Find the Legendary Loch Ness Monster on Your Next Trip to Scotland
No trip to Scotland would be complete without a visit to Loch Ness and a chance to try to see the legendary Loch Ness Monster, Nessie. The first written account of the Loch Ness Monster is from the sixth century in the “Life of St. Columba” where the Irish monk saved a man from a painful death by the beast. The modern obsession came from a couple’s sighting in 1933 when they claimed Nessie walked in front of the car.
Who knows if all this is attributed to Scottish whisky or an actual monster below the water’s surface. No matter what, a visit to Loch Ness and the towns around is worth it.
Tours of Loch Ness
Of course, there is no better way to try and see Nessie than getting out on the lake yourself! Most tours leave from Drumnadrochit and take you around Loch Ness and you will be accompanied by a guide explaining not only the lore of the Loch Ness Monster, but also the different types of technology used to try to uncover the secrets below the surface. And even if you don’t get a glimpse of Nessie, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than cruising on a boat!
Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition
If you’re concerned about boat sickness, or would just rather stay on land, the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition offers an abundance of knowledge and resources on what’s really happening in Loch Ness. You will learn all about the history of the Nessie sightings and how technology is being used today to see what could be living in the lake. See the 1987 sonar images that show something might actually be in the lake!
Loch Ness 360 Trail
If you have some spare time while traveling around Loch Ness, consider spending some time on the 360 Trail. Starting and ending in Inverness, there is 80 miles that take you around the lake to see all of the top sights. Of course, you don’t have to do the whole trail! But with parts of the trail suitable for meandering strolls and others for thrilling mountain biking, this is a great opportunity to get outside and see more of Scotland’s natural beauty if you have the chance!
Urquhart Castle
On the northern shores of Loch Ness in the village of Drumnadrochit sits the 12th century Urquhart Castle. Besides an impressive background on the lake and mountains, this was once one of Scotland’s largest fortresses. Throughout its history, extensions and rebuilds continued until the end of the 17th century when a devastating fire retired the castle. Fans of the show Outlander will enjoy seeing one of the beloved shows castles in real life as you enjoy a drink from the cafe along with beautiful lake views.
No matter if you see Nessie or not while you’re visiting Loch Ness, you will be completely enchanted by this beautiful part of Scotland.
