30 Cool Things To Do Near Loch Ness
Loch Ness is brimming with history and stories from the World’s shyest monster. Loch Ness is one of my favourite places to visit in Scotland.
If you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of ‘Nessie’. Loch Ness is one of the most popular lochs in Scotland and there are lots of cool things to do near Loch Ness.
Overall, you will get to soak in the highland atmosphere and witness the real attractions which include castles, waterfalls, lochans, forests, distilleries and monuments. The attractions listed below are following an anti-clockwise route around Loch Ness.
You will find the east side of Loch Ness is quieter compared to the west, with fewer settlements and attractions. Also, there are some walk suggestions for all the keen nature lovers.
Inverfarigaig Pier
Inverfarigaig Pier has spectacular scenic views on offer on Loch Ness. In addition, this is the perfect spot as you will get a chance to get away from the crowds on the west side.
Interestingly, the pier was built by the famous engineer, Thomas Telford. Often, this location is known as the Thomas Telford Pier.
Nearby Accommodation: Foresters Lodge B&B
Dores Beach
Dores Beach is a pebble beach and one of the most northerly beaches facing Loch Ness. The beach is one of the first things you will come to if you are driving from Inverness to Fort Augustus.
There is not much to do in the small village itself. However, the small camper van on the beach interestingly belongs to the full-time Nessie hunter, Steve Feltham.
A walk along Dores Beach is great for stretching your legs and soaking in the atmosphere of Loch Ness in the background. I really enjoyed the views across Loch Ness.
Nearby Accommodation: Balachladaich Loch Ness B&B
Clan Fraser Cemetery/ Boleskine Burial Grounds
The burial grounds are just off the B852 between Inverfarigaig and Foyers, located on the banks of the Loch Ness. Also, for Outlander fans, in this area is the burial of the whole of the Fraser Clan.
In addition, the corner of the graveyard contains the remains of the medieval church, Old Boleskine Parish Church. The cemetery is home to an interesting dark history.
First of all, the nearby Boleskine House was burned down. Previously, a church used to sit where Boleskine House was and apparently it was burnt to the ground with the whole congregation inside!
Also, the previous owner was called Alister Crowley who was also known as ‘The Other Loch Ness Monster’ was famous for black magic and witchcraft.
And finally, there are countless other stories including murder, disappearances, suicides and hauntings.
Falls of Foyers
The Falls of Foyer is Gaelic for the ‘smoking falls’. This is an excellent find where a large powerful flow of water plummets into the River Foyers which feeds into Loch Ness.
This waterfall is incredible because it drops from a height of 165 feet, which is the highest drop in the Loch Ness region. The waterfall is so immense that the famous poet, Robert Burns was inspired to write a poem about it.
Parking is available nearby across the road from the site. Also, there is a little steep woodland walk which takes you to the directly amazing viewpoints, this only takes five minutes to get there.
Alternatively, you can choose different routes to walk, there are another three miles of woodland walks to choose from. I find that the Falls of Foyers is one of the most dramatic waterfalls in the Highlands of Scotland.
Nearby Accommodation: Foyers Bay Country House
Loch Tarff
Loch Tarff is a lovely small loch which is surrounded by low hills and scattering pine trees. The small loch is an example of the many lochans in the area.
Other lochans that you can check out are Loch Torr an Tuill and Loch Bran. Each loch brings its own diverse habitat.
Fort Augustus
Fort Augustus is a small tourist town situated on the south bank of Loch Ness, between Inverness and Fort William.
This is a good place to stop to get something to eat while enjoying the boats moving through the Caledonian Canals. You can learn a detailed history of the canals at the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre.
Or, alternatively, you can take excellent photographs at the Loch Ness Viewpoint looking. In addition, you can step back in time at the Clansman Centre and enjoy the interactive shows.
Fort Augustus Accommodation: Appin House, Hill Cottage Cabins
Glendoe Eagle Statue
Glendoe Eagle Statue is a one and half times bigger sized replica statue of a Golden Eagle. The Bronze sculpture overlooks the Glendoe Dam and it honours the 3,300 workers who worked hard for three years to build the hydro electricity scheme.
The statue is 6 miles away from Fort Augustus. It is a beautifully clever design looking out towards the reservoir. You do not even need a good day to get amazing pictures of the statue.
