Castle Stalker View & Wildlife Hub

Perched on an islet where Loch Laich reaches out to Loch Linnhe, Castle Stalker is oh-so-picturesque.  Wrapped in layers of history as well as tranquil surroundings, this 15th century tower house has its origins in a 14th century fort built by the Macdougall clan.  King James IV used the castle as his base during hunting trips in the area around the end of the 15th century, and it spent much of its history in the hands of the Stewarts of Appin, until a drunken episode in 1620 with the Campbells when the Stewart Chief exchanged it for a boat (!).  The castle was abandoned by the Campbells in 1800.

Today it is owned privately but there are limited tours in the summer.

The perfect place to bask in the castle views, with Loch Linnhe spilling out behind it, is at Castle Stalker View.  With a lovely shop and cafe, it is a great place to enjoy a spot of lunch, or home-baking and a coffee during a journey break along the coast, or to immerse yourself in the panoramic views unfolding from the viewpoint, a short walk from the cafe.

Now as well as enjoying the castle views and the delicious offerings of the cafe, you can also get an insight into wildlife in Appin and Argyll at the brand new Wildlife Hub, in partnership with Philip Price of Loch Visions photography.  The Hub has live nest cams on Sea Eagles, Barn Owls and Herons, and there is also a 20 minute wildlife film in a mini-IMAX theatre that highlights the area's wonderful wildlife.

Photo courtesy of Philip Price

Castle Stalker lies 25 miles north of Oban and around 20 miles from Taynuilt.