Donald Murchison Monument and Cove

Only a short walk through the woodlands, there is an impressive obelisk and a very nice view over Loch Alsh. Just before the monument, there is a little trail that leads down to a scenic little cove that is well worth a visit. The obelisk was errected in 1861 to the memory of Colonel Donald Murchison, loyal kinsman and factor to William, fifth Earl of Seaforth during the Jacobite Risings of 1715 and 1719. When Seaforth's title and lands were forfeited to the Crown, Murchison risked his life time and again to collect the rents and take them to his master in Paris. He was caught and imprisoned in the Tower of London until King George I, admiring his loyalty, pardoned him and gave him a grant of land. Unfortunately Seaforth was not granted nor did he recognise the King's gift. Murchison moved east and died disillusioned in middle age.

Donald Murchison’s monument is a stone obelisk that stands on a rocky headland overlooking Loch Alsh, near Kyle of Lochalsh. It was erected in 1861 by his great-grand-nephew Sir Roderick Murchison, a famous geologist and explorer. The monument commemorates Donald Murchison’s loyalty and bravery as a Jacobite factor and commander.