Dunvegan Castle
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Dunvegan Castle is a castle at Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, off the west coast of Scotland. It is the seat of the Macleod of MacLeod, chief of the major arm of the Clan MacLeod. It is reputed to be the oldest continuously inhabited castle in the UK. Unlike many other Scottish castles (which have come into state ownership or that of the National Trust), Dunvegan remains in the private ownership of the MacLeod family. It is a popular destination for tourists visiting the island.
The castle houses a number of family and clan relics; chief among them is the famous Fairie Flag of Dunvegan and the Dunvegan Cup. Legend has it that this magical flag was given to the clan by the queen of the fairies in reward of a favour they had done her, and that waving it would enlist the fairies help in time of need. The flag is said to have been waved on two occasions, with a single use remaining. The flag is displayed in the castle's drawing room, mounted in a picture frame. It is in a state of considerable decay.
Visitors to the castle can also enjoy trips on small boats to see the local seals resting on the rocks of small nearby islands (in summer season) and also enjoy the magnificent gardens that include a waterfall garden and a walled garden.
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