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West Highland Hotel, Mallaig
Open Road Day
May 24
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
"The road to the Isles is calling me,
With its hills and glens and the scent of the sea;
Through the land of the Gael where the heather grows,
And the song of the lark in the morning flows."
~ Journey to the Isles, John Davidson (1857-1909)
Have you got the wanderlust today but no time? You can still armchair travel or take a journey to most any destination with the impressive set of "road" dances in the Scottish Country Dance canon, such as this cheery strathspey which requires long strides for long reels and winding chases on the "road to Mallaig"! Mallaig is a historic port town on the rugged west coast of Scotland that serves as the gateway to the Isle of Skye and the Small Isles. With its bustling harbor and stunning coastal scenery, this village offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and maritime heritage. The journey to Mallaig itself allows fabulous glimpses from the scenic West Highland Line railway, famed for its breathtaking vistas and the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct (shown below), or along the Road to the Isles, a route steeped in history and folklore. Once a thriving fishing port known for its herring industry, Mallaig is now a place where visitors can explore local seafood cuisine, embark on ferry adventures to nearby islands, and experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Road warrior dancers, enjoy the trip! 🏴 🛣️
Road to Mallaig
The village of Mallaig was founded in the 1840s when Lord Lovat, the owner of the North Morar Estate, divided up the farm of Mallaigvaig into 17 parcels of land and encouraged his tenants to move to the western part of the peninsula and turn to fishing as a way of life. The village has since grown and developed into a thriving community, with a strong focus on fishing, tourism, and local culture.
Here are some popular things to do in and around Mallaig:
Mallaig Heritage Centre: This small museum provides insight into the local history, including the fishing industry, the Highland Clearances, and the construction of the West Highland Railway.
Jacobite Steam Train: Often referred to as the Hogwarts Express, this scenic train ride from Mallaig to Fort William passes over the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct and offers stunning views.
Loch Morar: Known as the deepest freshwater loch in Europe, it's perfect for fishing, boating, and possibly spotting the legendary creature Morag.
Camusdarach Beach: Famous for its silver sands and clear waters, this beach is ideal for a relaxing walk and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Mallaig Circuit Walk: A pleasant walking route that offers great views over Mallaig Harbour and across Loch Nevis to Knoydart.
Morar Cross: Climb to this viewpoint for spectacular views of the bay. It’s located near the Mallaig Railway Station and offers a short but rewarding hike.
Western Isles Cruises: These boat tours can take you to the remote Knoydart peninsula or on wildlife safaris to see dolphins, porpoises, and seals.
Haggard Alley: A must-visit for Harry Potter fans, this shop offers official merchandise and is a popular stop for those arriving on the Jacobite Steam Train
For more information about Mallaig and Morar Highland Games and current events in the area, click the picture below!
Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!
