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What to do at Loch Ness

Loch Ness cruise

Glide across Loch Ness on a relaxing boat cruise. This is a family-friendly experience where you can actively join the search for Nessie using onboard sonar equipment. As you cruise, you'll feel the cool, fresh air and hear captivating tales of the loch's history and mystery from an expert guide. Lasting around 50 mins, it’s a perfect, low-intensity adventure for all ages. Book your Loch Ness cruise to begin your monster hunt!

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Urquhart Castle

Step back in time to experience a thousand years of history at Urquhart Castle, dramatically set on the shores of Loch Ness. You can wander through the ancient ruins, climb the Grant Tower for panoramic views of the loch, and discover centuries of conflict and legend. This is an immersive, family-friendly historical journey that brings Scottish heritage to life. Plan for a 1-2 hour visit and book your tickets online to guarantee entry.

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Hike the Loch Ness 360° trail

Go on a walking or cycling adventure along the Loch Ness 360° Trail, an 80-mile circular route offering unforgettable scenery. Whether you're an avid trekker completing the full, strenuous loop (requiring hiking boots) or seeking an easy, family-friendly stroll, the trail has sections for all abilities. It’s an epic way to immerse yourself in the rugged Highlands landscape surrounding Loch Ness. Find maps and gear lists online to plan your perfect outdoor journey.

​Things to do at Loch Ness

History of Loch Ness in a nutshell

Carved by immense glaciers within the Great Glen Fault over millions of years, the loch's depth and volume are the result of this ancient, powerful process. The loch's story then evolves into myth with the earliest account of a "water beast" dating back to the 6th century in a story of Saint Columba.

However, the global fascination with Loch Ness truly began in 1933. The construction of a new road along the loch's shore offered unprecedented views, leading to a surge in reported sightings of the "Loch Ness monster" that captured the world's attention. This pivotal moment transformed the loch into one of Scotland's most famous and visited destinations.

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Nessie

The modern legend of the Loch Ness monster began in 1933 after a couple sighted an "enormous animal," though ancient myths of a "water beast" date back to 6 CE. The most iconic "proof," the 1934 "Surgeon's Photograph," was proven a hoax decades later. A 2018 study found unusually high amounts of eel DNA in the loch, leading to a new theory that the monster might be a giant eel.

Flora & fauna

Beyond its legendary inhabitant, Loch Ness is a haven for rich wildlife. The loch's waters are home to Atlantic salmon, trout, and a significant population of eels. The surrounding Great Glen is where you may spot red deer, otters, and native red squirrels.

Responsible tourism

To help preserve the beauty of Loch Ness, visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly. Please follow the "Leave No Trace" principle by taking all your rubbish with you. Support local businesses and consider eco-friendly tours that have "Green Tourism" accreditation to help protect this special destination.

Tips for visiting Loch Ness

  • Dress for all seasons; Scottish weather is unpredictable. Layers and a waterproof jacket are essential for a comfortable visit.
  • Visit popular spots early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful, scenic experience. Explore the quieter south side of Loch Ness by taking the scenic B852 road. This side offers different views and fewer crowds.
  • A car offers the most flexibility to explore the loch, but guided tours from Inverness or Edinburgh are a great, hassle-free alternative.
  • Major attractions are accessible, but be aware that some of the natural trails along the Loch Ness shoreline can be rugged.
  • According to the Loch Ness Centre, boat wakes can often be mistaken for the monster. Consider viewing the loch from a high vantage point like Suidhe Viewpoint on the south side for clearer, uninterrupted views.
  • Visit the Thomas Telford Bridge in Invermoriston to capture beautiful shots of the old stone bridge and the nearby gorge.

Frequently Asked Questions about Loch Ness

Loch Ness is globally famous for the legend of the Loch Ness monster, affectionately known as "Nessie." It is also the largest body of freshwater in the UK by volume, holding more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined, making it an impressive natural wonder.