The bustling fishing port of Mallaig is situated on the north west coast at the end of the famous ‘Road to the Isles’.

The town is a realtive newbie by Highland standards dating back to 1841, but it was the arrival of the railway in 1901 that accelerated the town’s growth. By the 1930’s a new car ferry to Skye meant that Mallaig was no longer just a destination, but also a favourable route to The Isle of Skye.

In the 1960s Mallaig was the busiest herring port in Europe but by the 1970’s overfishing had lead to strict quotas and the industry went into decline. The future of the railway was also in doubt as fish stock could easily be transferred by road at a time of railway rationalisation across the Uk.

In recent years tourism has become Mallaigs main industry but a small working fishing harbour remains in the town. Because of its remote location, it makes for a peaceful place to relax and take in the stunning views from the harbourside. Walk the Mallaig Circuit for breathtaking views over Mallaig harbour and Loch Nevis to Knoydart.

Mallaig’s strategic location makes it a great base for exploring Skye and the surrounding area. Throughout the year, the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry runs scheduled services between Mallaig and the island.

During the summer Mallaig is the twice-daily destination of The Jacboite Express. This famous steam train (featured in Harry Potter movies) follows the famous Road to the Isles and stops at Glenfinnan Station en route from Fort William.