Dunnator Castle

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress sitting on top of rocky cliff 3kms away from Stonehaven,which lies along the north east coast of Scotland in Aberdeenshire.   The meaning of Dunnottar means fort on the shelving slope.  Here's the first view of the castle.

This has been the defensive site from 7th century or even longer, but what you see here are the surviving  buildings of mostly 17th century.  The castle is surrounded all three sides by North sea and is accessible only by a steep and narrow stone cut path that takes you to the top of the cliff and to the castle.  

These are the stairs through which I came down to reach the castle..It's going to be tough to go back!

The first view of the castle entrance and the long passage

The eastern ground and the remains of the castle...

West wing of the castle

This was once a chapel

The castle keep, where we can climb up the top and have a great view of the sea

The little tunnel 

This is the overall view of the broken and shattered buildings. It's a vast place to picnic.  We sat there and had our packed sandwiches.  So did many of them. 

The view of the sea as seen from castle keep

Gunloops all over the castle. 

It is also an ideal place to bird watch as there used to be lots and lots of nesting within the cliffs

There's also steep ways to get down to the sea.  It's tranquil and beautiful on nice weather condition.  And this is the view of the castle from the bay

Visiting this castle will give a nice unforgettable experience looking through the dramatic cliffs and fortress in a stunning sea backdrop.    

The castle is best reached from Stonehaven Harbour through a 2.5 miles trial along the coast.  It's a moderately difficult trial, but worth making - Walking along the sea with stunning views! Since there is no catering facilities on the way and inside the castle.  Hence carry with you water and food! Alternatively, the castle can be reached by local bus from Stonehaven.