Loch Ness Attractions and Activities

Loch Ness

Loch Ness is one of the world’s most famous lakes thanks to its mysterious and hauntingly beautiful setting. Easily reached from The Kingsmills Hotel, you can join the hunt for its resident monster on an exciting day trip.

The Loch Ness Monster

By volume, Loch Ness is Scotland’s largest lake. The loch itself is 20 miles long and as deep as 700 feet. However, various legends imply that parts of the loch are bottomless. Or that ancient tunnels connect it to the ocean. Some say that this is how primordial creatures found their way into the Loch and became trapped. Only to become the ancestors of Nessie. As with many stories connected to Loch Ness, the lines between fact and fiction are frequently blurred. The truth remains undiscovered. Whatever the truth, these waters have exercised a pull on the imagination that has kept people coming back for generations. Visit for yourself and you may also fall under Nessie’s spell!

Things to do around Loch Ness

The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition will delight first-time and seasoned visitors alike, with detailed information about the loch itself, its ecology and of course, its mystery resident. Over 500 million years of history is uncovered during this experience, explaining both the facts and legends behind this world famous location. 

One of the best ways to experience this mysterious loch is by boat. Explore the deep and mysterious loch by sailing its legendary waters. Learn all about the Loch Ness Monster. And visit ancient Highland sites and historical attractions along the way. Head on board one of the Jacobite Cruises and sail round the loch, past the ruins of Urquhart Castle as local tour guides share their knowledge. On Cruise Loch Ness, there are a number of different tours to choose from that depart from Inverness Bus Station. Alternatively, you can depart from Tomnahurich Bridge, a mile and a half from Inverness city centre close to the beautiful Ness Islands.

Urquhart Castle, on the shores of Loch Ness is a great place to visit on your trip around Loch Ness. Climb the Grant Tower for stunning views over the loch, explore the ruins and learn more about Scotland’s fascinating past. You can view artefacts once owned by past residents, along with replica items. And hear the many stories of Urquhart Castle, including St Columba’s 6th-century miracles, and the MacDonald Lords’ struggle for power. As one of the greatest castles in the Highlands, the story of Urquhart Castle is writ in the many wonderful artefacts left behind by its ancient residents. With a distinctly Highland heritage, the site has witnessed some of the most dramatic chapters in Highland history. Once one of the largest castles in all of Scotland, Urquhart Castle was a strategic key to holding the North. An iconic castle overlooking an equally iconic loch, it played an important role in the Wars of Independence. Today, visitors travel far and wide to walk among these ancient ruins and discover the splendour of Urquhart Castle for themselves.

From historic attractions to natural wonders, Loch Ness and Inverness has a lot to offer. From Urquhart Castle, venture further south to the sleepy village of Foyers and discover the might and majesty of the Falls of Foyers. Follow a short but spectacular walk from the heart of the village that will lead you to one of the must-see sights of South Loch Ness – a 140ft waterfall set in a dramatic gorge. You can take a bus to Foyers, or park your car at Upper Foyers (near the shop and café). Then simply follow the steep and beautiful 3-mile path to the spectacular Falls of Foyers.

Loch Ness Walking, Cycling, Horse Riding

Loch Ness is a haven for adventure lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This means there are a number of great walking and cycle trails all around Loch Ness and Inverness. For cyclists, the sleepy south side of the loch offers a range of quiet country roads with spectacular views overlooking the loch. For avid walkers, there are many long-distance trails from Loch Ness across the Scottish Highlands. But for anyone looking to enjoy a picturesque stroll in Loch Ness, there are many beautiful shorter woodland walks on either side of the loch. The Abriachan Garden Nursery features some of the most beautiful plants in the area, as well as enchanted pathways for the whole family to explore. 

If walking and cycling in Loch Ness isn’t your cup of tea, head to the breathtaking town of Dores (just south of Inverness) and take in the sights and sounds of beautiful Loch Ness from horseback with Loch Ness Riding. Rides are between 1 to 3 hours, but day rides and multi-day rides can be arranged.

 

So there you have it. A range of things to do and places to see in Loch Ness. To find out more about visiting Loch Ness during your Inverness holiday, or to book your accommodation in Inverness, speak to us today.

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