Castle Dounie Dun is located within North Knapdale Forest, along from the shore from the Crinan Canal with spectacular views out towards the Sound of Jura. This fabulous site comprises of a later prehistoric dun or defensive dwelling, sited on a high crag on the North West coast of Knapdale. 

The dun is an irregular D-shape in plan, with a drystone wall enclosing an area approximately 55 feet by 45. The wall varies in height and thickness and, where best preserved stands to a height of 8 feet. Wall thickness varies from 6 to 12 feet.

The entrance is on the NE side and is very well-preserved, showing evidence of more than one phase of use.

An additional skin of walling was added to the east wall, which was used in the formation of intra-mural chambers, one of which still shows signs of having had a corbelled roof. The same chamber also has a small cupboard in its rear wall.

The site has commanding views over the Sound of Jura and the seaward approaches to the Add estuary, which leads to the ancient hillfort and capital of Dunadd. On its landward side the crag forms natural terraces, with level areas which may have been used for cultivation or occupation.

To get to the dun you can park by the shore of Loch Crinan where there is a footpath with a signpost that takes you along the shore past a cottage towards the trees. The woodland walk is quite steep in places so good walking boots and a rough map of the route are essential. There is a viewpoint half way up that provides stunning panoramic views that are simply breathtakingly beautiful. The final part of the walk up to the summit is very steep but once you reach the top all your efforts will be well rewarded with a dun that has many interesting features with a backdrop that is as stunning as anywhere in all of Scotland.