Tag: great glen way

  • Great Glen Way

    Great Glen Way

    Stretching 73 miles from Inverness in the east to Fort William in the west, the Great Glen Way cuts through the heart of the Highlands. It offers visitors one of the finest and most dramatic walks in the country. Sweeping through valleys, around lochs and -should you wish it – up munros, it offers a fantastic introduction the long distance walking and the Scottish countryside. 

    the Great Glen Way

    Walking the Great Glen Way

    If you are looking to start long-distance walking, then the Great Glen Way is one of the best introductions to it. Suitable for beginners, it can take between 4-7 days to walk. Even for more experienced walkers, it’s a great trail because you can add in excursions up munros should you wish. Of all the Highland walking routes, this one is suitable for all.

    The Great Glen Way follows the Great Glen. This is a geological fault line that cuts diagonally through Scotland. Don’t worry – there won’t be any earthquakes to ruin your trip! The route was opened in 2002, and has seen hundreds of thousands of people use it since then. Most people walk along sections of it, but a significant proportion take up the challenge of walking the whole route. 

    Most of the route traces the path of the Caledonian Canal, and you can visit all 29 locks and 10 swing bridges. The length also includes some of the most beautiful bodies of water in the UK – Loch Lochy, Loch Oich, Loch Dochfour and Loch Ness. Cycling he Great Glen Way is also possible, and a popular thing to do for hundreds of people each year.

    Some of the route takes you up into Scottish woodland, meaning the variety of wildlife along the trail can be huge. From red squirrels to otters, ospreys to golden eagles – if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of some of Scotland’s most legendary wildlife. 

    Highlights of the walk

    Walking the Highlands means you will get to see many fascinating spots. If you are planning on walking the route to or from Fort William, you will come across Neptune’s Staircase. This marvel of engineering raises the canal 19 metres over a quarter of a mile. There are eight locks altogether, and it takes a canal boat an hour and a half to traverse them all. This is a brilliant place to stop a while and take it all in. 

    Invergarry Castle, on the shore of Loch Oich, is another great place to visit thanks to its tumultuous history. Initially the seat of the Chiefs of the Clan MacDonell of Glengarry, it was burned down in 1654 by Oliver Cromwell’s troops during the Civil War. It was also twce visited by Bonnie Prince Charlie. The castle now stands as a ruin and scheduled monument in the grounds of Glencarry Castle Hotel. 

    Close to Inverness, make sure you visit Urquhart Castle too. It’s one of the most visited spots by the loch, and quite rightly too. It also makes for a great lookout spot for Nessie!

    Enjoying the Great Glen Way

    If walking isn’t your thing but water is, then the Great Glen canoe trail might be what you are after. It is an opportunity to see the route from a different perspective, and enjoy some relaxing time on the canal. However you enjoy the Great Glen Way, make sure you take your camera and let us see your photos on our social media pages!

  • Caledonian Canal

    Caledonian Canal

    Stretching from Fort William in the west to Inverness on Scotland’s east coast, the Caledonian Canal welcomes visitors all year round. It travels along some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the country. Constructed in the 1800s by famed engineer Thomas Telford, the canal is 60 miles long. It offers a bountiful display of wildlife, heritage and history to everyone who enjoys it. So by foot, bike or boat, make sure you stop by the canal on your next visit to the Scottish Highlands. 

    Fort Augustus and The Caledonian Canal

    History of the canal

    The idea of the canal was to improve communication and trade lines in Scotland. The government wanted to set up new trading stations with baltic countries. Also, they wanted better means of transport for goods and people across Scotland. It would also mean ships could avoid the dangerous waters around the north of Scotland, and instead travel inland from coast to coast. Talks first began in 1773, with the area surveyed by James Watt, the famed engineer known for his steam engine.

    So, in 1803 under the watch of Thomas Telford, building began. It was initially thought it would take 7 years to build, but like most large-scale engineering projects, it took longer. However the canal was finally completed in 1822 at a cost of £910,000 (around £116,000,000 in today’s money). 

    It has stood through the years as a testament to Scottish hard work. 22 miles of canal were built, with the rest of the journey along lochs – Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Ness. The canal has been popular throughout this time, and remains a hub of activity for tourists and locals alike. 

    A loch on The Caledonian Canal

    Enjoying the canal

    If you want to walk along the Caledonain Canal, you are in for a treat. With excellent towpaths, forest excursions and stunning views, it’s a walk to remember. You can walk the entire length of the canal should you wish. 