Invergarry Castle
The castle is perfectly positioned on Raven’s Rock in the Great Glen overlooking Loch Oich and the shipwreck. Invergarry Castle is within walking distance of the Glengarry Castle Hotel.
You can spend a couple of hours here relaxing in the castle’s grounds and enjoying the views. In addition, there is a large history to read up on.
One of the notable events that occurred was that the castle was partially destroyed by the Jacobite clan. Invergarry Castle is one of the most well-known castle ruins on the west coast of Scotland.
Location: Glengarry Castle Hotel
Loch Cluanie Viewpoint
The Loch Cluanie Viewpoint is fabulous, you are surrounded by large mountains which are over 1,000 metres high. This viewpoint gives gorgeous views of the green spaces in the Highlands near Loch Ness.
This is a popular road for those who are continuing on to the Isle of Skye. Also, there are plenty of lay-bys so you can stop and take in the breath taking scenery.
Invermoriston Falls
Invermoriston is another beautiful stop created by mother nature. You can park in the nearby Glenmoriston Car Park which is only a short walk away from the river.
The nice woodland walk takes you around to the summer house where you can get wonderful views of the stone bridge.
The walk is much easier than the Falls of Foyers. Therefore, you should add this one to your list.
The Viewcatcher
This mystical weaved sculpture is another art installation that has recently made an appearance in the Loch Ness area. The installation frames a group of Munros north of Loch Cluanie in the distance.
From the Invermoriston car park, the walk takes almost an hour. To get to the sculpture there is a 320 metres high hike to complete.
Nearby Accommodation: Lann Dearg Studios
Meall Fuar-mhonaidh
For those who are early risers, this summit offers the most perfect undisturbed views of Loch Ness. The Meall Fuar-mhonaidh includes a straightforward walk to achieve these cracking views.
Overall, the walk will take two to three hours and can be quite boggy at times. There is a small car park at the end of Bunloit Road.
Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle used to be one of the largest and greatest castles in the Highlands of Scotland. However, now it is a castle ruin located on the shore of Loch Ness.
Here, you can travel back in time where you can be immersed in over 1,000 years of history. The ruins are now run by Historic Environment Scotland, opening times and ticket prices can be found here.
A ticket provides access to the tower, visitor centre and grounds which is an excellent place to get panoramic views of Loch Ness. Also, there is a café where you can get a bite to eat and enjoy the amazing views.
Falls of Divach
Falls of Divach (pronounced Jeevach) is a hidden gem. The impressive falls contain water which plummets 100 feet below into the River Coiltie which flows into Loch Ness.
To get there you can park in the car park next to the tourist information at Drumnadrochit. From there you can walk for an hour and a half.
Alternatively, you can take your car up a bumpy track, and leave it in a small layby. From there, the falls are only 300 yards away.
Therefore making it is a moderate fairly easy walk through the Oakland woods.
Nearby Accommodation: Loch Ness Woodland Pods
The Loch Ness Centre
The Loch Ness centre is filled with history of the sightings of the Loch Ness Monster and information on the Loch Ness itself.
In addition, the exhibitions on display are very interesting, thought-provoking and showcase famous myths and legends. Also, the staff are very friendly and you can see a rewarding view of Loch Ness.
Plodda Falls
Plodda Falls is another one of Scotland’s hidden treasures. The car park is an approximately a thirty-five-minute drive from Drumnadrochit.
The waterfall is one of the tallest in the region, plummeting from 46 metres high which is 151 feet. At Plodda Falls, you can walk on gravel trails and explore the forests in the area.
In addition, if you are brave enough you can swim in the river at the bottom. Also, there is an excellent viewing platform above the waterfall and treetops which presents the most brilliant views over the Glen Affric Nature Reserve.
Nearby Accommodation: Tomich Woodland Lodges
Guisachan House
Guisachan House is a large ruined house near the small settlement of Tomich. The ancient House was a holiday home built in the 1850’s by Lady Aberdeen’s Father, Lord Tweedmouth.
As the same as many ruined buildings in Scotland, this roof was removed to avoid paying taxes and fell into despair in the 1950s. An interesting point is Guisachan is Gaelic for pine forest and is pronounced ‘yoush-a-gan’.
Glen Affric
Glen Affric is a picturesque nature reserve which is home to the oldest Caledonian pine trees. This is one of my favourite glens to visit and it is one of the most scenic glens in Scotland.
