Visit Loch Ness

You have almost certainly heard of Loch Ness and its famous inhabitant – Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Whether you believe in Nessie or not, no-one can deny that Loch Ness is beautiful and many people insist that the quieter south side of the loch is the more spectacular side.  In spring the woods and grass verges on this side are a mass of yellow primroses, then later there are bluebells to admire followed by the brilliant yellow of gorse bushes.

To do the complete circular tour around the loch makes an excellent drive with more opportunities to wander along the water’s edge and take photographs on the south shore. However, the much photographed Urquhart Castle is on the other side, so why not do the drive right round and decide for yourself which you prefer?

The best views of Urquhart Castle are from the Inverness to Drumnadrochit road (the A82). Drumnadrochit is the home of two monster exhibitions (fun for the children) and a model, on the village green, of Urquhart Castle made of plants. The castle itself is 1½ miles past the village in a commanding position overlooking Loch Ness. A mile through “Drum”, at the crossroads you can turn right into West Lewiston, a village lane lined with old cottages.

Returning up the other side of the Loch after Fort Augustus, a pretty little town, there is a splendid viewpoint at Suidhe Chumein on the B862 Fort Augustus to Whitebridge road. At Inverfarigaig there are very pleasant forest trails with views over Loch Ness. In the middle of Foyers is a sign to the Falls. It’s a fairly steep track which can get slippery after rain but it’s worth making the effort for the pretty views.

If you spot the occasional thick rope over the road about 20 feet high, you may be interested to know that these are to help red squirrels cross from one side to the other without becoming road casualties! There is a nice little inn at the village at Dores where you can get refreshments or wander along the pebbly beach.  About 60 miles total round trip.

An alternative might be to take one of the cruises on Loch Ness or a coach tour which includes Loch Ness amongst other features.