    For those just visiting Inverness and Loch Ness, then Section 1 of the trail takes you along the canal from Inverness to Loch Ness. This was one of the first sections to have been built. Walking the Caledonian Canal can be done in sections. The whole route takes in parts of the Great Glen Way and South Loch Ness Trail – stunning areas to spend time in. 

    The Caledonian Canal

    Caledonian Canal boat hire

    To fully experience a canal, it’s often best to get on a boat and drift down it. This way you can experience the sights and sounds on the water. It’s a taste of how life was hundreds of years ago to the men and women who worked along the canal. 

    There are plenty of boats, cruises and yachts available for hire to suit your taste. Be sure to book in advance, especially in the summer months when cruises can become very busy. 

    Caledonian Canal holidays have always been a popular option for a break. If you’re looking for somewhere calm to take a break, or somewhere full of activities (or maybe a bit of both?) then a holiday by this canal would suit you perfectly. 

    So take a trip down to the Caledonian Canal and explore this extraordinary landscape on your next visit.

  • 5 More Unmissable Highland Views

    5 More Unmissable Highland Views

    If you are coming to Scotland for some beautiful Highland views, then you are spoiled for choice! We’ve already suggested 5 stunning viewpoints to take in, but how could we possibly stop there? We asked around, and here are 5 more viewpoints which we think you should definitely get on your to-see list. This might mean coming back to Loch Ness a few times – and that’s a good thing!

    Fair Haired Lad’s Pass

    View over Loch Ness from the Fair Haired Lads Pass on the Great Glen Way

    If there’s something that Scotland is good at, it’s coming up with brilliant names for places. And so, the Fair Haired Lad’s Pass. This is the high point on the South Loch Ness Trail, and offers magnificent views out over Loch Ness. If you’re looking for Highland walks that are remote with amazing views out towards Urquhart Castle, this is the place for you. 

    The name, by the way, is believed to come from the Gaelic “Cadha a’ Ghille Bhain”, meaning the Pass of the Fair Haired Lad. The story goes that a pensioner, collecting his first pension, got lost in the area one stormy night and died. A sad tale for such a beautiful spot.

    You can take in the Fair Haired Lad’s Pass by travelling along Section 5 of the Loch Ness 360° Trail

    Borlum Bay

    a view over loch ness near borlum bay

    Not all great views need you to climb a summit. The view from Borlum Bay up the length of Loch Ness to Dores is magnificent. It’s on the north side of Loch Ness near Drumnadrochit and offers wonderful views across the water. On a sunny day, you will see what looks like an island at the Dores end. But it’s just a mirage!

    While you’re there, be sure to visit Urquhart Castle. It’s one of the busier attractions of the Loch, but certainly worth a trip. And definately spend some time in Drumnadrochit too – especially at the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition to find out more about this beautiful stretch of water.

    You’ll pass through this area when on Section 2 of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Craig Dunain

    Walking trail through the woods near Inverness, Great Glen Way

    Craig Ferguson, Craig David, Craig Charles – they’re all good, but none of them offer as good a view as Craig Dunain! A craig in Scotland is a rocky hill, and Craig Dunain, just outside Inverness, offers lovely views down its slopes towards Inverness city. 

    It’s popular Inverness walk with locals and if you have any dogs, they can run freely around here. You will pass through Dunain Community Woodland, which gives you the chance to see some forest wildlife.

    You will pass this area on Section 1 of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Allt na Criche

    People standing on a Caledonian Canal key at Fort Augustus

    The view of Fort Augustus and Loch Ness from the Allt na Criche viewpoint on the Great Glen Way is spellbinding. Meaning ‘boundary stream’, Allt na Criche is just north of Fort Augustus and offers a woodland experience. There’s a steep and strenuous rise, but once at the top you can admire the view, including down onto Fort Augustus Abbey. It’s a wonderful place to sit and enjoy the scenery.

    You will pass this area on Section 3 of the Loch Ness 360° Trail

    Balchraggan Farm

    View of Loch Ness from the South Loch Ness Trail near Balchraggan

    Balchraggan farm sits on the South Loch Ness Trail, and offers a wonderful vantage point of the area. After some Highland hiking you can look down to the towering rocky bluffs of Dun Dearduil above Inverfarigaig and over Loch Ness. For history enthusiasts, there are what is left of two Iron Age forts on Dun Dearduil. 

    You will pass this area on Section Five of the Loch Ness 360° Trail

    So what are you waiting for? With plenty of stunning vistas around Inverness and Loch Ness, get out there and enjoy the Highland views!

