We went to Dunvegan on an unusual sunny day and anchored in front of the castle for the evening. It was warm enough to sit outside for a change and the sunset on the castle was glorious.
The next day we went off to explore the castle. The weather was back to normal, but we mostly managed to avoid the rain. The gardens had a wild section, a water section, a walled garden, and a round garden. They were beautiful and Phil very much enjoyed the children's play area.
Inside the castle we learnt that whilst its base dated back to the 13th century, most of the upper parts were redeveloped in the 19th century. It has been the seat of clan MacLeod for 800 years. This clan have the motto "Hold Fast", which is often used in a sailing context, but for the MacLeods it orginated as the chief was confronted by a wild bull. We learnt that the clan had been involved in a large number wars, rebellions and a continuing stream of general violence.
Another story of note was the involvement of Flora MacDonald who helped smuggle Bonnie Prince Charlie across to Skye from the South Uist in Outer Herbredies. She was arrested and imprisoned in London, but later resleased as the authorities feared a riot.
They also had a ceremonial drinking horn which hold a litre and a half of wine. The record for drinking the whole contents is just over minute. However I would suspect the hangover lasted significantly longer.
After a day sight seeing, I had a lobster supper at the Dunvegan Hotel and then it was back over the sea away from Skye to the Isle of Harris.
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