As well as pines and wildlife you can visit enchanting lochs, moorland and mountains. Therefore, it is a real tranquil spot, a real sanctuary in the highlands.
Here, you can explore the wildlife including otters, ospreys, red stag deer and birds such as red or black-throated divers.
In addition, the secluded highland area is perfect for hikers, mountain bikers or simply a drive.
Farigaig Forest
Farigaig Forest is a sanctuary for colourful wildflowers, butterflies and red squirrels.
In the forest, you can follow the trail up to a dramatic viewpoint and search for small lochans. Also, you can hunt for the ruins of an ancient fort at Dun Dearduil.
Abriachan Forest
Abriachan Forest is located on the north side of Loch Ness. There are a multitude of trails to choose from depending on the distance you are willing to walk.
The trails offer excellent viewpoints of Loch Ness. Also, you can search for various sculptures including a replica of a Bronze Age hut, shieling and a treehouse.
Lochend Beach
At Lochend Beach you can enjoy ‘monster’ views of Loch Ness. The small secluded beach offers another set of the best views of Loch Ness.
Loch Ness Cruise
Taking a cruise on Loch Ness is a unique way to sit back and relax while soaking in the beauty of the area.
There are a couple of companies that offer cruises. The first one is Cruise Loch Ness which offers speed or scenic cruises.
Cruise Loch Ness is a family owned business based in Fort Augustus. Alternatively, there is an additional company is called Loch Ness by Jacobite which is based at Clansman Harbour, situated on the North West coast of Loch Ness.
Walking Routes
Loch Ness 360 Trail
The Loch Ness 360 is an epic 360 route around the Loch Ness. Officially the eighty mile route begins at Inverness, however you can join at any point.
The trail is split into six sections which take you clockwise around Loch Ness. It is a perfect challenge for hikers, runners and cyclists.
The first half or westerly side of the Loch is also part of the Great Glen Way. In addition, the second half from Fort Augustus to Inverness on the east side of Loch Ness is also part of the South Loch Ness Trail.
Great Glen Way
The Great Glen Way stretched 118.5 km from the highland capital of Inverness all the way to outdoor capital Fort William.
This trail is perfect for hikers, cyclists, and runners. You can join the Great Glen Way at any point and walk a shorter route.
In addition, you can enjoy Munros or smaller summits which are not far from the trail. The trail can be completed in 4 to 7 days.
For most of the route, it is low level, following canal towpaths, roads and forest tracks. Keep an eye out for osprey, deer and golden eagles as you embark on the route.
Corrieyairack Pass
Corrieyairack Pass is another remote trail in the Loch Ness Area. The route begins at Laggan, Badenoch and finishes at Fort Augustus.
You should allow ten to twelve hours to complete the pass.
Interestingly, the route was originally created by General Wade as a military road through the Monadhliath Mountains, built at the time of Jacobite rising in the eighteenth century.
The walk climbs a staggering 770 metres, and it has become a popular route for mountain bikers.
Affric Kintail Way
The Affric Kintail Way is a perfect cross-country route for mountain bikers and hikers. You may not have heard of this route as it is fairly new as it opened in 2015.
Also, it begins at Drumnadrochit at Loch Ness and finishes at Morvich in Kintail.
The route offers many attractions including Eilean Donan Castle, Falls of Glomach, Kintail Mountains and many Munros to bag. In addition, the trail is split into four equal parts which take approximately five hours each.
Loch Ness Accommodation
Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Site, Foyers
The site is located on the quieter side of Loch Ness near Foyers. There are 99 pitches on offer for tents, motorhomes and caravans as well as luxury wooden wigwam cabins.
In addition, the site is only a two minute walk from Loch Ness and you are guaranteed great views and sights of the highland scenery.
Inver Coille Camping and Glamping Site, Invermoriston
From the campsite you can walk a short 500 yards to get magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and Loch Ness. It is a beautiful place to really feel connected with nature.
You can stay in the unique geo domes and experience fire pits and the wood-burning stoves. Overall, it is a completely special experience.
Faichemard Farm Touring, Caravan and Camping Grounds, Invergarry
The family run site is a place you can go to relax and enjoy peace and quiet. It is to note that is an adult only site, no children are allowed and it is for over eighteens only.