  • Winter in the Highlands

    Winter in the Highlands

    If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in the winter in Inverness and Loch Ness then read on and find out more. Here we are situated in one of the most stunning areas in the world. As a result, we have an array of wonderful places to visit. So we have compiled a list of some of the places we recommend you visit on or around the Loch Ness 360 trail.

    River Ness and Ness Islands

    Whatever time of year you visit, the River Ness and Ness Islands have something magical about them. And there is something extra special about exploring them in the Winter. Your warm breath in the cold winters air and layers of clothes to warm you. Here you will take in the sounds of the river and its wildlife along the way on a crisp and chilly day. Wander across the array of Victorian bridges that connect each island. Here you can explore each one’s hidden treasures. Hidden bays, cocooned clearings, mature trees with benches dotted around are a few things you will find. And you can even explore this wonder at night as lights romantically illuminate the way. Well maintained pathways lead along the river and around the islands. So it is a great walk for all to enjoy during an Inverness winter!

    Urquhart Castle

    If you fancy a bit of history then why not visit Urquhart Castle this winter? Open from November to March, daily from 9.30 am to 4.30 pm with last entry being 3.45 pm, you can enjoy a fascinating day out. And all on the banks of Loch Ness. Once this was Scotland’s largest castle witnessing many conflicts during its 500 years as a medieval fortress. Changing hands many times it eventually met its demise in 1692. The Britsh Government forces blew it up so that the Jacobite rebels could no longer use it as their fortress. And during the winter it offers a spectacular Scottish setting. Bare trees, low moody light and sometimes snow-dusted hills envelop the loch. All can be viewed from this historical ruin. A truly spectacular sight to behold and one of the best places to visit in the winter!

    Glenmoriston Footprints

    If historical tales of the fascinating unknown excite you then you may want to pay a visit to these footprints. Said to have been imprinted in the ground East of the Torgolye bridge, by a preacher. No grass has grown on them since his sermon back in 1827! And you can see these footprints to this day. Here you can take a short walk along to the Cairn where this phenomenon lies. It is quite fascinating! You can read more about this intriguing story here.

    Cameron’s Tearoom

    Cameron’s Tearoom is a delightful place to head to on a winters day. Here you can snuggle up and enjoy some delicious food and explore the lovely range of gifts in their shop. And as you do you can look out over the stunning Scottish winter scenery. Enjoy your food and watch the Highland Cows enjoy theirs. Furthermore, you can pop outside and see the rescued reindeer residents who always enjoy a pat. Situated on the southside of Loch Ness between Inverness and Fort Augustus this tearoom lies a quarter of a mile from the Falls of Foyer. It’s a perfect stop for refreshments after a trip there. So head along and enjoy a hearty meal and some of Morag and her staff’s divine home baking!

    An Talla by Loch Ness

    Always a great place to stop, An Talla sits on the banks of the Caledonian canal. Here you can enjoy a first-class shopping experience with high-end gifts. Inspired by Thomas Telford the Loch Ness collection offers a beautifully crafted range of gifts. And they are only available to buy here. Furthermore, you can dine in their restaurant and enjoy a range of seasonal dishes. So head along on a chilly winters day for some retail therapy.

    Caledonian Canal

    Here at the Caledonian Canal, you can enjoy a lovely winters walk, cycle or run. Stretching through part of the Great Glen way this towpath links the Great Glen Way with the South Loch Ness Trail offering a choice of routes to explore. Be it a more exerted hike or a simple stroll you can choose whatever you fancy. Whatever you do along this unique waterway, you will enjoy an array of spectacular scenery and an abundance of wildlife. Another of the best places to visit this winter!

    Drummnadrochit

    Another great place to visit during winter in the Highlands is Drumnadrochit. Not only does it have a truly Scottish name it offers a truly Scottish experience. Located on the northern shore of Loch Ness this village is surrounded by glens, including Glen Urquhart and Glen Moriston. And it is here that Nessie Land and the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre are located. Perfect for a ‘dreich’ Scottish day as there is much to do. And makes for a great family day out.

    Drumnadrochit in the Highlands

    John Cobb Memorial

    Another great place to visit on a winters day in the Highlands is the John Cobb memorial. It was here on Loch Ness that John Cobb died trying to break the water speed record. Having broken the Land Speed record three times he successfully reached 206.89mph on the first run on the water. However, due to rules saying time speed records require two runs, he attempted the second one. And this was when he tragically lost his life after hitting an ‘unexplained wake’ in the water on 29th September 1952. Nessie enthusiasts believe the monster had something to do with this. Now, you can visit the memorial of John Cobb. Just 1 mile south of Urquhart Castle, overlooking the loch sits a beehive-shaped cairn. Known as the ‘Gentle Giant’ this quiet unassuming man will always be remembered at Loch Ness.

