Photographed By Jack Marris Pop Up Exhibition Business Meet & Greet

Join us in the heart of Fort William at Ben Nevis Visitors Centre for an exclusive business meet and greet, ahead of the Jack Marris Photography Exhibition.

Learn more about Jack's photography, view his new collection, and get the opportunity to talk further about future possibilities for collaboration & how he could benefit your business.

Event Details:

Date & Time: August 2nd, 6.30pm Location: Ben Nevis Visitors Centre, PH33 6ST

The full exhibition is running August 3rd - 11th and will include canvas stretching demonstrations and feature video & drone footage of Jack capturing these incredible images, alongside some presentations.

Who is Jack Marris?

Jack moved to Applecross in 2012 after travelling extensively across Scotland in search of dramatic scenery to photograph. He fell in love with the northwest Highlands, and Applecross embodied everything he was looking for as photographic inspiration and was an ideal location to start his professional career as a photographer.

In 2015 Jack opened the Applecross Photographic Gallery, where his images are now exhibited and made by hand. Over the years the gallery has grown and Jack has been able to build a team of local people. This allows him to offer a wide variety of high-quality, sustainably made products using local materials wherever possible.

Jack values quality over quantity and he has a keen eye for detail throughout his work. Almost all of the images he takes have been meticulously planned to make the most of seasonal light and weather. This attention to detail can often mean images are several years in the making. As many of Jack’s photographs require camping overnight on mountain summits and ridges in all seasons, this level of planning is vital.

Exploring Scottish Shielings in Applecross

In the Scottish Highlands, shielings are a fascinating part of history. These simple, seasonal dwellings were used by herders during the summer months. Let's dive into what shielings are, their historical importance, and some examples of Scottish shielings in Applecross, and around the local area.

What Are Shielings

Shielings, or "àirighean" in Gaelic, are basic huts or cottages where herders stayed during the summer while their livestock grazed in the highlands. These structures were made from local materials like stone, wood, and turf. Typically, a shieling had one room that served as living quarters and a place to store and process milk.

The design of shielings was practical and functional. The stone walls provided shelter from the harsh Highland weather, while the turf roofs offered insulation. Inside, the space was often minimal, with a simple hearth for cooking and warmth. The primary purpose of these structures was to serve as temporary homes during the grazing season, so comfort was secondary to functionality.

Why Are Shielings Important?

Shielings were a crucial part of life in the Highlands for many centuries. They allowed herders to take their animals to fresh pastures during the summer, giving the lowland fields time to recover. This practice, known as transhumance, was essential for maintaining healthy livestock and ensuring the survival of rural communities.

Transhumance also played a significant role in the agricultural economy of the Highlands. By rotating the grazing areas, herders could maximize the productivity of their land. This method helped prevent overgrazing, which could lead to soil erosion and reduced fertility of the land.

Shielings were also social hubs where herders shared stories, songs, and folklore, preserving the culture and traditions of the Highlands. During the summer months, these remote areas would come alive with activity, creating a sense of community among the herders. This social aspect was important for maintaining cultural traditions and passing down knowledge through generations.

Scottish Shielings in Applecross and Beyond

Applecross, known for its stunning landscapes, has several notable shieling sites. Visiting these places gives a glimpse into the past and the lives of the people who lived there.

1. Clachan Church Shieling: Near the historic Clachan Church, this shieling site shows the close connection between herding and religious life in the area.

2. Torridon and Kinlochewe: This area next to Applecross has well-preserved shieling huts with the dramatic Torridon mountains as a backdrop. These sites illustrate the isolation and beauty of the shieling lifestyle.

3. Bealach na Ba: Famous for its scenic pass, Bealach na Ba has remnants of old shielings along its route. The challenging terrain highlights the resilience of the herders who lived here. The Bealach was historically a drovers' route, used to move cattle from the highlands to the markets in the lowlands.

4. Isle of Skye: With a long history, it's no wonder you can find shieling sites dotted amongst the dramatic scenery of Skye, including the Trotternish Peninsula and Glen Sligachan.

Preserving Shieling History

Today, efforts are being made to protect and preserve these historical sites. Local heritage organizations and archaeological groups are working to document and maintain shieling sites. Walking trails and information signs help visitors understand the importance of these places and the way of life they represent.

