Today visitors cross from the lochside over a stone arched causeway to the forecourt and main entrance. Passing through the main doorway  under the portcullis and entering the courtyard, the plan of the stronghold is revealed. After lowering the portcullis the outer walls were defended but, if these fell, the besieged withdrew and held the inner fortress.


Over the portcullis can be seen a Gaelic inscription which, translated reads

" As long as there is a Macrae inside
  There will never be a Fraser outside"



Eilean Donan Castle Courtyard