Castle Stalker, Medieval tower house in Argyll and Bute, Scotland.
Castle Stalker rises as a four-story stone tower on a tidal islet in Loch Laich, surrounded by the waters of western Scotland. The gray stone facade carries battlements and narrow window openings that preserve the character of a medieval defensive structure.
The Stewarts built the present tower in the 1440s after gaining control of the Lordship of Lorn from Clan MacDougall in 1388. Ownership later passed several times between different Scottish families before the structure underwent restoration in the 20th century.
The name derives from the Gaelic word "Stalcaire", pointing to the hunting activity once practiced in this area. Today the tower stands as a landmark of the western Scottish coast, often photographed by travelers passing along the loch.
Visits are possible during summer through guided tours that should be booked well in advance, as the islet is accessible only at certain tidal conditions. A view from the mainland also offers a good look at the tower, which stands out against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
The tower passed into the hands of Clan Campbell in the early 17th century after the Stewart owner at the time lost a wager during a drinking session with King James IV. This unusual transfer of ownership then shaped the family history of both clans for generations.
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