Aultbea

Settlement in Ross-shire

Scotland

Aultbea

Moorland on Druim Breac Fairly rough stuff between here and the forestry. Beinn Ghobhlach is the peak in the distance. — Moorland on Druim Breac Credit: Nigel Brown

Aultbea is a small village located in the administrative county of Ross-shire, Scotland. Situated on the northwestern coast of the Scottish Highlands, it lies on the shores of Loch Ewe, a sea loch known for its stunning beauty and rich history.

With a population of around 300 people, Aultbea is a close-knit community that offers a peaceful and idyllic lifestyle. The village is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, rugged mountains, and the sparkling waters of the loch. The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make Aultbea a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The village is well-connected to nearby towns and cities, with the A832 road providing easy access to the wider region. Despite its small size, Aultbea boasts a range of amenities, including a post office, a convenience store, a cafe, and a pub, ensuring residents have access to essential services.

Aultbea has a rich maritime heritage, which is evident in its historic buildings and landmarks. During World War II, Loch Ewe served as a vital naval base, and remnants of this era can still be seen today, including the impressive Inverewe Gardens, which were established as a naval fuel depot during the war.

Overall, Aultbea offers a peaceful and scenic retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life amidst the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

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Aultbea Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 57.839242/-5.580579 or Grid Reference NG8788. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Moorland on Druim Breac

Fairly rough stuff between here and the forestry. Beinn Ghobhlach is the peak in the distance.

Nigel Brown

Moorland around the FÃ¨ith BhÃ n

Very flat, and probably very damp, moorland around the stream. Beinn Dearg Mhòr is the prominence in the distance; as hills of that name go (Big Red Hill), this is probably fairly feeble.

Nigel Brown

Road following loch side toward Aultbea

Martin Dawes

Road beside Loch Ewe entering Ormiscaig

Looking north-westward.

Peter Wood

Coastline by Bualnaluib

Small coastal crofting community.

Jennifer Jones

Bog, bog and more bog

There's nothing else to say about this square.

Jennifer Jones

Sea shore near Ormiscaig

With some of the houses of Ormiscaig beyond.

Nigel Brown

Loch Ewe viewpoint

The information board describes the importance of Loch Ewe as a base for the Arctic convoys that supplied Russia during WW2. Merchant ships and their Naval escorts would assemble in the loch before the hazardous voyage north. The loch is still used a NATO ship refuelling point at the pier below. The Isle of Ewe is in the background.

Jim Barton

Ship at the fuelling jetty, Loch Ewe

A ship at the NATO refuelling jetty with the Isle of Ewe beyond.

Jim Barton

Russian Arctic Convoy Exhibition, Aultbea

A comprehensive collection of photographs, memorabilia and artefacts from the WW2 supply convoys that assembled in Loch Ewe prior to their journey to northern Russian ports. See also NG8787 : Loch Ewe viewpoint.

Jim Barton

Aultbea and Loch Ewe

Jim Barton

Aultbea foreshore

The cream-coloured building on the left is the Aultbea Hall, now closed.

Jim Barton

Aultbea Stores

Well-stocked village shop on the shores of Loch Ewe.

Jim Barton

Coastal road at Aultbea

The road connects Mellon Charles with Aultbea and the A832.

Jim Barton

Pier at Aird Point, Aultbea

Jim Barton

Aultbea Hall

A former community hall - we were told locally that the building was now unserviceable and that plans were in hand to use a church hall at the south end of the village.

Jim Barton