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The village formed on the shores of Loch Broom in the northwest Highlands of Scotland. Archaeological evidence suggests Vikings settled here and established farms. They used the native soapstone to craft tools and household items. Along the shoreline of the Loch, the remains of ancient Iron Age forts represent primitive cultures exhibiting defensive measures against outside attack. During this time, Romans invaded and controlled much of the territory.
Later, during peaceful times, Bronze and Iron Age people lived in small, circular huts, arranged in a community or small village. According to explorer Timothy Pont, Ullapool existed in 1596. The medieval civilizations also formed small townships, farming and grazing the land. Harsh economical and environmental conditions contributed to the decline of the hamlets, leaving behind traces of existence as evidenced by early housing developments.
Modern day Ullapool emerged in 1788 as a small herring fishing port. Engineer Thomas Telford created the town’s main street design. Farms also formed on the lands. Along with tending crops, farmers raised livestock, which continue grazing on the open fields of the Highlands. Scandinavian cargo ships pulled into port, purchasing herring and sold the product in various parts of Norway, the Canary Islands and Africa. Some Norwegians lived in the area, buying and icing the fish until the cargo ships arrived.
The crews required by the Norwegians for herring processing often increased the local population by around 400 people. Herring populations rose and declined and by the 1970s, fishermen resorted to catching mackerel. Word soon spread of the abundant mackerel populations and fishermen from all over the world arrived in hopes of taking advantage of the boom. Today, only about one dozen local fishing boats remain. Now, the popular catch of the day consists of nephrops, also known as Norwegian lobsters or prawns.
Activities and Attractions
The Ullapool Museum and Visitor Centre, housed in a former church, offers a look at the local community over many generations. Artefacts, photographs and other relics describe the daily lifestyles of the people and the fishing industry. See models of typical ships used throughout the centuries. Learn about the times of war and the German prisoners housed in the area. Hear about the fate of fisherman who lost their lives at sea. Imagine life in Ullapool during medieval and more modern times based on accounts of actual former citizens. An audio/visual display provides an interesting look into the people of the loch.
Walk along the scenic coast and climb the hills surrounding the loch. Take a cruise on one of the local vessels that transports passengers to the nearby Summer Isle. The Isle is one of the last places that printed stamps locally. Enjoy the picturesque coast and see the native wildlife that includes a number of sea birds, seals and playful pods of dolphins.
Scale the summit of Stac Pollaidh. The mountain has a definite trail path to the top, but some may prefer using climbing equipment to scale the summit’s face.
Venture south and travel through beautiful wooded areas, finally arriving at Corrishalloch Gorge. Cross the vast suspension bridge and witness the majestic power of the Measach Falls. Dropping 150 feet (45.7 metres) to the gorge below, the falls are an amazing site.
Places to Stay and Dining
Visitors have the option of staying at quaint inns along the quay or facilities located further up from the harbour. Besides comfortable, modern accommodations, facilities also provide the opportunity to enjoy local live entertainment hosted by the inn pub.
Guests enjoy traditional food and a touch of Italian cuisine at the local Frigate Restaurant and Bar. Try hot smoked salmon carbonara made with fresh salmon flakes, pasta and creamy garlic wine sauce. Guests not having a ravenous appetite might choose to dine on a number of freshly prepared salads.
Accommodation in Ullapool
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