Scotland Orkney & the Outer Hebrides Tour – Day Four, Northern Scotland Scenery

Aug 15, 2023 | Historical Building, Nature Scene, Scotland

Scotland Tour on day four was driving the northernmost coast of Scotland and to the town of Ullapool.

Italian Chapel: Lamb Holm, Orkney KW17 2SF
Smoo Cave: Lairg IV27 4QA
Ardvreck Castle: Lairg IV27 4HL

The first stop of the tour was Italian Chapel.

During World War II, there were Italian prisoners of war (POWs) held on Orkney Island, specifically on the island of Lamb Holm, where they were engaged in various construction projects, including the famous Italian Chapel.

Looking back

Italian POWs captured during the North African campaign and brought to Orkney were worked on the construction of barriers, causeways, and other infrastructure as part of the Churchill Barriers project.

This is one of many barriers built by the prisoners.

We took the ferry back to mainland Scotland and drove toward the north.

We drove a portion of the North Coast 500 (NC500).

NC500 is a popular scenic driving route in Scotland that offers a breathtaking journey along the northern coast of the country. It covers around 500 miles (805 kilometers) and showcases some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines and dramatic cliffs to historic castles and charming villages.

The first stop on drive was this scenery point for photo taking.

The next stop was on this beach for its scenery.

The next stop was Smoo Cave. It’s one of the largest and most impressive sea caves in Britain.

Smoo Cave was formed over thousands of years by the erosion of limestone rocks by the sea and freshwater streams. The cave is divided into two main chambers, with the first chamber formed by sea erosion and the inner chamber, or “blowhole,” formed by freshwater.

Looking back

Panoramic view

Looking at the other side toward the ocean.

Stopped at another beach along the coast. Panoramic view

Another stop for scenery

Yet, another stop for scenry

The final stop before the town of Ullapool was the Ardvreck Castle.

Ardvreck Castle was built in the late 16th century, around 1590, by the Clan MacLeod. It served as a stronghold and residence for the MacLeods of Assynt. The castle was strategically positioned near the northern end of Loch Assynt and played a role in the conflicts and power struggles of the region.

Only parts of the tower and walls remain, but it still holds a sense of historical charm and significance.