The Loopallu festival enjoyed its first year of life, laughter and music in 2007, and has since enjoyed the status of being an attractive and intimate but quirky festival that attracts top acts such as Franz Ferdinand, The Lightning Seeds and The View, as well as local bands and lesser known artists.
The popular festival takes place in Ullapool, a seaside village on the north west stretch of Scotland. Far removed from large cities, the destination requires some travel dedication, though car-shares are urged to save on the headache of traffic in such a cosy area! The trek is worth it.
The festival is set in one of the most beautiful spots in the UK, with stunning views and breathtaking scenery. There is a great selection of places to eat and drink, as well as some excellent places to stay if you decide that camping and sleeping in a tent is not for you! The Seaforth – a pub by the pier that overlooks the harbour – is an award-winning seafood pub, which enjoys an excellent reputation. Publican Seafood Pub of the Year, and BBC Radio 4 Take Away of the Year are just two of their accolades, so if you’d like to re-charge your batteries after some dancing and revelling, this is a top option.
Other things to do in the area if you fancy a short break from the excitable crowd are hiking through the scenic routes, and taking a wildlife cruise to see dolphins and seals, and many sea birds. However, staying in the village throughout the festival - and even beyond - is also a desirable option. The festival itself is held on the Broomfield Campsite, which is right next to Loch Broom. Within the grounds is a small but varied selection of good food, including BBQ salmon burgers, pint pots of local fresh prawns, Stoats porridge, kebabs and homemade soup, all at very reasonable prices. Drinks, also, are very reasonably priced.
Why not check out Scotland-BedandBreakfasts.com for more information on hotels, B&Bs and inns.