A Trip of Legend: Loch Ness
When you think of Scotland, what is one of the first things that comes to mind? If you answered Braveheart gold star for you! But that’s not what we meant so let’s try rephrasing the question. When you think of a famous Scottish tale, about a big body of water what comes to mind?
Ding, ding, ding! It’s Loch Ness – that’s right!
Very few places in the world have attracted so much fascination and questions as Loch Ness. It is a global icon known by many for the monster that lives in its depths. There is so much to see and do in the Highlands which is why we’re giving you the scoop on what you need to know about visiting Loch Ness.
The Ness-cessary Guide to Visiting Loch Ness
Here is what we think you should know about visiting Loch Ness.
⛴️ Don’t Skip the Boat Tour
The best way to see the loch is to be on the water. There are several tour companies you can purchase tickets from but we highly recommend you purchase tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss the ride.
🛥️ Check out this Loch Ness Inspiration Cruise
Once you set sail along the dark waters, your guide will share stories about the local history, and Nessie sightings as you take in the incredible views of the Highlands.
Passport Partners Pro Tip: If you’re looking for that perfect photo opt consider an early morning cruise or later in the evening when the light over the water is just right.
👀 Keep Your Eyes Peeled
While visiting Loch Ness, you’ll likely notice that the loch is a very dark color. In fact it’s so dark that it’s almost impossible to really see what's lurking below. Enter the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.
Having been reported as a dark green, serpent-like creature, with humps that are visible above water, Nessie is a symbol of Scottish heritage. Tales of the beast that calls the loch near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands home has been passed down by generations dating all the way back to 6th-century AD. Celebrated by people world-wide, each year tourists flock to this area in hopes of seeing the monster they’ve come to love through movies, books, and documentaries.
Nessie isn’t the only piece of history to be seen while on the water. Sitting upon the western shore, you will see the famous Urquhart Castle. This fortress is no stranger to battles and played a pivotal role in the fight for Scottish independence.
Did You Know: A loch is the Scottish Gaelic word for lake – commonly used to describe a large body of water. Loch Ness and Loch Lomond are two of the most famous examples of bodies of water in Scotland.
🏰 Charming Finds Around Every Corner
The landscape and towns around Loch Ness are stunning. Each has their own unique offerings where you can catch boat tours, grab some lunch, stroll by the water, or even stay the night in a bed and breakfast.
If we’ve convinced you by this point to hop on a boat tour, Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit are the two towns that you’ll want to check out to board a cruise.
🚌 Getting There
The loch is easily accessible by car or bus. If you are departing from Inverness it’s only about a 30 - minute drive by car.
Discover more to see near Inverness in our post: 4 Highland Sites You Need to Visit in Under an Hour from Inverness
Day tours are also available from Edinburgh – which is what we did.
☀️ Time of Year to Visit
Nature is never closed. Loch Ness can be visited year-round, but if you’re hoping for good weather consider spring or summer when there is a bit more daylight.
Even though Nessie was a no show — this dreamy dock and gorgeous Highland view totally did. Cruise Loch Ness? Don’t mind if we do.
Loch Ness is a magical place and a can’t miss site when visiting Scotland. Let us know if you catch a glimpse of Nessie in your adventures.
Safe Travels!
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