Morar, together with, Moidart and Knoydart, forms part of the Rough Bounds, an area renowned for its wild, remote and rugged landscapes. Morar is divided by Loch Morar into South Morar and North Morar. Loch Morar is a glacial loch with steep sides and is one of the deepest freshwater lochs in the British Isles, descending to a maximum depth of 310 metres. Loch Morar and the surrounding hills are good place to look for red deer, roe deer, raptors (including white-tailed eagle and golden eagle), great northern divers, otters, wild cat, badger and pine marten. However, watch out for Morag, the loch monster of Morar; this serpentine beast may be lurking in the deep waters of the loch.
Morar contains some lovely and interesting settlements. Take time to visit Arisaig which overlooks the lovely sheltered bay of Loch na Ceall in South Morar. This harbour village supports a cafe, a general store, hotel and restaurant. Arisaig also supports a marina and harbour office, from which you can take a boat trip to the Small Isles sailing on the MV Sheerwater (e.g. Isle of Eigg). The Land, Sea and Isles Centre in Arisaig houses an interesting collection of books, photographs, artefacts and exhibits illustrating the social, cultural and natural history of Arisaig and Morar.
Beside the 19th century church at Arisaig, there is also a ruined church (Maelrubha Chapel) dedicated to St Maelrubha. The famous Gaelic poet, Alasdair mac Mhaighstir Alasdair is buried in the adjacent burial ground.
Just outside the village of Arisaig, there is an opportunity for a lovely stroll through the gardens of Làrach Mòr on the Arisaig Estate. There is also a golf course just north of Arisaig, Traigh Golf Course, which is a nine-hole course with terrific coastal views.
The picturesque fishing port of Mallaig in North Morar is well worth a visit. There are several eating places (including restaurants, cafes, take-ways and pubs), two general stores, two banks, a tourist information office, a garage, a fisherman’s mission, a community centre, a boat yard, a chandlery and a small selection of gift shops and hotels. There is also a harbour, pier and swimming pool. Mallaig also supports a ferry service to Skye and the Small Isles (e.g. The Isle of Rum), as well as wildlife cruises.
Learn more about this small fishing port by visiting the The Mallaig Heritage Centre. The Visitor Centre provides a unique insight into the landscape, history and culture of the Rough Bounds through exhibits, models and film.
Mallaig is the terminus for West Highland Extension, opened on 1st April 1901, providing a link between the city of Glasgow and Mallaig. Look out for or ride aboard ‘The Jacobite’ a steam locomotive tourist train that runs between Fort William and Mallaig throughout the summer; a real treat for rail enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans alike.
There are some lovely walks in Morar, Mallaig and Arisaig, including Loch a Bhada Dharaich, Loch an Nostarie and Mallaig, Loch Morar and Mallaig Circular.
There are also some lovely beaches in the Morar, Mallaig and Arisaig, including Rhu Point Beach, Bourblach Beach at Morar and Camusdarach Beaches. The latter featured in the film Local Hero.
The Prince's Cairn, on the A830, the Road to the Isles, near Beasdale Station commemorates the historic departure point of Bonnie Prince Charlie from Loch nan Uamh in 1746, following the unsuccessful 1745 uprising.
There is a great selection of holiday accommodation ranging from self-catering cottages, lodges and estate properties in Malliag, Arisaig and Morar through to luxury hotels, guest houses and B&B. Make your holiday a holiday to remember in Malliag, Arisaig and Morar this year.
Malliag, Arisaig and Morar is great region for those who enjoy lovely beaches, small quaint fishing ports and harbours, and want to explore the Small Isles and Skye. Take time to revel in the lovely bustling fishing port of Mallaig and lovely harbour village of Arisaig.