Dùn Ara Castle

Dùn Ara Castle, also known as Dùn Ara Fort, is a fascinating ruined medieval castle situated on a prominent rocky outcrop at Sorne Point, near Glengorm Castle on the northern coast of Mull. Dating back to at least the 14th century, it was a significant stronghold of the MacKinnon Clan, who held these lands from 1354. The castle’s strategic location, overlooking the sea towards Coll and Ardnamurchan, was valuable for defending a harbour or boat landing, which was likely its original means of access. The ruins today provide a tangible link to Mull’s turbulent clan history, having been occupied until as late as the 17th century before its abandonment.

The castle primarily consists of the remains of a curtain wall of stone and lime that once enclosed the entire rock summit. This wall, varying in thickness from about 1.3 to 1.8 metres, is best preserved on the north-east side, reaching a maximum height of 1.8 metres. Little remains on the south-west and south-east sides. The masonry, built with coarse lime mortar, has largely lost its mortar from the facework, giving it the appearance of dry-stone walling. Intriguingly, it’s thought that some of the lower courses of masonry might even pre-date the medieval castle, suggesting the site was an ancient dùn or fort long before the castle was constructed.

Dùn Ara Castle is located on the Glengorm Estate, near Tobermory, and is generally accessible to visitors. A walk of approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) round trip from the Glengorm coffee shop parking area leads to the ruins. The ascent to the top of the outcrop is considered straightforward from the south-east side, and the castle’s foundations are still clearly visible, allowing visitors to appreciate its former layout. From the ruins, there are excellent views out to the surrounding islands. As the site is on a working estate, visitors are reminded to keep dogs on a lead and respect the environment.