Situated a few miles north of Oban, Dunstaffnage Castle occupies the summit of a prominent rock outcrop, strategically placed at the seaward approach to Loch Etive. It was built by the Clan MacDougall in the early 13th century making it one of the oldest stone castles in the country. Besieged by Robert the Bruce in 1308, it remained under Royal control until passed on to the Clan Campbell earls of Argyll in the 1460s. They continued to remodel and occupy the castle until the 18th century.

In 1746, Flora MacDonald was briefly detained at the castle for her part in the escape of Bonnie Prince Charlie, prior to being moved to the Tower of London.