Inverness & Loch Ness

Inverness, the Highland Capital, is situated at the mouth of the River Ness at the north end of the Great Glen. A city with the atmosphere of a large town, Inverness has an attractive centre, numerous riverside restaurants, and a lively night life.

To the west, beautiful Beauly is an historic market town with some interesting shops, while to the east, the seaside resort of Nairn has a long beach and some great golf courses.

The Great Glen, running south west from Inverness to Fort William, links the east and west coasts of Scotland via the Caledonian Canal, a route used by fishing boats and pleasure craft. You can view Loch Ness from the A82 road on its north shore, from the much quieter south side, or from a cruise boat. The villages of Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus are popular local tourist centres.

To the north of Loch Ness lies the village of Cannich in wooded Strath Glass, at the head of which is beautiful Glen Affric and ancient Caledonian Forest, while to the southeast of Loch Ness there is rolling moor with rocky outcrops and hills, numerous lochs and small farms.

The Loch Ness area is perfect for exploring by car and bicycle, or on foot or horseback. You can also visit a wide range of monuments and attractions, golf, sail, canoe, dolphin watch, or enjoy one of the many events and festivals.