The Area

Ullapool

Ullapool is a charming fishing village nestled on the shores of Loch Broom in the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Renowned as the gateway to the North Coast 500, it offers harbourside cafés, artisan shops and traditional pubs hosting lively ceilidhs. Surrounded by rugged hills and sea lochs, it combines authentic Highland character with modern comforts and a warm community welcome.

Coffee lovers and foodies alike will delight in Ullapool’s café culture and fresh‑catch offerings. Start your day with a barista‑crafted latte and home‑baked treats at one of the cosy cafés, then sample the finest local seafood at award‑winning eateries. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste locally caught seafood, with ever‑changing daily specials of mussels, oysters and fresh fish served straight from the harbour.

Outdoor enthusiasts can tackle the Ullapool Hill walk for panoramic views, join boat tours and wildlife cruises from the harbour, or try sea kayaking along the coast. Fishing trips, guided hill walks and scenic drives into the nearby mountains all start from this versatile base.

For lovers of arts and culture, Ullapool boasts a local arts centre, which hosts exhibitions, workshops and live performances throughout the year. Local galleries showcase Highland painters and craftsmen, while monthly craft markets and events such as a book festival and traditional music sessions bring the village’s creativity to life.

Recommended

Places To Visit

The area surrounding Ullapool is rich in natural beauty and well worth exploring. Just a short drive south lies Corrieshalloch Gorge, a dramatic mile-long canyon with a spectacular waterfall and a suspension bridge offering breathtaking views. To the north, Ardmair Bay is a peaceful spot popular for paddleboarding, beach walks, and sunsets over the Summer Isles. A little further on, Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve reveals the fascinating story of Scotland’s ancient geology through interactive trails and striking rock formations. For adventurous hikers, the iconic peak of Stac Pollaidh offers a relatively short but rewarding climb, with panoramic views over Assynt’s wild and rugged landscape.