Categories > Guides and Tips
11 Unmissable Adventures and Hidden Gems of Loch Ness
- Explore the Urquhart Castle
- Visit the Loch Ness Centre
- Get on a Loch Ness Boat Tour
- Explore the Loch Ness 360° Trail
- Eat and Drink at Fort Augustus
- Cruise through the Caledonian Canal
- Visit the Inverness Castle
- Check out the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
- Visit the Dores Beach
- Walk or Cycle the Great Glen Way
- Trek to the Falls of Foyers
The first time I visited Loch Ness, I spent hours scanning the water’s surface hoping to get a glimpse of the Loch Ness Monster. With mist rolling the hills and the loch’s dark depths, it was easy to see why the myths endure.
Though I never spotted the legendary Nessie, the views were just as enchanting–ancient castle ruins shrouded in misty hills, and a loch so vast and mysterious, it seemed like many secrets are buried deep within the loch.
But even then without a monster sighting, there’s loads of adventure waiting to be explored in Loch Ness. From wild swimming to a boat tour, there’s plenty to do! Not sure where to start? Read on as I guide you through the best experiences.
Explore the Urquhart Castle
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Website
Address: Urquhart Castle
Contact Information: +44 1456 450551
Operating Hours:
- April to September: Daily from 9:30 AM, with last entry at 5 PM; the castle closes at 6 PM
- October: Daily from 9:30 AM, with last entry at 4 PM; the castle closes at 5 PM
- November to March: Daily from 9:30 AM, with last entry at 3:30 PM; the castle closes at 4:30 PM
Price: Free
Visiting Urquhart Castle was a true highlight of my trip to Loch Ness. A sight to behold, it’s perched dramatically on the loch’s western shore which gives you magnificent panoramic views of the water and hills, making it perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery.
Though the castle now stands in ruins, wandering through the remains such as the hall, prison cell, and Grant Tower feels like stepping back in time and gives you a glimpse of the castle’s storied past.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure when to visit, each season brings its own charm–spring and summer offer lush green landscapes, autumn paints the views golden and red, and winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland.
Visit the Loch Ness Centre
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Website
Address: Loch Ness Centre, Drumnadrochit
Contact Information: +44 1456 450573
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM–5 PM
Pricing:
- The Tour Tickets
- Standard Ticket (Pre-Book Online)
- Adult: £13.95 (Peak); £13.95 (Off-Peak)
- Child: £12.55 (Peak); £12.55 (Off Peak)
- Family: £45 (Peak); £45 (Off-Peak)
- Standard Ticket (Walk-in Rate)
- Adult: £18.95 (Peak); £16.95 (Off-Peak)
- Child: £15.95 (Peak); £15.25 (Off Peak)
- Family: £60 (Peak); £50 (Off-Peak)
- Anytime Entry Ticket (Pre-Book Online)
- Adult: £17.95 (Peak); £15.95 (Off-Peak)
- Child: £16.95 (Peak); £14.95 (Off Peak)
- Family: £55 (Peak); £53 (Off-Peak)
- Standard Ticket (Pre-Book Online)
- Deepscan Cruise
- Loch Ness Cruise Adult: £22.50
- Loch Ness Cruise Child (over 1 year): £19
For all things Loch Ness, the Loch Ness Centre is a multi-sensory experience that delves into the mysteries and wonder of the legendary loch. With a £1.5 million revamp, the upgrades are nothing short of amazing and one of the best places to explore the legend, in our opinion.
We loved the interactive exhibits, Nessie investigations, and real sonar underwater research, all of which bring to life the efforts of explorers who scoured the loch’s depths. The experience keeps you engaged at every turn, blending mystery, myth, and modern discovery.
Our favourite part? The boat tour with Deepscan Cruises was an hour-long expedition to see the depths of Loch Ness in real-time through sonar equipment.
Pro Tip: After an adventure-packed day, don’t forget to check out the gift shop to take home some Nessie souvenirs to remember your trip by.
Get on a Loch Ness Boat Tour
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Pricing:
- Adult: From £17
- Children: From £11
One of the best attractions? Loch Ness itself! And the best way to experience it? A boat tour, of course! With breathtaking views and real-time sonar scans, a boat tour is an unforgettable way to explore the loch and a great chance to immerse yourself in the mystery of Nessie.
Luckily, there are several tour operators to choose from, offering a range of experiences, from relaxing sightseeing cruises to in-depth expeditions with expert commentary.
Here are popular places you’ll want to check out:
- Fort Augustus – A scenic beauty at the southern tip of Loch Ness, the tours here feel more peaceful and less touristy. Heck, some operators even offer evening tours, which offer a more romantic and dramatic view of the loch.
- Drumnadrochit – Home to the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, so it’s a great combo to do with the boat for a more classic Nessie experience.
