Dun Mhadaidh

Dun Mhadaidh is situated at Langamull in North Mull, an area renowned for its pristine white sand beaches. The dun sits on a defensible rocky outcrop that overlooks the coast, providing a key lookout point. The structure is sub-rectangular in plan, but like many others in the region, the walls have collapsed to form a low spread of stones and turf. There is no significant height to the masonry today, but the footprint of the stronghold is clear.

The site is historically linked to the wider settlement of the area, most notably the nearby cleared township of Kildavie. It is highly likely that the stones from the dun were repurposed to build the houses of Kildavie in the 18th or 19th centuries, leaving only the foundations of the Iron Age structure. This recycling of stone is a common theme in the Highlands and connects the two eras of history.

Visiting Dun Mhadaidh is usually done as part of the walk to Langamull beach. It requires a bit of searching in the landscape, but finding the ancient foundations adds a rewarding historical element to a beach trip. It stands as a reminder that these quiet bays were once busy hubs of maritime activity and defense.