Aldourie Castle, Category A listed mansion in Dores, Scotland
Aldourie Castle is a listed mansion standing on the southern shores of Loch Ness in the Highlands, surrounded by gardens, woodlands, and wildflower meadows across approximately 500 acres. The estate provides access to woodland trails and offers boat tours on the loch.
The building originated as a laird's house in 1626 and was transformed in the 1860s by architect William Fraser-Tytler into its current Scottish baronial form. This renovation shaped the property's appearance and made it an example of that architectural period.
The architecture displays typical Scottish features with a rectangular main block and round tower at the southwest corner. This design reflects local building traditions that remain visible today.
The estate can be reached by public transport to Dores village, with parking available at Dores church for visitors exploring the woodland paths. The surroundings offer good conditions for walking, especially if you want to wander the trails.
The property is the only inhabited castle directly situated on the shores of Loch Ness, making it rare among Scottish strongholds. This singular location allows visitors to experience the loch from a private perspective and participate in boat excursions.
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