Loch Ness

The basics

Loch Ness is most often visited on day trips from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen that incorporate other Highlands attractions such as Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine), Stirling Castle, Caledonian Canal, Glencoe (Glen Coe), Rannoch Moor, Cairngorms National Park, and even Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Shorter half-day trips, which usually include a boat cruise on the lake, typically depart from Inverness, while cruise-ship passengers can take shore excursions from Invergordon. Motorized boat trips are the most common way for visitors to scour Nessie's lair, though it's also possible to paddle a canoe or kayak out on the loch, or even take a self-guided cycling trip.

Things to know before you go

• Nessie rumors began when an Irish monk caught sight of something unusual swimming in the lake's inky waters in the seventh century.

• For more background on the Nessie phenomenon, visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition at Drumnadrochit.

• Wear warm clothes, including a waterproof outer layer, as it can get cold on the water.

• Day trips from Edinburgh and Glasgow generally last around 12 hours.

• The Loch Ness Centre is wheelchair accessible, but most boat trips are not.

• Bring your camera so you can document any possible Nessie sightings.

How to get there

Loch Ness stretches between Inverness and Fort Augustus and is one of many such lakes located along the Great Glen. Tours from Inverness, Edinburgh, and Glasgow typically include round-trip transportation to cruise departure points such as Clansman Harbour, Dochgarroch, and Tomnahurich Bridge.

When to get there

Boat trips around Loch Ness run year-round, though they are weather-dependent. In summer, the main A82 thoroughfare between Fort William and Inverness sees a lot of traffic, and sightseeing cruises often sell out—so buy tickets in advance.

How to maximize your chance of a monster sighting

For the best chances of glimpsing the fabled Loch Ness Monster, choose a boat that is fitted with special onboard sonar systems to ensure Nessie doesn't swim by unnoticed. If you're worried the sound of a motor may disturb Nessie, opt for a canoe or kayak tour instead. And if water isn't your thing, the high lakeside perch that houses the ruins of Urquhart Castle makes for a great viewing spot, with uninterrupted lake panoramas.

How long should you spend at Loch Ness?

It depends on how you want to experience Loch Ness. If you just want to admire the lake from the shore, you only need 20 minutes or so. If you want to cruise on Loch Ness, walk around the area, or visit Urquhart Castle, you will need half a day.

What types of tours can you do of Loch Ness?

Tours include Loch Ness boat tours on the lake that introduce you to its history and legends (does Nessie sound familiar?); visits to the ruins of historic Urquhart Castle; walking tours along the banks of Loch Ness; and visits to nearby whisky distilleries. It's also a typical stop on guided tours of the Highlands.

Should you book Loch Ness tours in advance?

Yes, you should book Loch Ness tickets for tours in advance. It's one of Scotland's most-visited destinations, and tours often book up early, especially during the busy summer. Avoid disappointment by making arrangements ahead of time.

What is the best time to go to Loch Ness?

The best time to visit is between May and September, when Scotland's notoriously fickle weather is at its best. June, July, and August bring enormous crowds, however. A visit in May or September offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Is there parking at Loch Ness?

Yes, there is parking at various places around Loch Ness. Visitors can park in the large parking lot in the center of Fort Augustus, adjacent to the public restrooms and picnic area. Visitors can also park at the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit or Urquhart Castle.

Can I swim in Loch Ness?

Yes, but it is not advisable. Loch Ness is a very deep lake and bitterly cold all year round—rarely warmer than 41°F (5°C), which presents a high risk of hypothermia. Only very experienced outdoor swimmers should attempt a dip in Loch Ness.

Ways to explore

Most travelers visit Loch Ness on full-day or multi-day trips from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness. These typically incorporate other Highlands attractions such as Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine), Stirling Castle, Glencoe (Glen Coe), Cairngorms National Park, and even Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain, or the Isle of Skye. Shorter half-day trips, which usually include a boat cruise on the lake, typically depart from Inverness, while cruise-ship passengers can take shore excursions from Invergordon. Motorized boat trips are the most common way for visitors to scour Nessie's lair, though you can also paddle a canoe or kayak, or take a cycling trip.

Accessibility

The Loch Ness Centre is wheelchair accessible with adapted bathrooms, but most boat trips are not wheelchair friendly.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Midge repellent is a Highland summer essential. Also bring a card or contactless payment solution as the visitor center does not take cash.

What to wear

Wear warm clothes, including a waterproof outer layer, as it can get cold on the water.

Not allowed

Passing places are essential for using single-track roads as they allow oncoming traffic to pass: Never park in them.

Amenities

The Loch Ness Centre has restrooms; Drumnadrochit village has eateries, accommodation, and shops.

Address 

Loch Ness stretches from just south of Inverness to Fort Augustus. The Loch Ness Centre is in Drumnadrochit, about a 15-mile (24-kilometer) drive southwest of Inverness, but there are a number of other starting points for cruises including Dochgarroch and Clansman Harbour.

Driving

The A82 runs along the north side of the loch, connecting Inverness to Fort Augustus and then Fort William.

Public transportation

Options from Inverness to Drumnadrochit include the 17 bus, or the Scottish Citylink 919 or 917 coaches.

Best times to visit

The Loch Ness Centre closes only on December 25 and is open 10am–3pm November through March, 9:30am–6pm in July and August, and 10am–5pm at other times of year. Cruises run into the evening during summer and much less frequently in winter.

Best days to visit

If you’re visiting during summer, plan to visit midweek rather than at weekends if you can.

Best months to visit

Boat trips around Loch Ness run year-round, though they are weather dependent. Temperatures are warmest in summer, but the A82 thoroughfare sees a lot of traffic, and sightseeing cruises often sell out—so buy tickets in advance.

Special events

Fall (generally October) brings the Loch and Land Festival to the shores of Loch Ness, with a focus on active adventure, from archery to white-water sledging.