Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s biggest tourist destinations. The 23-mile stretch of water is best known for the monster which is supposed to live there. Visitors from around the globe flock to the Scottish Highlands in the hope of catching a glimpse of “Nessie.”
Apart from the monster, Loch Ness has plenty more to offer visitors. Driving around the loch there are interesting locations and stunning views at almost every turn.
The North Side of Loch Ness
The vast majority of tourist attractions are concentrated on the north side of the loch. Perhaps the most recognisable landmark is Urquhart Castle, where several famous monster photos have been taken over the years. A visit to the ruined castle is rewarded with panoramic views of the loch.
There is also a small memorial on the north side of the loch, next to the A82 road, recalling a tragic event which occurred near the spot in 1952. The famous racing driver and record-breaker John Cobb crashed to his death while attempting to break the water speed record on the loch.
The Loch Ness Centre, which provides visitors with a wealth of information about the area, is in the village of Drumnadrochit. Over 750 feet deep at some points, there is more fresh water in Loch Ness than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.
Fort Augustus is another picturesque place to stop beside the loch, and visitors can see the impressive set of locks on the Caledonian Canal there. The canal runs from Fort William to Inverness, and the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre is located in Fort Augustus. There is also the Clansman Centre, which recalls life as it was in the Highlands. Nearby is the Rare Breeds Croft, which is home to various exotic animals and birds.
One of the best ways to experience Loch Ness is to leave terra firma behind and take advantage of the many cruises on offer, including monster spotting ones. A variety of water sports can also be enjoyed on the loch, including canoeing and windsurfing.
The South Side of Loch Ness
The south side of Loch Ness shows far less signs of the tourism industry, with miles of unspoilt countryside. The Falls of Foyers provide an impressive spectacle and it is a great place to stop for a break. Visitors may be lucky enough to see some of the local wildlife, which includes golden eagles, ospreys, squirrels and deer.
The south side of the loch is also the location for the notorious Boleskine House, once owned by the occultist Aleister Crowley. More recently, the house was in the possession of the Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, a Crowley fanatic. Stories persist to this day of strange happenings in the area. While attempting to film a feature about Crowley in the graveyard opposite the house it is claimed that the film crew was forced to flee by a plague of locusts. The house is privately owned and is not open to the public.
Loch Ness Accommodation
Visitors to Loch Ness have the choice of staying in just about every type of accommodation imaginable. Traditional hotels are to be found in the villages around the loch, along with secluded guest houses in the surrounding countryside. Self-catering accommodation is also in plentiful supply, along with caravan parks and camp sites. For an alternative place to stay boats can be hired to stay on, perhaps increasing the chance of spotting the elusive monster.
Kevin Guthrie - Kevin is based in Fife, Scotland, where he works as a music teacher, professional drummer and freelance writer. At an early age he ...
