A guide to Loch Ness

Loch Ness is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland and was recently voted Britain’s most popular tourist attraction. From its exceptional scenery to the mystery of Loch Ness, there is so much to see and do in the region.

Perhaps the best way to start your Loch Ness exploration is in the small town of Fort Augustus. This town is located at the beginning of Loch Ness and, although it is small in size, it is a popular tourist destination.

Attractions here include the Caledonian Canal, which runs through the heart of the village and watching the ships pass through the five locks can be a relaxing experience. There is also a selection of walks around the village that are perfect for the summer months and give you the opportunity to appreciate the surrounding landscape.

There are plenty of accommodations to choose from in Fort Augustus with dozens of bed and breakfasts throughout the town and two hotels and a hostel.

As you make your way towards Inverness, you will come across Urquhart Castle, which is one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. It’s in ruins after being destroyed by Bonnie Prince Charlie during the Jacobite Wars, but it’s still worth a visit with so much to see.

Upon arrival, you will receive a video about its history, and then you can explore the castle ruins, where you will have many good photo opportunities as the castle looks out over Loch Ness.

Your next stop should be Drumnadrochit, where you will find the Loch Ness Visitor Center. This is where you will find everything you ever wanted to know about the Loch Ness Monster and the history of Loch Ness.

There is a hotel next to the visitor center that is ideal for those looking to spend the night in Drumnadrochit and there is also bed and breakfast for those on a tighter budget.

Your final destination will be Inverness, the only city in the Scottish Highlands region. Here you can get a Jacobite cruise on Loch Ness with boat trips lasting between one and six hours.

In the city center you will find a wide selection of places to eat and stay, as well as the best commercial region in the Highlands. All forms of accommodation are available here from a budget of £ 12 per night for backpackers to a five star hotel of £ 100 per night.

It is possible to rely entirely on Inverness to tour the Loch Ness area, as it is only 33 miles from Inverness to Fort Augustus, which encompasses all of Loch Ness. But a big part of visiting Loch Ness is discovering the little towns and villages along the way with some hidden gems to discover and plenty of friendly locals to advise on what to see and do in the area.