Duntulm: Castle, Footprints and Erisco’s History

Duntulm offers several distinct points of interest for planning a trip: Duntulm Castle is a designated historic site and stands prominently above the sea. Geology and dinosaur footprints provide another focus; Erisco’s history and the Rubha Hunish path offer different perspectives. If you’re looking for hotels in Duntulm, these themes can help you prioritise your interests for your stay.

Castle and Geology

Duntulm Castle is designated as a Scheduled Monument. The structure stands on a quadrangular site 50 feet above sea level; on three sides, the cliffs drop steeply to the sea. Its basic form, height and cliff-top location give the castle a distinctive landscape profile. You can distinguish two aspects: its Scheduled Monument status identifies the historic site, while the elevation and cliffs describe its location.

The geological context includes the Geological Conservation Review site at Duntulm (Cairidh Ghlumaig and Lon Ostatoin). It is included in the Skye Nature Conservation Order, which was confirmed on 14 January 2020. The Order applies to this named geological site; the Scheduled Monument designation refers to Duntulm Castle. This gives you a choice of different interests for your stay: the castle’s history or the site’s geological features.

Extensive sauropod footprints can be accessed on the tidal platform near Duntulm Castle. The Duntulm platform is easy to access and has numerous dinosaur footprints; however, access depends on the tides. Check local conditions before your visit. The footprints therefore offer a specific geological highlight, and access is something to take into account when planning.

Rubha Hunish Path and Erisco

The return leg of the Rubha Hunish walk follows the shore and offers an alternative view of Duntulm Castle. The view depends on conditions. This provides another perspective on the castle, alongside viewing the structure itself.

The Coast Guard lookout is located on the Rubha Hunish path. It served as a lookout station and is now maintained and used as a bothy. As its condition may change, check its current state before your visit. Its former function as a lookout station and its present use as a bothy describe two different aspects of this place.

The ruins of Erisco lie on the Rubha Hunish path, where you can stop and explore them. Erisco was used to resettle villagers during the Highland Clearances. Crofters built small cottages near the township wall. These details connect the ruins to a specific chapter of local history and also describe a historic form of construction. If you’re interested in Erisco’s history, the ruins and the resettlement offer two different points of interest for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Halkirk, Croy, Forsinard, Tain, Avoch, Lochinver, Alness, Spinningdale

For the broader travel overview: Highland.