Caisteal Uisdein, better known as Hugh's Castle, is a 16th-century fortified tower house in a beautiful location looking out across Loch Snizort, on the stunning Trotternish Peninsula. Today you can only see the walls which rise to a maximum of about 20 feet high (6m). We don't know how high the original tower would have stood, but it would never have been a major fortress along the lines of Dunvegan Castle.
The castle was erected by Hugh MacDonald (Uistean Mac Ghilleaspuig Chlerich) of Sleat and has a bloody legend including mixed up letters, dungeons and all sorts of medieval cruelty which you can look up under the link: britainexpress.com/scotland/Skye/hughs-castle.htm.

Andrew Topping

October 6, 2024

The path to Hugh’s Castle is a rough landrover track that can get muddy, especially after rain. The walk offers stunning views of Loch Snizort and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for the wooden posts with Celtic symbols that guide you along the way.
Built in the late 16th century by Hugh MacDonald, the castle was intended to assert his authority in the Trotternish region. The castle itself is a simple, rectangular tower house with thick walls and minimal openings, reflecting its defensive purpose.

DirkD

November 19, 2024

I wouldn't immediately call it a spectacular ruin, but the area around Loch Snizort is downright beautiful and also very quiet. It is still a hidden gem on the Isle of Skye where the flow of tourists has not yet penetrated.
Hugh MacDonald was not a good family man. He caused a lot of rivalry among the clan members because he wanted to grab power for himself. In 1603 he was captured for planning the murder of his own cousin, who was then clan leader. Old, dark stories tell that during his captivity Hugh was only given heavily salted meat but no water, which caused him to die a horrible death from dehydration.

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Elevation 70 m

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Wednesday 22 October

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Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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Location: Uig, Isle of Skye, Highlands, Scotland, United Kingdom

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Hugh's Castle (Caisteal Uisdein)

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