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Drone images show the impact of the fire at Stac Pollaidh (Image: Inverpolly Estate/Facebook) The iconic Stac Pollaidh in the Scottish Highlands, cherished for its rugged beauty and unique geological features, has recently fallen victim to a devastating wildfire. The blaze, which tore through the Inverpolly Forest and surrounding areas, has left scars not only on the landscape but also on the hearts of locals and visitors who hold this natural gem dear. The fire began on a quiet Sunday morning and, despite relentless efforts from firefighters, persisted until it was brought under control by Monday evening. Drone imagery captured by the Inverpolly Estate offers a stark visual of the scorched earth, highlighting the extent of the destruction and reminding us of the delicate balance of nature in this region. Officials believe the fire was likely caused by campers, sparking renewed calls for caution and mindfulness when exploring the great outdoors. With dry weather conditions creating an extreme risk of wildfires, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has urged everyone to avoid lighting outdoor fires or using disposable barbecues, emphasizing the responsibility we all share in protecting these precious landscapes. For Stac Pollaidh and its surroundings, recovery will take time. Yet, the incident serves as a powerful reminder of nature's vulnerability—and the importance of education, awareness, and conservation efforts to ensure its preservation. As the community rallies together to restore and protect this beloved area, it’s a moment to reflect on how we can each play our part in safeguarding Scotland's natural heritage for future generations. This fire, while tragic, also calls for collective action to prevent similar events from happening again. Let’s all cherish and protect the wild beauty of the Highlands—it’s a treasure worth defending.

As the days grow longer and the Highlands awaken from their winter slumber, Tigh na Reultan, our charming self-catering cottage in the heart of Ullapool, is ready to open its doors for another unforgettable season. Nestled just a stone's throw from the seafront, this cozy retreat is more than just a place to stay—it's a gateway to the beauty and tranquility of the Scottish Highlands. This year, we’re thrilled to welcome our first guests of the season. The cottage has been lovingly prepared to ensure every detail is perfect. Spring in Ullapool is a magical time. The village comes alive with the promise of adventure, whether it’s exploring the nearby mountains, strolling along the shores of Loch Broom, or simply enjoying the local shops and eateries. At Tigh na Reultan, we aim to provide not just a place to rest but a home base for creating memories that will last a lifetime. As we open our doors, we’re reminded of the joy that comes with sharing this special place with visitors from near and far. Whether you’re a returning guest or discovering Ullapool for the first time, we can’t wait to welcome you to Tigh na Reultan. Here’s to a season filled with laughter, adventure, and the simple pleasures of Highland life. Remember to leave us a review and let other know the places you have explored!

The Viking Vela cruise ship recently made its maiden visit to Ullapool, marking the start of the village's 2025 cruise season. This impressive vessel brought nearly 1,000 passengers to the picturesque Scottish Highlands, offering guided tours of the village and boosting local businesses. The day was made even more special with the unveiling of a brand-new welcome center at the pier, providing a warm and inviting space for visitors. Photo Credit: Ross-shire Journal 1 April 2025

The Lochbroom & Ullapool Community Trust (LUCT) is paving the way for sustainable development and energy efficiency in the Highlands. Through the Highland Energy Community Partnership (HECP), they are tackling fuel poverty, promoting renewable energy, and supporting local communities in achieving greener living. A key role in this effort is the Community Energy Officer, tasked with advising on energy efficiency, facilitating projects, and ensuring residents and businesses have access to practical solutions. This initiative underscores Ullapool's dedication to sustainability and community-led progress, ensuring a brighter and more eco-friendly future for everyone in the region.