- Inverness – The more accessible departure point for most visitors, especially if you’re staying in the city. Hence, it’s a good spot for short and half-day trips if you’re short on time.
- Dochgarroch Lock – Perfect if you’d like a more immersive journey with tours starting from the canal to the loch and may take longer. Even then, it’s still perfectly peaceful with beautiful views of the Highland countryside.
- Foyers – Ideal if you prefer off-the-beaten-path tours that are quieter and smaller, perfect if you’re craving solitude and want to do some nature photography.
Pro Tip: The loch can be chilly and windy, even in the summer, so bring extra layers just in case.
Explore the Loch Ness 360° Trail
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If you’re the type of adventurer who likes to get a workout in while exploring new scenery, we suggest checking out Loch Ness 360°. This 80-mile (129 km) trail is a circular route that goes around the entire Loch Ness, making it perfect for hiking, cycling, and running.
Luckily, the trail has sections, so you can start at various points depending on the type and length of trail you want. Walking or hiking is the more popular way people complete the trail, especially if you want a slower pace, but this takes 5 to 7 days.
Up for the challenge? Cycling is the road less travelled, but definitely doable. You can cycle the north side for more well-maintained paths or test your skills on the south side for steep and rugged sections.
| Trail Section | Distance | Highlights | Difficulty |
| Inverness → Drumnadrochit | 19 miles / 30 km | Scenic views of the Great Glen Way as it passes through forests and Leachkin Hill. | Moderate to Hard |
| Drumnadrochit → Invermoriston | 14 miles / 23 km | Spectacular viewpoints over Loch Ness, but one of the toughest sections with steep climbs and remote terrain. | Hard |
| Invermoriston → Fort Augustus | 8 miles / 13 km | A short and scenic, but steep stretch with forest trails and lochside paths. Ends at Fort Augustus, where you can see the Caledonian Canal locks. | Moderate |
| For Augustus → Foyers | 15 miles / 24 km | A remote stretch around the wild South Loch Ness Trail that passes through farmlands and forests. | Hard |
| Foyers → Dores | 12 miles / 19 km | A mix of open moorland, woodland, lochside paths, rolling countryside, and features the Fall of Foyers. | Moderate to Hard |
| Dores → Inverness | 10 miles / 16 km | A gentle and scenic route along the shores of Loch Ness that takes you back to the city. | Easy to Moderate |
Pro Tip: Pack for all types of weather as Scotland’s conditions can change quickly, so be sure to bring waterproofs and layers.
Eat and Drink at Fort Augustus
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Address: Fort Augustus
Pricing: Around £10 to £150 per person
Sitting directly on the loch, Fort Augustus is one of the best places to experience Loch Ness up close and fill your tummies with great food while you’re at it.
From traditional Highland Pubs like The Lock Inn where you can sip whisky by the fire, to the Moorings, offering fresh seafood and canal-side dining, there’s something for everyone.
For dessert, be sure to visit The Boat House which has a dessert menu dedicated to traditional Scottish sweets, and DelightfulNess, serving up quality coffee, homemade pastries, and Rizza’s ice cream.
Pro Tip: Be sure to bring cash as some independent businesses or stalls may only accept cash.
While ATMs are available, they can be limited or busy, especially in peak tourist season.
Cruise through the Caledonian Canal
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Website
Address: Caledonian Canal
Pricing:
- Short Cruises and Day Tours: From £21 per person
- Multi-Day Cruises: £5,000 per person
You may have noticed the recurring theme here–boat trips. And for good reason! Trust me. They’re the best way to get around the Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal.
The Caledonian Canal stretches 60 miles long and cuts through the spectacular Great Glen, making it ideal for a multi-day adventure. Along the way, you’ll pass by Urquhart Castle, Loch Oich, and Loch Locky, each offering stunning views of the Highland scenery.
By the end of your journey, you’ll either arrive at Inverness (from the south) or Fort William (from the north), each a gateway to even more adventures by Loch Ness.
Pro Tip: Whether you’re doing a short day-tour or a multi-day cruise, be sure to stock up on supplies such as snacks and essentials.
Visit the Inverness Castle
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Website
Address: Inverness Castle
Contact Information: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Daily: 9:30AM – 5:30AM
Pricing:
- Adult: £20 (online booking) / £22 (in-person booking)
- Seniors: £18 (online booking) / £20 (in-person booking)
- Child: £14 (online booking) / £16 (in-person booking)
- Family (two adults, two children): £46 (online booking) / £54 (in-person booking)
- Family (two adults, three children): £55 (online booking) / £65 (in-person booking)
A sight to see, we think Inverness Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It sits atop a hill overlooking Loch Ness, offering breathtaking views, making it impossible for us to resist a photography session here.
