Lochaber

Lochaber is a historic and geographic region in the western Scottish Highlands. It lies largely within the Highland council area and forms part of the traditional county of Inverness-shire. The area extends from Fort William and the surrounding glens in the east to the Ardnamurchan peninsula and the coastal communities around Mallaig and Morar in the west, including the sea lochs along Loch Linnhe. The eastern boundary is broadly marked by the Great Glen, while the interior is mostly mountainous and sparsely populated.

Topographically, Lochaber is dominated by Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak, near Fort William, and by the Mamore range and other uplands such as the Grey Corries. Glens such as Glen Spean cut through the interior, and the area contains a mix of sea lochs, forests, and open moorland.

Fort William is the region’s largest town, with other settlements including Kinlochleven, Mallaig, Morar, Arisaig, and the Ardnamurchan communities. The Road to the Isles, the A830, links Fort William with Mallaig, while the Corran Ferry crosses Loch Linnhe to Ardgour. The West Highland Line railway connects Fort William with Mallaig and broader Highland networks.

Historically, Lochaber is associated with Clan Cameron and Inverlochy Castle, and it played a role in the Jacobite uprisings of the 18th century. Gaelic culture and language have been prominent in the region. Today Lochaber’s economy centers on tourism and outdoor recreation, supported by forestry, crofting, and rural enterprise.