Dunyvaig Castle
Dùn Naomhaig
Ruins on a headland at the mouth of Laphroaig Bay, once the seaside stronghold of the MacDonalds, the 'Lords of the Isles'.
Dunyvaig Castle was built in the 12th and 13th centuries to guard the entrance to Laphroaig Bay. It was the base of the MacDonald fleet and was abandoned in the early 17th century after several sieges. Today only broken walls remain on the headland. It's about a 10-minute walk from Laphroaig Distillery along the coastal path, but the rocks are slippery, so take care. The site is unfenced and free to visit. Looking back from the castle at the distillery's white walls and the bay is a classic view on the Three Distilleries Walk.
Opening hours
All day, free
Nearby sights
- Lagavulin Distillery
- Ardbeg Distillery
- Laphroaig Distillery
- Port Ellen Distillery
- Kildalton Cross
- Singing Sands (Tràigh Bhàn)
- Islay Woollen Mill
- Kilarrow Parish Church (Round Church)