Having seen better days since being built in 1836 as a courthouse and prison, the castle underwent a £30 million redevelopment project, which is why we’re so excited to be back and see it in its transformed glory.
You’ll get to enjoy interactive exhibits, immersive storytelling, and a rooftop viewpoint. Plus with engaging displays and hands-on activities, there’s definitely something for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Pro Tip: For the full castle experience, visit the Castle Viewpoint where you’ll find the best panoramic views.
Check out the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery
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Website
Address: Castle Wynd
Contact Information: +44 01349 781700 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Summer Operating Hours (April to October)
- Tuesday to Saturday: 10AM – 7PM
- Winter Operating Hours (November to March)
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 5PM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 PM – 4 PM
Pricing: Free (donations are welcome!)
What we love the most about the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is its well-rounded exploration of the Scottish Highlands. History, culture, and art, the museum is a must-visit if you’re eager to learn more about the region’s rich heritage.
It’s also one of our favourite great-value destinations because admission is completely free, making it an excellent choice for those looking for budget-friendly experiences.
We think that families with young children will especially enjoy the interactive displays and engaging exhibits. Take it from me. My sweet niece was having the time of her life and didn’t want to leave!
Pro Tip: With so much to see and explore at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, you’ll easily spend a couple of hours here, so be sure to plan well.
Visit the Dores Beach
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Website
Address: Dores Beach
Operating Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Pricing: Free
Another scenic beach with incredible views that we’ll keep coming back to is Dores Beach. It’s one of the best vantage points to see the full length of Loch Ness. Having visited a couple of times, we can confidently say that the sunrises and sunsets here are a must-see for any visitor.
But Dores Beach isn’t just about the views. It’s also home to Steve Feltham, a full-time Nessie hunter since 1991 who made a spot near the beach his base to uncover the loch’s secrets and mysteries. If you’re curious about Nessie, be sure to stop by and have a chat!
Although, if you’re not up for some adventure, simply relaxing by the water is a great way to enjoy the beach. Several kayak tours operate in the area, but you can also bring your own paddleboard or simply take a scenic shoreline walk.
Pro Tip: Be sure to bring layers as the weather by Dores Beach can change quickly, even on a sunny day, so it’s best to be prepared.
Walk or Cycle the Great Glen Way
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Website
Address: The Great Glen Way
If you’re up for some adventure, you’ll surely get it at every section of the Great Glen Way. Stretching 79 miles (127 km) from Fort William to Inverness, the path passes through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes we cannot miss a walk or cycle around its sections.
To complete on foot, the entire journey takes about 5 to 7 days so it’s best to do this sometime between April and October for the best weather conditions. Luckily, the path is split into 6 sections, so you can cut the trip short if you’re not up for a week-long hike.
Alternatively, you can cycle through the Great Glen Way, which takes most cyclists 2 to 3 days. As the terrain is a mix of town paths, forest trails, and rough tracks, be sure to use a mountain bike or hybrid.
| Trail | Distance | Highlights | Difficulty |
| Fort William → Gairlochy | 10.5 miles / 17 km | Stunning views of the Ben Nevis, Neptune’s Staircase, and Gairlochy Swing Bridge. | Easy |
| Gairlochy → Laggan | 12 miles / 19 km | Peaceful stretch along Loch Lochy and through woodland and moorlands | Moderate |
| Laggan → Fort Augustus | 10.5 miles / 17 km | Picturesque walk along Loch Oich and the Caledonian Canal | Easy |
| Fort Augustus → Invermoriston | 8 miles / 13 km | A bit of a challenging climb with beautiful views of the Invermoriston Falls and Thomas Telford Bridge | Moderate |
| Invermoriston → Drumnadrochit | 14 miles / 22.5 km | Offers the best panoramic views overlooking Loch Ness, but is the hilliest option | Hard |
| Drumnadrochit → Inverness | 18 miles / 29 km | Beautiful rolling open landscapes | Moderate |
Pro Tip: Midgets can be annoying, especially in the summer, so be sure to bring insect repellent (and a back up!).
Trek to the Falls of Foyers
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Website
Address: Falls of Foyers, B852
Contact Information: +441456486233
Operating Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Pricing: Free
For when we’re in the mood for a short but scenic circular trail, our go-to is trekking the Falls of Foyers. Located on the south side of Loch Ness, it has one of Scotland’s most powerful cascades, making for a relaxing visit to connect with nature.
In fact, it’s been a popular tourist destination since the 18th century. There’s even a poem about it written by Robert Burns in 1787 admiring its beauty.
After taking in the falls, we love stopping by the cosy cafes nearby that offer homemade cakes and hearty soups. More often than not, we often order takeaway to have a lochside picnic to the falls, soaking in the views as we unwind by the water.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can get muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall and near the viewpoints.
