Castle Maol

Castle Maol at Kyleakin, built by 'Saucy Mary' ,Norwegian wife of the chief of Clan MacKinnon who made income by stretching a chain from Kyle of Lochalsh to Kyleakin narrows and only allowing passage on payment of a toll. On payment, it is said she bared her chest, thus earning her name! Tradition has it that she is buried under the castle.
Kyleakin is named after King Haakon, who was defeated by Alexander III at Largs in 1263. The Norwegians are said to have approached the Scots barefoot to surprise them , but after treading on thistles they alerted the Scots. Hence thistle being the national symbol!