Final Word

Shielings in Applecross are more than just old ruins; they are a link to a time when people lived closely with nature. Exploring these sites offers a deeper appreciation for the hard work and adaptability of Highland communities.

Whether you're interested in history, love nature, or just want a peaceful escape, the shielings of Applecross provide a fascinating and inspiring journey into the past. So put on your hiking boots, breathe in the fresh Highland air, and explore the rich history of this beautiful region. Head to the Applecross Heritage Centre's website for more info on Applecross history.

The Top 5 Things To Do In Applecross

Planning a trip to Applecross? Make sure you include the things on this list! Applecross is a remote peninsula in Wester Ross, facing across to the Isle of Skye & Raasay. The area around Applecross is believed to be one of the earliest settled parts of Scotland, and the name Applecross is at least 3,100 years old, known in Gaelic as A'Chomraich – 'The Sanctuary'. Keep reading for the top 5 things to do in Applecross!

Things To Do In Applecross

1. Drive the Bealach na Bà

A visit to Applecross is not complete without driving the famous Bealach na Bà. This mountain pass, known as the "Pass of the Cattle," is one of the highest and most challenging roads in the UK. The road climbs to 626 meters (2,054 feet) above sea level, featuring tight hairpin bends and breathtaking views. As you drive up, you'll see panoramic scenes of the Inner Hebrides and the surrounding mountains. Drive carefully and enjoy the journey—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

If you want to see what the drive looks like before you go, we've got a short film that shares the route via drone! This will give you a true feel for the views, single-track roads, and hopefully get you excited for a wonderful drive.

2. Enjoy local food at The Walled Garden or Applecross Inn

After the drive, relax with a visit to The Walled Garden. This restored Victorian garden near Applecross House is filled with colorful flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Walk through the peaceful pathways and enjoy the beauty of the garden. The food is served garden, sea, and land to-table - as local as it gets!

The Applecross Inn is also a must-visit. Known for its friendly atmosphere and delicious local food, the inn offers a true taste of Scotland. Enjoy fresh seafood like langoustines, mussels, and scallops, or try dishes made with Highland beef and venison. Pair your meal with a local ale or a dram of whisky for an authentic experience. You can also sit outside with fish & chips or a locally-made icecream from the Inn Side Out.

3. Enjoy A Trip To The Beach

As a coastal Highland village, it's no surprise that Applecross is home to some incredible beaches. We always recommend a trip to Sand beach, located 15 minutes around the coast. You can enjoy a walk to Sand over the tops from Applecross, with stunning views the whole way of Applecross and over to Skye.

We also have two coral beaches, located between Culduie & Toscaig. These beaches are only accessed via an 3.5-mile walk, which is family-friendly & involves lovely views over to Skye. Here you'll find white sand made from coral-like maerl and turquoise waters. It's a great place to go and switch off for a while, maybe even enjoying a dip in the sea if the weather is nice enough!

4. Watch The Local Wildlife

Applecross is a great place for wildlife watching. The peninsula’s varied habitats—from coastal areas to woodlands—are home to many animals. You can often see seals along the coastline past Camusterrach, either resting on rocks or swimming in the sea. If you're very lucky (and quiet), you might even spot a sea otter.

Highland cows, with their long hair and large horns, are another common sight. These gentle animals graze in the fields and are great for photos. Deer, especially stags, roam the hills and forests, adding to the wild beauty of the area. We also have Pine Martins, which are more rare to spot!

Bird watchers will also find much to enjoy in Applecross. The area is home to many bird species, from white-tailed sea eagles and golden eagles to migrating birds such a eider ducks, divers, and snipes. Bring your binoculars and see how many different birds you can spot.

5. Visit The Applecross Gallery!

We couldn't do an Applecross blog post and not mention the gallery. Visit us, enjoy a free coffee, talk about photography and get our personal recommendations around this area of the Highlands! Maybe even grab a memento to mark your trip in Applecross...

Conclusion

Whether you’re driving the exciting Bealach na Bà, enjoying local food, exploring Coral Beach, or watching the wildlife, Applecross offers many experiences that highlight the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. This remote and beautiful peninsula invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the magic of Applecross!