    Loch Ness 360 trail

    And of course, there is the Loch Ness 360 trail to add to this list. All the above destinations are accessible from the trail. However, you can explore any section of this wonderful route at your own accord. Each section offers its own bit of magic. Whatever you chose to do you will not be disappointed. During the winter months, the views are spectacular. This really is one of the best places to visit in the winter. So come along and see what it is all about!

  • Autumn in the Highlands

    Autumn in the Highlands

    Best Places to Visit in the Autumn when on the Loch Ness 360 ° Trail

    If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in the Autumn, when on the Loch Ness 360 ° Trail, then read on. Here we have pulled together a list of where we think you would love to visit when you visit us here in the Highlands. Crunching leaves, earthy smells and a canvas of red, gold and yellow… a Scottish experience to behold.

    The Great Glen Way

    No matter what time of year you visit, The Great Glen Way is truly spectacular. This fabulous trail forms part of the North Side of the Loch Ness 360 trail leading you through some of Scotlands most beautiful scenery. Connecting Fort Augustus and Dores you can walk run or cycle it and are guaranteed to have an experience of a lifetime. Given this side of the trail is high up you get magnificent views of the Autumn scenery and Loch Ness below. Furthermore, you can choose to explore the full length of this section. Or you can simply meander parts of it at your own leisure. Snaking through the dramatic landscape the beauty of this trail in Autumn is breathtaking. Absorb scenes, as you ramble along… golden trees licking the lochside and river, enveloping picturesque pathways and carpeting the landscape around you. High on the north side of the trail colours of yellow and gold blanket the valley, hugging the loch. As a result, making this one of the best Autumn destinations in Scotland.

    The River Moriston surrounded br Autumnal trees on the Great Glen Way
    The River Moriston in Autumn

    Deer Rutting Season

    Being one of our famous occupants in Scotland and drawing many visitors, this is a great time of year to spot deer. Autumn marks the beginning of the Deer Rutting Season. To explain, this is when red stags gather groups of female deer to mate with. And of course, with other stags to contend with, frictions rise for the female attention. Thus resulting in a battle. During this dramatic act the stags roar and lock antlers in an exhausting feat. Consequently, they can lose up to 20% of their body weight. And the winner then has the task of covering his ladies! If you are lucky, from September to early November, you can hear the sounds of this battle as it commences as you are unlikely to see it. But remember, if you do, stay safe, stay quiet, keep a distance, keep dogs on leads and respect these magnificent animals.

    Two stags rutting with one another
    Stags rutting

    Invermoriston’s famous bridge

    As you head north of Fort Augustus, 7 miles along, you enter the small village of Invermoriston. Arching across the River Moriston, and built-in 1813, is the Thomas Telford bridge. Formally, it was used to bridge the road between Drumnadrochit and Fort Augustus. Since a new bridge has been built and the public can now walk across the original and stand in awe of the dramatic scene that unfolds beneath you. As you can imagine this place is spectacular in the Autumn time. Trees cocoon the ravine and beneath the falls put on an exuberant display. Additionally, at this time you can watch the salmon leaping as they make their way upstream to reproduce. Early morning and evening, especially after rain are the best times to see this in action.

    Invermoriston Thomas Telford bridge surrounded by Autumnal tress
    Invermoriston Thomas Telford bridge in Autumn

    Cruise your way along Loch Ness

    There is no better way to absorb a large expanse of Autumn landscape than with a cruise along Loch Ness. Jacobite Cruises in Dochgarroch and Cruise Loch Ness in Fort Augustus offer a fabulous experience. As you cruise the waters the vista before you is dressed in Autumnal colours. Therefore, making this one the best places to see autumn leaves in all their glory. And if you are lucky you may spot our famous monster lurking beneath the dark waters beneath you trying to catch a glimpse!

    A view up Loch Ness from a cruise boat
    A view from a Cruise going along Loch Ness

    Falls of Foyer

    South of Loch Ness is the breathtaking Falls of Foyer. Here this dramatic gorge is home to a spectacular waterfall and is one of the best places to visit in the Autumn. A short walk along a well-maintained path guides you down a steep slope. Here you end up at a viewpoint overlooking the falls. Gasp in awe as this 140ft waterfall plunges to the deep, dark pool below. Trees and vegetation burst from the surrounding rocks and landscape, dressing this scene in colours of red, gold, yellow and brown in the Autumn. And a little drive on you can stop for refreshments in a magical tearoom. Cameron’s Tearoom serves up delicious food in a spectacular, secluded location and is well worth a visit.

