Steam train going over Glenfinnan Viaduct

Mallaig

Head for Fort William and then onto the A830 for the scenic drive along the Road to the Isles.

First point of interest is Glenfinnan where you can see the monument to commemorate where Bonny Price Charlie raised the Jacobite standard and rallied his clansmen for battle in 1745. This is now owned by the National Trust and the centre is open April to October, although there is access to the base of the monument and shore all year round.

Also at Glenfinnan is the viaduct made more famous by the Harry Potter books. Look out for the Jacobite steam train along the route and watch out for mad photographers who stop and leap out of their cars at key photographic points, hoping that the train will put out a puff of smoke.

A cruise on Loch Shiel can also be taken here with a chance to spot golden eagles, red deer and black throated divers.

A stop at Arisaig and Morar along the way to see the lovely white sands is well worth while. Fans of the film Local Hero may recognise the beach at Camusdarach.

From Mallaig you can take a ferry to Skye, Canna, Eigg, Muck and Rum.

Returning you may wish to take the A861 at Lochailort and drive through the beautiful areas of Moidart, Sunart and Ardgour and take the Corran Ferry (check for last ferry times) across Loch Linnhe and then just a few miles back to Ballachulish.