17 September 2010 (gig)
24 September 2010
The intimate annual Loopallu Festival is housed in one of the most awe-inspiring settings of my journey around the globe so far. Nestled between towering hills in the Scottish highlands and right on the edge of an expansive loch, the Ullapool based two-day event played host to a fine selection of local and nationwide artists, as well as 2000 fans fired up for a weekend of bobble hats and booze.
I flew up from London into Inverness airport on the Friday morning, and drove along the sole winding road north west of the city for the 90 minute journey to our destination. When not over-run with rowdy merry festival revellers, the village is home to just 1,200 people, who very patiently and warmly open up their teashops and pub tables to the invading hoards. With one large 'main stage' (thankfully undercover in a tent) and a second venue acting as a large bar and smaller performance area, the festival is enviable in its simplicity (in comparison to the Isle Of Wight 50,000 strong Bestival extravaganza from which I had just returned). With us music fans clad in waterproof gear, wellies, ear-warmers and fleece jumpers - it might not appear to be the 'coolest' of the season's events, but the cheery atmosphere and post-beer-rosey cheeks of the crowds on site made it absolutely one of the friendliest. Highlights from the two days of music included Paolo Nutini, The Magic Numbers, Idlewild, Turin Breaks and the comparatively smaller Silver Columns and James Macenzie And The Aquascene. On top of this, between main-stage sets, the bar crowd were treated to cover tunes and fishing songs from a local band (plus harmonica), prompting some happy singalongs and group dancing.
The audience were made up from majority Scotts - many in their 30s with their children also on board - creating a really merry and family-fun weekend vibe. I would happily return next year for the views and stunning sunsets alone - but throwing in the inclusion of great music, good local ale, tasty grub and happy new pals - it's a short and sweet definite must-do for your 2011 holiday calendar.
Globetrotting Guide for the Trident Perpetual Festival
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