The Road to the Isles
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The Caledonian MacBrayne ferry leaving Mallaig and crossing Loch Nevis
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The Jacobite steam train passing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct at the head of Loch Shiel, Lochaber
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Loch Morar, south of Mallaig, the Highlands
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The pier in Mallaig, the Highlands
The Road to the Isles is a route that stretches from the base of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis in Fort William, to the bustling port town of Mallaig, and is one of the country’s most beautiful stretches of land.
Steeped in history, romance and wildlife, the Road to the Isles incorporates striking hill scenery with stunning beaches, some of which have been immortalised on the silver screen.
Explore the area around Glenfinnan where Bonnie Prince Charlie famously raised his standard in 1745, which involved raising the flag of his family, the Stuarts, and a call to arms for local clan chiefs to support the restoration of the Stuarts to the British throne. There is also a great variety of popular walks including the climb from Arisaig to Scamadale. Stroll along the shores of Loch Morar which, at 310 m, is the deepest expanse of freshwater in Europe.
Familiar to fans of the film Local Hero, the exquisite Camusdarach beach between Arisaig and Morar offers the perfect place to escape. Why not stop off here and take in the beauty of the landscape which extends to the Small Isles?
This fascinating route does not just have to be explored by road. During the summer months, the Jacobite steam train runs daily services connecting Fort William with Mallaig. The Jacobite provides a glorious 84-mile round trip, and takes in the Caledonian Canal and glorious coastline of Arisaig and Morar. The Glenfinnan Viaduct section has been made famous the world over by the Harry Potter series of films.
From Mallaig, hop on a ferry to explore Skye and the Small Isles of Muck, Rum, Eigg and Canna with their distinct characters and welcoming communities.
Visit this unspoilt landscape which promises to leave you inspired and refreshed.
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