Ullapool, Scotland

 

About noon we arrived in Ullapool, Scotland for a 6 hour visit.The tiny town of 1,600 residents is on the shores of Loch Broom and enjoys one of the most remote settings in the United Kingdom. Surrounding it are dramatic mountain peaks piercing the sky. It took less than an hour to "walk the town", then we spent time meeting and enjoying its honest, friendly people.  The arrival of our ship nearly doubled the towns population during the afternoon. 

Our ship's visit was a big deal for this small community.  They went out of their way to showcase their town.  A 15-year old, bagpiper met us at the dock.  The 200 students in his school come from as far away as 40 miles. 

At the elementary school we noticed both Scottish and English signage.  All classes are taught in both languages.  The school's rooftop is fitted with solar panels.  Scotland has a national goal of being energy independent by 2025!

Even though it was Sunday afternoon, most of the towns restaurants, pubs and stores were open for business.

On Main Street a young girl played the violin.  The sign in front of her read, "My name is Amelie. Please help me to raise money so I can go to university and study environmental science in a few years."

One young couple was enjoying fish n chips lunch on this cool, but partially sunny afternoon.  Their dog was hoping to join in.

It was a nice day to drive dad's car into town -- until she locked the keys inside.  Don't worry, three heroes to the rescue.

I can almost hear this conversation: "Cameron, wouldn't ya like to sail around the world in a ship like that?"  "Aw, I think its a wee bit big.  Probably cost too much!"