Ullapool is an attractive small town in a stunning location on the eastern shores of Loch Broom in Wester Ross, surrounded by dramatic mountains.
Ullapool is a good example of a planned town. It was founded in its current form in 1788 by the British Fisheries Society as a herring port (although a smaller fishing station was established a century earlier). The 1788 foundation saw the creation of the current grid of streets and the dock. The town was designed by Thomas Telford, who also designed a number of the town's buildings.
The town now faces south-east, into Loch Broom and away from the Atlantic, with the main streets running parallel to the harbour. The ferry to Stornoway and the Western Isles sails from Ullapool, and rather dominates when in port! The south-east facing port means that the ferry has to sail past the town and turn in the loch, an impressive sight in its own right. The port is also used by a number of smaller boats.
It's a sign of just how empty this part of Scotland is that Ullapool's 1,300 population makes it the largest town in Wester Ross. There is a good selection of shops (including good new and second hand bookshops), restaurants and places to stay - the YHA is in a great location on the water front.
The view from the town is dominated by Loch Broom and the mountains to the south-east, but a short climb out of the town brings the south-eastern face of Ben Mor Coigach into view. Stac Pollaidh, one of the best short climbs in the country is also within easy driving distance and well worth the trip.