Things to do in Ullapool and around Lochbroom
Ullapool is a small village on Loch Broom, on the west coast of the Highlands. For its size, it is well served, with a harbour, marina, ferry, shops, places to eat, music, galleries and a strong local culture.
It is also a useful base for exploring the north-west Highlands. From Ullapool, guests can discover Loch Broom, Dundonnell, Assynt, Coigach, the Summer Isles and the wider north west coast, while still having the comfort and convenience of a well-connected village close by.
Corylus sits elevated above Ullapool, looking out across the loch. From here, guests can spend time in the village, walk from the door, visit nearby beaches, take a boat trip, or explore further along the north-west coast.
This guide is a starting point. Guests staying at Corylus also have access to our full digital guide, with more local recommendations, practical details and our own knowledge of the area.
Ullapool village
Ullapool is easy to explore. You can walk along the promenade, get coffee or lunch, visit the shops and galleries, and spend time by the water on the pebble beaches.
The village has useful everyday facilities, including food shops, a reasonably sized supermarket, cafés, restaurants, takeaways, a leisure centre and swimming pool, and Ullapool Museum.
Loch Broom
Loch Broom is a big part of staying at Corylus. The view changes through the day with the weather, tide and light.
From the covered deck at Corylus, you can look out over the water and hills, watch boats and wildlife pass by with the binoculars we provide, or just sit and relax in the sheltered, south-facing space. There are also several options for boat trips that explore Loch Broom and the Summer Isles. Ullapool is also the ferry port for Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis.
Food and places to eat
Ullapool has a good choice of places to eat for a village of its size. There are cafés, pubs, seafood options, takeaways and hotel restaurants. It is possible to find everything you need for a longer stay in Ullapool, but you can also arrange supermarket deliveries to Corylus. Guests staying at Corylus are supplied with a full digital guide, including our own local recommendations.
Some places to eat or drink in Ullapool:
The Seafood Shack
Cult Cafe
Oak & Grain
Opening times change through the year, so check before you go and book ahead where needed.
Walks from Corylus
There are walks from Corylus along quiet roads, tracks and hillsides. Many have open views over Loch Broom.
These walks are good for days when you want to stay close to home and combine well with visiting Ullapool. There are several options for circular routes that pass through the village. We recommend suitable footwear, as the ground can be wet and the weather can change quickly in the Highlands.
Walks and viewpoints near Ullapool
Ullapool Hill is one of the easiest local walks to reach. It gives a fantastic view over the village, harbour and Loch Broom. It is a special place to visit for sunrise, sunset or the northern lights.
Rhue Lighthouse, Ardmair and other nearby viewpoints are also great for short outings. Ardmair is a good place for a sunset stroll, sea swim or catching the aurora borealis. Rhue is also a special place to watch the sun go down, head for a dip or take a refreshing shorter walk on a wilder day.
For longer walks, the nearby areas around Dundonnell, Coigach and Assynt, and the wider north-west Highlands, have a huge number of options. These include everything from easy trails to challenging Munro mountains.
Just a few options:
Notable smaller mountains such as Stac Pollaidh, Cùl Mòr or Suilven
Well knows Munros such as An Teallach, the Fannichs and Beinn Dearg
Friendly woodland and river trails at Lael or Culag Woods
Corrieshalloch Gorge
Corrieshalloch Gorge is a short trip from Ullapool. This popular attraction has a visitor centre, paths, viewing areas and the impressive Falls of Measach.
For any hill walk, check the forecast, take the right clothing and be ready to change plans.
Beaches near Ullapool
There are many beaches and dramatic shorelines within reach of Ullapool.
Just some places to consider include:
Beautiful, clean pebble beaches at Rhue and Ardmair
Outstanding sandy beaches at Achnahaird, Clachtoll, Achmelvich, Oldshoremore and Gruinard Bay
Remote and harder-to-reach, but exceptional places, like Sandwood Bay
Culture, galleries and music
Ullapool has galleries and venues that show local artists, live music, local events and performances. There are also local arts and crafts shops and excellent local bookshops. Ullapool hosts several cultural and creative events and festivals, including Fèis Rois, Ullapool Guitar Festival and Lugger Fest.
Some examples include:
Ullapool Bookshop
What is on changes through the year, so it is worth checking local listings during your stay.
Corylus as your base
Corylus is ideal as a base for exploring the wider area. It is near the services and amenities that make a holiday easier, and it offers everything you need to relax and enjoy time between exploring. Our well thought-out porch areas offer storage for wet boots, jackets and outdoor gear. There is a safe covered space in the undercroft for bikes, canoes and larger outdoor equipment. Both apartments have washing machines and covered drying space for longer stays.
This online guide is only a first introduction. Guests staying with us have access to our full digital guide, with more detailed recommendations, local notes and practical information. As keen outdoors people, your hosts can offer local knowledge on walking, mountaineering and watersports.
Slower days
Not every day needs to be full. Corylus is perfect for a slower, restful stay. The views from the living spaces and bedrooms offer continually shifting and inexhaustible entertainment, and it is easily possible to spend a stay just relaxing and looking after yourself in peace and comfort. Reading in bed, coffee on the deck, cooking good food, early nights and good sleep.
The weather is part of the experience here. Some days, less is more, and staying home and resting is the best thing to do.
Practical notes
Check opening times before travelling.
Book restaurants, ferries and boat trips ahead where possible.
Bring waterproofs and warm layers.
Wear suitable footwear for walks and beaches. Bring indoor shoes if you like, as Corylus is a shoe-free indoor space.
Leave room for weather and slower days.