There is an abundance of things to see and do in the area around Arisaig and our lodges. Here we have listed just a fraction of the activities you might choose to undertake. They are in no particular order and if hiking the hills or swimming in the open waters seems like a bit too much effort then simply sit back and enjoy the wonderful views from our coastal location.
Glenfinnan – Monument and Viaduct
You’ll likely pass the monument and viaduct on your way to the lodges but reserve some time during your stay to visit the site properly. The monument was erected in tribute to the Jacobites that fought and died in their attempt to reinstate ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ on the throne. There is a visitors centre and cafe (managed by the National Trust) with a small museum where you can learn the history of the Jacobite Rebellion. You can climb the hill behind the visitors centre and take in the views of Loch Shiel as well as the world famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. Time it right and you might even see the Jacobite Steam train as it crosses the viaduct which was made famous in the Harry Potter films as the Hogwarts Express make its way to the fabled school of Witchcraft and Wizardry!
The Jacobite Steam Train
None of us can fail to be impressed by the majesty and nostalgia of a real train in full steam! An eighty-four mile round trip between Mallaig and Fort William on a Jacobite steam engine is the ideal way to combine the first class scenery on the route with the shopping opportunity at your destination to buy those treasured momentos. Check times and prices with West Coast Railways at www.westcoastrailways.co.uk or book tickets over the telephone on 0844 850 4685.
Golf
Located on the coast between Morar and Arisaig with stunning views to the Hebridean islands of Eigg and Rum, and the Cuillins of Skye, Traigh Golf Course (pronounced ‘try’) offers a 9 hole course open to visitors. The whole family is catered for as golfers at all levels will enjoy the course, while those who don’t play can enjoy the beaches just yards away. Much more information about this excellent course, including prices, can be found at www.traighgolf.co.uk, or by telephoning 01687 450 337
Walking and Rambling
With the finest scenery at your doorstep, you don’t even need the car or public transport to start your short walk before breakfast or your full days trekking. The lochs, bays and beaches are all accessible by foot from our lodge site. If you fancy going further afield, there are many signposted routes and walks with convenient parking.
You can find more details about the walks around Loch Morar at www.lochmorar.org.uk
Sea Kayaking
The ‘Sound of Arisaig’ is a world renowned location for sea kayaking. The many islands and rocky outcrops provide a natural barrier to the tidal flow, meaning that even novices can feel comfortable in the waters around the area. Join a trip with the Sea Kayak Centre in Arisaig and you will see some of the most spectacular beaches in Scotland! They offer something for everyone with half day trips for novices and families (children as young as 6 years old) to courses and expeditions for the seasoned expert. Full details at www.arisaigseakayakcentre.co.uk
Boat Trips and Sea Life
If you don’t encounter the seals when you’re out in your kayak, there’s still a good chance you’ll see them if you take a long walk along the shore line. With crystal clear water all around, you can, if you are lucky, sometimes see otters and dolphins. To see these fascinating creatures up close take a boat trip from Mallaig or Arisaig. Some of the sailings dock at the neighbouring islands:
- Eigg, Rum and Muck
These islands that you can see from the local beaches are all accessible by boat from Arisaig. You can choose day trips seven days a week and spend from 2 to 5 hours ashore to explore and observe the rich variety of flora and fauna.
- Isle of Skye
This larger island is well worth a trip from Mallaig. As a foot passenger or with your car, there is much to see and do on Skye. For more information on Skye and ferry trips, check out Caledonian MacBrayne (known locally as ‘CalMac’).
- Loch Morar
Virtually on your doorstep, why not explore Loch Morar itself or one of the tiny islands within it.
For more information about boat trips visit:
www.arisaig.co.uk/2018/01/2017-sheerwater-sailings/
www.calmac.co.uk/article/2982/Skye-Mallaig—Armadale
Or call Loch Morar Boat Hire on 01687 462520
The Local Beaches
You cannot visit the area without taking in the string of beautiful beaches between Arisaig and Morar Bay. The whole coastline is accessible from the road and you can virtually walk the entire length on the water side if you are prepared to clamber over a few rock pools and risk getting wet feet! Camusdarach Beach featured in the Scottish cult movie hit, Local Hero, the kids will love clambering over and jumping between the massive dunes which run in a full crescent around the beach.
Visit Morar Bay at low tide on a sunny day and you could be forgiven for thinking that you had been magically transported to the Caribbean. The water is crystal clear, the sand pure white and there is a dramatic under water shelf where the shallow sandy bay drops off creating a magical two tone stretch of water with the Cuillin Hills on Skye as the backdrop.
Birdwatching
There is much to keep the ‘twitchers’ happy: sea eagles, buzzards, sparrow hawks and herons all frequent the local area, as well as a wide variety of ducks, swans and geese. Even when you’re relaxing indoors or on the verandah, you can enjoy watching the antics of the more common birds feeding in the garden and fields..
Fishing
With Loch Morar on the doorstep you have the option of fresh water fishing or you can take to the open sea for a completely different experience. To fish Morar you will need a permit which can be obtained from one of three locations:
- Loch Superintendent, Allt an Loin, Morar. Tel: 01687 462388 or 07787431962
- Loch Morar Boat Hire, Morar. Tel: 01687 462520
- Morar Motors (mon – fri), Morar. Tel: 01687 462118
More information on the loch can be found at www.lochmorar.org.uk
Photography and Painting
The ever changing light and weather, from glorious sun-drenched blue skies to moody and awe-inspiring cloudscapes, give the photographer and artist a limitless backdrop on which to hone their skills. Whether you prefer to trek for miles, or find somewhere a few yards from the road, the surrounding area will satisfy everyone.