Loch Ness is situated in the Scottish Highlands, stretching south west from Inverness for some 40 kilometres to Fort Augustus. Loch Ness is most famous for the Loch Ness monster or ‘Nessie’, a proposed prehistoric resident of the loch. Stories of Nessie persist because the water in Loch Ness has very poor visibility due to the peat deposits in the soil and also because of the vast body of water the loch holds.
Containing a greater volume of water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined, Loch Ness is also 230 metres deep, offering plenty of space for fresh water wildlife, whether prehistoric or not.
The Loch Ness Exhibition Centre is near the banks of the loch at Drumnadrochit and explores the various cultural and historic aspects of the Loch Ness monster phenomenon. Boat cruises operate at various points around the loch, giving a great opportunity for some monster hunting. Whilst Nessie may remain elusive, what is guaranteed are fantastic views and sights of a stunning natural landscape.
There are many attractions of Loch Ness other than Nessie. Urquhart Castle occupies a picture postcard location on the banks of the loch, near Drumnadrochit, and Cherry Island is an iron-age, manmade Crannog which forms a small island on the loch near Fort Augustus.
Both Inverness and Fort Augustus form excellent bases from which to explore the loch and both have a wealth of amenities and services for visitors, but most notably in Inverness, the capital of the highlands. In addition to all the cafes, bars, pubs, and restaurants, a wide selection of accommodation options are available from hotels to campsites and bed and breakfasts.
A popular way to experience the loch and surrounding area is to stay in one of the well appointed Loch Ness holiday cottages presented here. With the freedom to come and go as you please, a Loch Ness holiday cottage offers an excellent romantic break for two, or for a family or group in one of the larger Loch Ness holiday cottages. Remember your camera in case Nessie joins you on your holiday.
