Moidart is a wild, beautiful, remote region in the heart of the West Highlands of Scotland, with the Ardnamurchan peninsular to the west, Arisaig and Morar to the north, Morvern to the south, and Sunart and Ardgour to the east.  Moidart, North Morar, Arisaig and Knoydart form part of the Rough Bounds, an area renowned for its wild, remote and rugged landscapes. In addition, The Small Isles (Eigg, Rum, Muck and Canna) and the Isle of Skye are accessible by ferries from the small fishing port of Mallaig, whilst the Isle of Mull can be accessed from jetties in Morvern and Ardnamurchan.

The Small Isles and parts of Moidart, Ardnamurchan and Morar are recognised as National Scenic Areas for their outstanding scenic landscapes and the richness of the fauna and flora.

Moidart, Ardnamurchan and The Rough Bounds and the surrounding areas support a diversity of habitats, encompassing upland heath and moorland, Atlantic oak woodland, alluvial forest, Caledonian pinewood, salt marsh, machair, salt and freshwater lochs, and an extensive coastline of sheltered sandy beaches and exposed rocky shores.   The area is renowned for its wildlife, and supports some of the UK’s  rarest and internationally important wildlife, including, osprey, golden eagle, sea eagle, otter, pine marten, wild cat and red squirrel, as well as a rich cetacean fauna.

The landscape is dramatic, having borne witness to intense volcanic activity, changing climates and major glaciation events, and continues to be sculptured by ice, sea and freshwater.   The area lies within the Lochaber Geopark, an internationally important region in which geology has had a major impact on the landscape, history, culture and fauna and flora.  

Moidart, Ardnamurchan and The Rough Bounds are also steeped in history, as evidenced by its historic castles and townships, monuments, and royal connections.  Bonnie Prince Charlie landed in Moidart in 1745 and raised his standard at Glenfinnan, an ill-fated uprising that eventually ended in defeat at Culloden.  The Monument and Visitors Centre at Glenfinnan and the ‘Seven Men of Moidart’ commemorate the loyalty and bravery of the clansman and friends who supported the ‘Young Pretender' in the Jacobite cause.   

This is a mystical land imbued with legends of giants, chimeric beasts, headless bodies, mermaids, phantom hounds, evil spirits, buried treasures and prophecies.  The landscape, history and culture of the region have inspired many painters, photographers and writers alike, and contributed to a diverse literary and artistic heritage.

The Western Highlands also has a rich and varied musical tradition, ranging from unaccompanied vocal singing, choirs, folk and Gaelic instrumental music to classical music.  Each year, musical festivals are hosted in the area celebrating the region’s musical heritage, including the Loch Shiel Festival,  Mod Ardnamurchan and Feis nan Garbh Chriochan, as well as traditional ceilidhs and concerts.  

Moidart and the surrounding areas of Morar and Ardgour have also provided spectacular scenic backdrops, beaches and iconic features to many films, including Local Hero, Harry Potter, Highlander, Master of Ballantrae, Kidnapped, Rob Roy and Hamish MacBeth. 

This stunning part of Scotland supports a wide range of outdoor pursuits, from the gentle to the extreme, by foot, bike, river and sea.  

Relax on silvery beaches, snorkel in clear blue seas, trek along beautiful hills and coastline, discover the wonders of the wildwood, spot rare and iconic wildlife or immerse yourself in the fates of clans and aspiring kings.   

Moidart, Ardnamurchan and The Rough Bounds are special places accessible by road, rail and sea.  Single track roads, Victorian steam railways and ferries to and from the Isles, all make travel and exploration a pleasure and adventure in itself.  Take time to enjoy the scenery, wildlife and history of the area. Above all, take time to plan your journey and make sure you do not miss the boat. 

Please use the information links and interactive maps on these pages to plan your journey around Moidart, Ardnamurchan and The Rough Bounds and make the most of your adventure in this land of legend.

Come and discover what this hidden gem in the West Highlands of Scotland can offer you.