Clan MacKinnon - Clann Mhic Fhionghuin

Castle Moil (Caisteal Maol), Kyleakin, Isle of Skye

       In the late 15th century Clan Mackinnon moved from their earlier base at Dun Ringill, near Elgol, to this castle at Kyleakin. At that time the castle was known as Dun Acainn.

       Early in the 17th century the clan moved on and the castle fell into disrepair. All that remains is this ruin, looking from some angles rather like a massive decaying tooth!

      We now head west from Portree on the single-track road which cuts across the middle of the island. This is known locally as "the hill road" for very obvious reasons. Descending towards the west coast we are blessed with a stunning view of the islands of Loch Bracadale in the foreground and those of the Outer Hebrides in the far distance.

  We join the main road and turn northwards through the village of Struan which has shops, a restaurant and a filling station. Just beyond Struan we can stop and explore the broch of Dun Beag which is not as  well-preserved as some but, because of its commanding position, gives  a real sense of the strategic importance of many of these ancient forts.