The owners of the site are delightful, welcoming and very helpful. Also, they are ready for any questions you may have.
Loch Ness Distilleries
Loch Ness Spirits, Dores
This distillery can be found on the banks of Loch Ness. You can taste some botanical and sloe gins, award-winning absinthe or some cocktails.
Unfortunately, only tastings are allowed and there are no tours available. However, the staff are extremely welcoming.
The Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery
The Glen Ord Distillery is located on the outskirts of Muir of Ord. There are tours available which take you through the whole whiskey-making process.
In addition, the group sizes are quite small so it is a great chance to ask questions.
With the entry price, you get a 10% discount in the shop and they sell whiskeys that you will not find anywhere else.
Also, you may get a free rocker glass as a souvenir. Visiting a distillery will complete your Scottish Highlands trip!
Places to Eat
The Loch Inn, Fort Augustus
The Loch Inn is the place to go in Fort Augustus if you are looking for a traditional British pub grub meal. They serve a wide range of Scottish draught, craft and cask beers along with Scottish gins.
In addition, the staff are super friendly, it has the perfect atmosphere and you can sit outside in the beer garden.
The Boathouse Loch-side Restaurant, Fort Augustus
The Boathouse is literally right on Loch Ness, held up by concrete slabs. They serve a delicious menu which specialises in Scottish-Mediterranean with a Turkish influence.
The food is amazing with vegetarian gluten-free options available. Not only will you get to indulge in a unique menu, but you can also admire the beautiful views of Loch Ness.
Glen Rowan Café, Invermoriston
Glen Rowan Café is a family owned business which sells local produce and the best specialty coffees and cakes. In addition, they sell great burgers that are extremely large portions.
So it is good value for money. Also, there are good vegetarian and vegan options. If you stop here you are in for a treat!
Fiddlers Highland Restaurant, Drumnadrochit
If you are on your holidays in Scotland you must try a delicious whiskey sticky toffee pudding.
Also, all the meat on the menu was flavourful, from the chicken to venison and steak. In addition, they also serve seasonal west coast specials, and vegetarian options.
There is good indoor seating and outdoor seating on the terrace, so if the sun is out when you are there, try and grab a seat on the terrace. Also, the staff are very knowledgeable and you can learn a lot about Scottish whiskeys.
If you are looking for somewhere to rest for the night, there is also accommodation available above the restaurant.
Loch Ness Clansman Hotel, Drumnadrochit
Loch Ness Clansman Hotel is located only ten minutes away from Inverness. The restaurant and many of the rooms have panoramic views of the Loch Ness on offer.
You can enjoy a generous hearty meal at the Cobb’s Restaurant or a quick coffee at Cobb’s Café. The customer service is superb and creates a tranquil setting for you to relax.
Additionally, the hotel is perfectly situated in Drumnadrochit as the Great Glen Way runs past the hotel.
Moreover, Clansman Harbour is only 100 yards away. Also, the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle are only a ten-minute drive away.
Loch Ness Q&A
Is Loch Ness the deepest lake in the world?
No, Loch Ness is not the deepest lake in Scotland, never mind in the world. The Loch Ness average depth is 132 metres, with the deepest point being 227 metres.
This is not as deep as Loch Morar, where the deepest point measures 320 metres. Loch Morar is located past Glenfinnan on the way to the Isle of Skye. The loch is so deep due to glacial erosion that occurred 10,000 years ago.
For comparison, Lake Baikal in Serbia is the deepest lake in the world. The average depth of Lake Baikal is 1,620 metres.
Which town is near Loch Ness?
The nearest main settlement is Fort Augustus. Fort Augustus has a population of 700 people, and the town faces directly onto the south banks of Loch Ness.
Also, Fort Augustus has basic amenities including a small shop, petrol station, restaurants, bars and accommodation.
The nearest city is the highland capital Inverness. Inverness has a population of approximately 50,000 people.
Loch Ness is approximately nine miles outside of Inverness. There are plenty of local amenities here including large supermarkets.
Final Note
The Loch is a well-known part of Scotland which is excellent for a weekend away or a road trip Also, this part of the country is perfect for solo travellers with plenty of hill walks, waterfalls and museums to explore.
Hopefully, this guide has covered lots of things to do in Loch Ness. You can go hiking, canoeing or on a boat around Loch Ness.