Scotland – Part 3 ….. Morar, a true “Local Hero” of mine.

Scotland – Part 3 ….. Morar, a true “Local Hero” of mine.

By alan frost on October 30, 2023

From the moment I stepped onto the sands I knew that I had arrived at a magical place and I was instantly reminded of one of my all time favourite films, namely ‘Local Hero’. For this was one of the principal locations for the film and as I explored the dunes, the rocks and the beaches I could hear in my mind the wonderful film score composed by Mark Knopfler. The clouds, the light and the beauty which surrounded me, was really very special. As I have just said a magical place.

To identify the exact location I have included a couple of maps. The first map shows Mallaig at the end of the A380, a road I have travelled on a number of occasions on my way to the ferry at Mallaig, the so called gateway to the isles, including of course the Isle of Skye.

The second map clearly shows the village of Morar which lies to the south of Mallaig. Opposite the village lie the silver sands of Morar and the river estuary. A walk along the sands at low tide presents many fine scenes to be captured.

**Silver Sands of Morar with the Isle of Rum in the far distance**

**A lone house on the other side of the estuary**

Taking the coast road immediately to the south of the river and you soon arrive at Glenancross. A small car park and footpath leads down to Camusdarach beach – the film location, and what a location it is.

What now follows are a series of images of Camusdarach beach, an area not to be missed. The Isles of Egg and Rum are often visible on the horizon.

And finally if you have time and are interested, an excellent film on the making of Local Hero.

A 50 minute film on the making of Local Hero made in 1983 by The South Bank Show

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post. I know I have enjoyed looking back to a very special time in Scotland. I trust it won’t be too long before we can return.

(Footnote – I had intended posting this entry months ago but it never happened and for that I apologise. In fact a year has passed since my wife and I were staying at Morar. This year for various reasons our travels have been somewhat inhibited and as a consequence my photography has taken a back seat. However the break has been good and I am now inspired and motivated to visit new places and make new images).