We kicked off our morning with a short coach trip to Eilean Donan Castle. It is the most photographed castle in Scotland and has appeared in numerous films. While the castle was originally built in the 13th century, a large portion of the structure is from the 20th century, when Lieutenant Colonel John MacRae-Gilstrap devoted his life to rebuilding the site and reclaiming it for the Clan MacRae. On our return to the ship, we made an impromptu trip over the Skye Bridge to the Isle of Skye for a quick photo stop of the bridge.
During lunch, the ship sailed for Armadale on the Isle of Skye for a visit to Armadale Castle, Botanical Gardens, and Museum of the Isles, the spiritual home of the Clan Donald. Built in 1815, the castle was reduced to ruins after a 1850s fire. The photogenic gardens are filled with giant cedar trees and hydrangea plants.
After returning to the ship, we sailed to the Knoydart Peninsula to the community of Inverie, a locally owned commune that's only accessible by boat or a 17 mile walk from Kinloch Hourn. After dinner, Inverie residents Jackie and Ian Robertson hosted a talk about their community. Then, we ventured out for a drink at The Old Forge Community Pub, one of the few community-owned pubs in Scotland.
