Loch Ness, Scotland: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Loch Ness contains more freshwater than all the lakes in England and Wales combined? This massive body of water stretches 23 miles through Scotland’s Great Glen and plunges to depths of 755 feet, making it the perfect hiding place for mysteries and adventures alike. Beyond the famous monster tales, Loch Ness offers visitors a treasure trove of activities from ancient castle ruins to breathtaking Highland landscapes that capture the essence of Scotland’s wild beauty.

Getting to Loch Ness

Loch Ness is located in the Scottish Highlands, approximately 8 miles southwest of Inverness, which serves as the gateway to this iconic destination. Most visitors begin their journey in Inverness, which is well-connected to major Scottish cities.

By Air

Inverness Airport offers direct flights from major UK cities including London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. From the airport, it’s a short 30-minute drive to reach the northern shores of Loch Ness.

By Train

Regular train services connect Inverness to Edinburgh (3.5 hours), Glasgow (3.5 hours), and London (8 hours). The Caledonian Sleeper overnight train from London Euston is a particularly scenic and comfortable option, arriving in Inverness at 8:45 am.

By Car

Driving offers the most flexibility for exploring the area. From Edinburgh or Glasgow, the journey takes approximately 3.5 hours via the A9 road. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore the less-visited south side of the loch and discover hidden viewpoints.

Best Time to Visit Loch Ness

Loch Ness experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique perspective on this legendary landscape:

Summer (June-August)

The peak tourist season brings the warmest temperatures (15-20°C/59-68°F) and longest daylight hours, perfect for boat trips and outdoor activities. However, this is also when attractions are most crowded and accommodation prices highest.

Autumn (September-November)

A magical time to visit as the surrounding forests transform into a tapestry of gold and crimson. The weather remains relatively mild in early autumn, and you’ll encounter fewer tourists while enjoying the spectacular foliage.

Winter (December-February)

The quietest season brings shorter days and chilly temperatures (0-7°C/32-45°F). While some boat tours operate less frequently, the misty loch takes on a mysterious atmosphere that perfectly complements the monster legends. Accommodation rates are at their lowest.

Spring (March-May)

As wildflowers bloom across the Highlands, spring offers increasing daylight and gradually warming temperatures. This shoulder season provides a good balance between favorable weather and smaller crowds.

For the optimal experience, consider visiting in late May or September when the weather is generally pleasant, daylight hours are long, and the summer crowds haven’t peaked or have begun to diminish.

Top Things to Do in Loch Ness

1. Explore Urquhart Castle

Standing on a rocky promontory jutting into Loch Ness, the magnificent ruins of Urquhart Castle offer some of the most iconic views in Scotland. This 13th-century fortress played a significant role in the Wars of Scottish Independence and has witnessed over 1,000 years of turbulent history.

Climb to the top of Grant Tower for panoramic views across the loch, explore the prison cell, and imagine life in this medieval stronghold. The visitor center features an excellent exhibition on the castle’s history and a short film that dramatically reveals the view of the castle as the screen rises.

The castle is open year-round, though hours vary seasonally. Advance booking is recommended during summer months when it can get particularly busy.

2. Take a Boat Cruise on Loch Ness

No visit to Loch Ness is complete without venturing onto its mysterious waters. Several companies offer cruises ranging from one-hour trips to full-day excursions. Jacobite Cruises and Cruise Loch Ness operate year-round from various points including Dochgarroch Lock, Clansman Harbour, and Fort Augustus.

Many boats are equipped with sonar and underwater imaging systems, giving you a chance to peer into the depths in search of Nessie. Even if the monster remains elusive, the spectacular Highland scenery and informative commentary make these cruises worthwhile.

For the adventurous, canoe and kayak rentals offer a more intimate way to explore the loch at your own pace. The Great Glen Canoe Trail runs the entire length of the loch for those seeking a multi-day paddling adventure.

3. Visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition

Located in Drumnadrochit, the recently renovated Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the natural history of the loch and the legend of the monster. Through seven themed areas, you’ll explore the scientific research, hoaxes, and compelling evidence surrounding Nessie.

The exhibition uses multimedia displays to present both the skeptical and believer perspectives, allowing you to form your own conclusions about what might lurk beneath the surface. Don’t miss the sonar readings from Operation Deepscan, which conducted the most thorough search of the loch in 1987.

After exploring the exhibition, you can browse the gift shop for monster memorabilia or sample spirits at the on-site Great Glen Distillery, Scotland’s smallest craft distillery.

4. Hike the Loch Ness 360° Trail

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Loch Ness 360° Trail offers an unparalleled way to experience the area’s natural beauty. This 80-mile circular route encircles the entire loch, connecting existing paths including the Great Glen Way on the north side and the South Loch Ness Trail.

You don’t need to tackle the entire trail to enjoy its benefits. Many visitors hike shorter sections, with popular day walks available from Drumnadrochit, Fort Augustus, and Dores. The trail passes through varied landscapes including ancient woodlands, open moorland, and charming villages, with constant views of the loch.

The trail is well-marked and suitable for walkers of various abilities, though some sections involve steep climbs. Cyclists can also enjoy the route, typically completing the circuit in about three days.

5. Discover Fort Augustus

The charming village of Fort Augustus sits at the southern end of Loch Ness where it meets the Caledonian Canal. Its main attraction is the impressive staircase of five locks that allows boats to navigate between the loch and canal. Watching vessels make their way through this engineering marvel is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

Visit the Caledonian Canal Centre to learn about Thomas Telford’s remarkable achievement in building this waterway in the early 19th century. The village also offers excellent dining options, gift shops, and is home to the converted Benedictine Abbey, now luxury apartments.

