.
Highland Heritage Unveiled: A Journey Through the Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Center Don't miss the Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Center for a hands-on experience of the country's textile heritage.
Evening: Literary Havens and Culinary Delights
Leakey's Bookshop: A Literary Haven in the Heart of Inverness Browse the extensive collection at Leakey's Bookshop, a must-see for book lovers.
The Downright Gabbler of Beauly: Tradition, Taste, and Tales End the day in Beauly at The Downright Gabbler, where the fusion of historical and modern cuisine by the skilled daughter of a former Speaker of the Parliament combines with the storytelling artistry of her father for a unique dining experience.
Night: Luxury Highland Rest
Sandown House: A Luxury Highland Haven Retire to Sandown House, where luxury and comfort await, providing the perfect end to a day filled with the diverse and rich tapestry of the Scottish Highlands.
This day trip offers a fascinating blend of natural wonders, historical treasures, culinary delights, and local craftsmanship. Every stop reveals a different facet of Scottish culture and heritage, creating a truly immersive experience. Whether you're drawn to the mystical landscapes of Skye, the historical narratives of Glenelg and Inverness, or the bespoke tailoring of Campbell's in Beauly, this journey offers something for every traveller's taste.