“The Sea Starts Here: Ullapool's Drain Campaign for Cleaner Oceans” Ullapool is a village with big ambitions when it comes to preserving the natural beauty of Scotland’s west coast—and few initiatives embody this better than the Ullapool Sea Savers’ impactful “Drain Campaign.” This child-led environmental group has sparked a wave of positive change, reminding locals and visitors alike that protecting the ocean starts right beneath our feet. What is the Drain Campaign? Picture this: as rainwater flows through the drains on Ullapool’s streets, it eventually makes its way to Loch Broom and the surrounding marine ecosystems. Unfortunately, anything discarded or carelessly left near these drains—cigarette butts, plastic wrappers, or other debris—ends up polluting the very waters that are vital to the area's environment and economy. Photo Credit: Ross-shire Journal To tackle this, the Ullapool Sea Savers have launched their “Drain Campaign” with an ingenious strategy. Using biodegradable chalk spray, they stencil impactful messages like “The Sea Starts Here, Please Don’t Litter” onto the pavement by drains throughout the village. This creative approach serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder to everyone walking by that their small actions have a ripple effect on marine life. Why It Matters Marine pollution isn’t just an abstract global issue; it has direct consequences for Ullapool’s vibrant ecosystem. The group emphasizes that cigarette butts, for example, contain toxic chemicals that leach into the water, harming marine species. By raising awareness in such a visible and relatable way, the Drain Campaign helps bridge the gap between everyday habits and environmental responsibility. Global Influence The brilliance of the campaign lies in its simplicity. Its success in Ullapool has caught the attention of other communities, inspiring similar initiatives across the UK and even internationally in Portugal. It’s proof that small, local ideas can grow into global movements. How You Can Help Whether you’re a resident or just visiting Ullapool’s stunning shores, you can play a part in this effort. Dispose of your litter responsibly, say no to single-use plastics, and support local environmental groups like the Ullapool Sea Savers. Share their message far and wide—because the sea starts not just at Ullapool’s drains, but at every drain around the world. This campaign is a shining example of how creativity and community spirit can protect the places we love. What other initiatives do you think could pair well with this effort? Let’s brainstorm ideas to keep Ullapool thriving!

The Highland Visitor Levy is a proposed initiative to manage the impact of tourism on the Highlands' infrastructure and services. It involves charging visitors staying in overnight accommodations an additional fee. The revenue generated from this levy, estimated to be between £5 million and £10 million annually, will be reinvested into the local community to maintain and improve facilities, ensuring a high-quality experience for both visitors and residents. This initiative aims to address the pressures of increased visitor numbers and support sustainable tourism in the region. Tigh na Reultan Holiday Cottage, Self Catering Accommodation in Ullapool

Ru Mac, is from our lovely village of Ullapool, he had recently dazzled audiences on Britain's Got Talent. Known for his electrifying accordion performances, Ru Mac seamlessly blends traditional Scottish music with modern rhythms, creating a unique and captivating sound. His energetic stage presence and musical talent have quickly earned him a dedicated fan base, making him a standout contestant in this year's competition. Tigh na Reultan Holiday Cottage, Self Catering Accommodation in Ullapool

Ullapool is buzzing with excitement as the highly-anticipated Rhidorroch Distillery gin bar announces its opening date. Located on Shore Street, this new addition to the village promises to be a delightful spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy. Tigh na Reultan Holiday Cottage, Self Catering Accommodation in Ullapool Photo Credit: Northern Times - 6 March 25

A major milestone for Ullapool is the Scottish Wildlife Trust's recent acquisition of the Inverbroom Estate, a vast 7,600-hectare area just south of the village. This £17.5 million purchase, made possible by a generous private donation, marks a significant step forward in conservation. The Trust aims to revitalize the estate by restoring its natural habitats, including woodlands and peatlands, and promoting eco-friendly farming practices. Beyond benefiting wildlife and addressing climate challenges, the project is also focused on involving the local community in the estate's transformation. Tigh na Reultan Holiday Cottage, Self Catering Accommodation in Ullapool Image Credits: BBC News, 3 March 2025

Ullapool Bookshop has recently been shortlisted for the prestigious Independent Bookshop of the Year title at the British Book Awards. (Ross-shire Journal 18 Feb 25). This recognition highlights the shop's significant role in the community, bringing books and literary events to the heart of Ullapool. The bookshop has been a cornerstone of the Ullapool Book Festival and has actively participated in World Book Day events, making it a beloved cultural hub for locals and visitors alike.