Fort Augustus makes an ideal base for exploring the quieter south side of Loch Ness, with several walking trails beginning from the village center.

More Things to Experience Around Loch Ness

6. Visit the Falls of Foyers

On the quieter south side of Loch Ness, the Falls of Foyers plunge 165 feet into a dramatic gorge. This spectacular waterfall inspired Robert Burns to write poetry on the spot during his 1787 visit. A well-maintained path leads through atmospheric woodland to viewing platforms overlooking the falls.

The walk takes about 20 minutes each way and includes some steep sections. Look for carved stones along the path featuring snippets of Burns’ poem. After heavy rainfall, the falls are particularly impressive, creating a thunderous display as water crashes into the gorge below.

7. Explore Reelig Glen’s Tall Trees

Just north of Loch Ness, Reelig Glen is a magical forest known for having some of Britain’s tallest trees. Follow the Tall Trees Trail, a one-mile loop through this atmospheric gorge where the Moniack Burn flows past stone bridges and grottoes.

The star attraction is a grove of Douglas firs, including specimens that have held the title of Britain’s tallest tree. The forest has an enchanted quality that has earned it the nickname “the fairy glen,” and wildlife enthusiasts might spot red squirrels and pine martens among the ancient trees.

8. Visit Dores Beach

For one of the best views of Loch Ness, head to Dores Beach at the loch’s northern end. This pebble beach offers a spectacular vista looking down the entire length of Loch Ness. It’s particularly magical at sunset when the changing colors reflect on the water.

The Dores Inn provides refreshments with a view, and you might encounter Steve Feltham, the “Nessie Hunter” who has been keeping watch for the monster from his converted van here since 1991. A 4.5-mile circular walk from the beach takes you along the shoreline to Torr Point and back through woodland.

Where to Eat Around Loch Ness

The Loch Ness area offers excellent dining options featuring fresh Highland produce and traditional Scottish cuisine:

Drumnadrochit and North Shore

• Fiddlers Highland Restaurant – Family-run establishment serving award-winning haggis and other Scottish specialties in a warm atmosphere.
• Loch Ness Inn – Recently renovated pub offering locally sourced food and Highland ales in Drumnadrochit.
• The Clansman Hotel Restaurant – Waterside dining with panoramic loch views and a menu featuring Scottish classics.

Fort Augustus and South Shore

• The Lovat – Fine dining restaurant using high-quality local ingredients presented with artistic flair.
• The Lock Inn – Casual pub fare with outdoor seating overlooking the canal locks.
• The Boathouse Restaurant – Seafood specialist with fresh catches from Scotland’s waters.

Local Specialties to Try

• Haggis, neeps, and tatties – Scotland’s national dish of spiced meat pudding with turnips and potatoes.
• Cullen skink – Creamy smoked haddock soup.
• Fresh salmon – Often locally caught and simply prepared.
• Whisky – Sample Highland single malts at local pubs or visit nearby Glen Ord Distillery.

Where to Stay at Loch Ness

Accommodation options around Loch Ness range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and charming B&Bs:

Luxury Options

• The Lovat Loch Ness – Four-star eco-conscious hotel in Fort Augustus with an award-winning restaurant.
• Bunchrew House Hotel – Historic 17th-century mansion near Inverness offering elegant rooms and fine dining.
• Glenmoriston Arms Hotel – Boutique hotel with whisky bar and traditional Scottish ambiance.

Mid-Range Accommodations

• Loch Ness Inn – Recently renovated inn with comfortable rooms above its popular restaurant in Drumnadrochit.
• Craigdarroch Hotel – Traditional Highland lodge with loch views and local cuisine in Foyers.
• Inch Hotel – Victorian country house with gardens extending to the lochside.

Budget and Self-Catering Options

• Morag’s Lodge – Award-winning hostel in Fort Augustus with private and dormitory rooms.
• Wildside Highland Lodges – Self-catering log cabins with hot tubs near Whitebridge on the south side of the loch.
• Lochside Hostel – Budget-friendly accommodation with stunning waterfront location.

Practical Tips for Visiting Loch Ness

Weather Preparation

The Scottish Highlands are known for changeable weather, even in summer. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes regardless of when you visit. The saying “four seasons in one day” often applies to this region, so be prepared for sudden shifts from sunshine to rain.

Transportation

While public buses connect the main villages around Loch Ness, services can be infrequent. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car to explore at your own pace, especially if you want to visit the less accessible south shore.

Connectivity

Mobile phone coverage can be patchy around parts of Loch Ness, particularly on the south side. Download maps and information in advance if you plan to explore remote areas.

Midges

During summer months (particularly June-August), Scotland’s infamous midges (tiny biting insects) can be present in the evenings and early mornings. Pack insect repellent if visiting during this period.

Booking Ahead

During peak season (June-August), it’s advisable to book accommodation, boat tours, and tickets for Urquhart Castle in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience the Magic of Loch Ness

Whether you’re drawn by the legend of the monster, the rich history, or simply the breathtaking Highland scenery, Loch Ness offers an unforgettable Scottish experience. From exploring ancient castle ruins to hiking through pristine forests, cruising the mysterious waters to sampling local cuisine, the area rewards visitors with memories that will last a lifetime.

Beyond the famous attractions, take time to absorb the special atmosphere of this legendary place. Sit quietly by the lochside at dawn or dusk when mist often shrouds the water, creating the perfect setting for imagining what might lie beneath. Listen to local stories in village pubs, and connect with the timeless landscape that has captivated visitors for centuries.

The magic of Loch Ness lies not just in what you see, but in what you feel – that sense of mystery and wonder that has made this corner of Scotland famous throughout the world. Come with an open mind, and you might just leave with your own Loch Ness story to tell.