Castle Stalker Loch Laich

Castle Stalker, deriving its name from the Gaelic 'Stalcaire', meaning 'hunter' or 'falconer', was originally a small fortification built by the MacDougall clan in the early 14th century. By the late 14th century, the castle came under the ownership of the Stewarts of Appin, who constructed the current tower house around 1440. This four-storey tower house played a significant role in the turbulent history of the Scottish Highlands, witnessing numerous clan feuds and political intrigues. Notably, it was seized by James IV of Scotland in 1495, who used it as a hunting lodge. The castle changed hands several times over the centuries, often as a result of the shifting allegiances during the Jacobite risings. By the 19th century, Castle Stalker had fallen into disrepair. However, in the 1960s, Lt. Col. D. R. Stewart Allward undertook a meticulous restoration, preserving its medieval charm. Today, Castle Stalker is privately owned but occasionally opens to the public, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its storied halls and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.