Bye bye Barra, hello Mallaig 22 May 2025

 

Kisimul Castle, Castlebay.  Currently closed for conservation works.  The castle was the seat of the Macneils of Barra, who settled on the island in the 11th century.  The Macneils claimed Irish descent from the legendary Niall of the Nine Hostages, high king of Ireland in the 5th century and great-grandfather of St Columba.
The castle has kept us company throughout our short stay on Barra. Quite reassuring.

With the weather due to break this weekend (it’s Thursday today) we felt that we needed to get back to the Inner Hebrides from the Outer Hebrides, otherwise we could get stuck out there (the first Whisky Galore film which was filmed on Barra was delayed by 10 weeks due to weather!). So, at 10.00ish we left Castlebay and headed for Mallaig (actually on the mainland).

It was a 6 hour crossing all in brilliant weather.  The first half was a little lumpy (despite being really calm) and the second half was just really calm.  At one point a group of jumpy dolphins was spotted in the distance, but they didn’t come and play.  So the only thing to break the monotony was the scenery - distant views of Skye, Muck, Eigg, Canna and close-ups of Rum.

The bulk of Rum was foreboding and beautiful.

Arrived in Mallaig at 16.00 and have paid for 4 nights - more than we really want but the weather is likely to keep us here for a while.

After a shower I have donned a clean pair of socks with a local theme. Och aye! 
Thanks Ali.

The boat bird list is just 20 species.

Our route:












































































































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