The Morar Hotel, Mallaig – 115 years of Heritage in the Highland, Scotland

Activities

Morar’s location makes it a fantastic hub for exploring the western edge of Scotland. Despite its rural setting, Morar has excellent ferry links to the Hebridean Isles and the regular train service to the tourist town of Fort William means you can venture as far afield as you like.

With the rolling countryside on Morar’s doorstep, there is a lot for visitors to do in the area. Whether you like walking, shopping, exploring or are looking for something sporty to do, there is something nearby!

Morar and Mallaig have a selection of events on throughout the year too; including the Highland Games; where you can get a real sense of true Scottish sports and craft fairs where you can buy some handcrafted souvenirs to take home.

Located just 40 minutes from Fort William, the outdoor capital of Scotland, there are plenty of activities readily available close by throughout the year.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

CRUISE TO THE SMALL ISLES

Mallaig Ferry Terminal operates regular cruises to Knoydart Peninsula and the other small Isles of Eigg, Rum and Muck which you can easily explore in a day! Boats also operate to the small town of Armadale on the Isle of Skye where you can go on a sea safari and spot whales or dolphins.

FISHING

With both salmon and large ferox trout, Loch Morar offers a range of fishing to visitors including fishing from the banks or fly fishing from boats. Guided fishing service is also available and boats can be hired for full or half days to accommodate your needs

GOLF

Situated approximately 10 minutes away from Morar is Traigh Golf Course on the outskirts of Arisaig. The course is one of the most beautiful in Scotland, with white sandy beaches running alongside and breathtaking views to the Hebridean islands of Eigg and Rum. The 9 hole course offers something for all levels of golfer and offers all the traditional challenges of a classic seaside links. Visitors are welcome and it is not normally necessary to book.
The club house is open from the beginning of April to the end of October.

LOCAL WILDLIFE

Due to the wonderful location of Morar, lots of wildlife can be easily spotted throughout the year. When the fishing boats arrive back at the docks, locals can usually see families of seals cheekily looking for some fishy treats from the fisherman landing their catch.

Local boat safaris in the area offer visitors the chance to spot dolphins in their natural habitat as well as seals on the beaches.

THE JACOBITE STEAM TRAIN

Travelling from Fort William to Mallaig, The Jacobite Steam Train is described as being one of the greatest railway journeys in the world. The Jacobite, which provided the steam train and carriages used as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter blockbusters, will take you on an 84 mile round trip past lots of impressive scenery. The journey takes you to the base of the highest mountain in the UK, Ben Nevis, passes close by the deepest freshwater loch in Britain as well as the short river before arriving at the deepest seawater loch in Europe. Depending on what time of year you visit there are various departure times. This is one journey which is not to be missed!

SHOOTING

Due to the rough surrounding terrain, shooting of game birds and deer stalking is practised in the local area. There are local estates that organise shooting parties which must be arranged in advance. Ask our staff who have a wealth of local knowledge for more details.

WALKING

The surrounding area of Morar is a haven for all walkers with an array of routes right on the doorstep. Local ranger, Angus MacIntyre produced a booklet of 15 walking routes in the area, including maps and full route descriptions which are available from a variety of local shops for a nominal charge. There is a walk for everyone, whether it is along the white sandy beaches or a tougher route or a full day trek. If you don’t fancy adventuring around the area alone, the local Ranger offers guided walks between May and September which must be booked in advance.

SEA-KAYAK

A few miles south of Morar in Arisaig, the Kayak Centre have both sea kayaks and Canadian canoes (open boats) available to hire for half days, full days, multi-days or even a week. With some of the most beautiful scenery in the World, the large coastline offers numerous places to paddle to and explore including secluded beaches. If you want a bit more of a relaxed paddle then venture to Loch Morar, the deepest freshwater Loch in the UK. Once you’re all paddled out, head to Britain’s remotest pub – The Old Forge, Inverie, Knoydart for a well-deserved rest. Guided tours are also available if you want an expert with great local knowledge.