Dun Eiphinn Fort

Dun Eiphinn is a dramatic fortification located on the island of Gometra, situated on the south shore about 600 meters south-south-east of Gometra House. The fort occupies the summit of a prominent rock stack that overlooks the shore, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding waters. The sheer vertical rock face on the south-east rises to 17 meters, offering impregnable natural defence, while the north-west side slopes down more gently.

The internal enclosure of the fort is irregular, following the contours of the summit and measuring about 61 meters by 15 meters. While the main walls have been largely destroyed, a considerable stretch of the outer face remains on the north-west side, standing up to 0.8 meters high. Below the main rock face, the entrance was further protected by outworks consisting of two independent lengths of wall, showcasing a sophisticated approach to defence in depth.

At the south-west end of the interior, the turf-covered foundations of a rectangular enclosure are visible, though these are likely of a much more recent origin than the fort itself. Dun Eiphinn is a rewarding site for those trekking across Gometra, combining rugged natural beauty with the tangible remains of the island’s ancient martial history.