    The Falls of Foyer in the Autumn
    Falls of Foyer in Autumn

    Loch Tarff

    Coming from Fort Augustus and just before the Falls of Foyer lies Loch Tarff which is stunning in the Autumn. Encased by rolling hills and lush landscape you find your own little piece of heaven. In Autumn the loch is swathed by Autumn colours creating a place of beauty and tranquillity to escape to. Here you can walk a section of the south section of the Loch Ness 360 trail. From here you have a spectacular view as the path meanders gently up the hillside. Blanketed beneath you is an array of bursting vibrant colour.

    Loch Tarff in the Autumn with golden bracken in the foreground
    Loch Tarff in Autumn

    Dores

    No trip is complete without a trip to Dores. Situated on the East side of Loch Ness this famous pebbled beach is home to the famous viewpoint up the loch. Additionally, it is home to the famous Nessie hunter Steve Feltham whose caravan nestles on the shores. Furthermore, you can have a go at some Nessie hunting yourself through the binoculars stationed on the beach. And if you want to stretch your legs you can follow a circular walk then enjoy some refreshments at The Dores Inn. Given its location the Autumnal views here are spectacular. Mountainous hills drop either side of the loch crowning it in flourishing colours of Autumn.

    The pebbled beach at Dores
    Dores beach with the famous view up Loch Ness

    Wildlife

    And of course, any location you visit this Autumn you can look out for some of our famous wildlife along the way. Red squirrels, deer, pheasants, salmon, Highland cows, otters, eagles are just a handful of what you can spot. As you meander the golden landscape and absorb the views keep an eye out for what may make a special appearance. Important to point out is respecting animals and their environment so they can live in peace while we enjoy seeing them.

    A red squirrel
    A red squirrel among Autumn leaves

    Loch Ness 360 Trail

    Much of the surrounding areas of Loch Ness can be explored via the Loch Ness 360 trail. And there is no better time than Autumn to explore when the landscape is at its most spectacular. Explore all six sections or simply sample parts. Whatever you choose to see and do we can guarantee that Autumn in the Highlands is an unforgettable experience. We look forward to welcoming you!

    Running in the Scottish Highlands
    The Loch Ness 360 Trail

    Accommodation

    So if you plan to come and visit this Autumn you will be looking for accommodation. And with an abundance of places to stay, you are spoilt for choice. Here you can explore a variety of options such as hotels, self-catering, camping, guesthouses, hostels and more. Wherever you choose to stay you are sure to have a memorable trip when you visit this stunning part of the world.

  • Highland Villages on the LN360° Trail

    Highland Villages on the LN360° Trail

    Villages to visit around Loch Ness

    The Loch Ness 360° Trail is a full circuit route around the vast expanse of water that is Loch Ness. Covering some 80 miles, it passes through many interesting places. While exploring the trail, be sure to stop off at one of these Loch Ness villages. Enjoy the scenery, grab a bite to eat and take in some local history …

    Abriachan

    Found in Section One of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Abriachan is a tiny village on the north side of Loch Ness, along the Great Glen Way. Here, you’ll find Abriachan Nurseries and Garden, where you can enjoy woodland walks in the tranquil gardens, or visit the nursery, where you can buy from a huge range of plants. There are also many nearby woodland and moorland walks laid out by the Abriachan Forest Trust. There are a number of different trails to explore, from short strolls to longer hikes.

    Signposts at Abriachan on the Great Glen Way

    Drumnadrochit

    The end point for Section One and starting point for Section Two of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Drumnadrochit sits on the north side of Loch Ness, along the Great Glen Way. Famous for its links with the Loch Ness Monster, attractions include Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, Nessieland and Urquhart Castle. The village green has tourist shops, pubs, cafes and good local facilities. Nearby hill Meall Fuar-Mhonaidh is a great local climb with stunning views on a clear day.

    View of Urquhart Castle from Loch Ness

    Invermoriston

    The end point for Section Two and starting point for Section Three of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Invermoriston is a small village on the north side of Loch Ness, along the Great Glen Way. The Invermoriston Falls and Thomas Telford’s Bridge are popular attractions. There are also a few shops and cafes. Climb to the top of Sròn Na Muic for spectacular views of Loch Ness.

    Old stone bridge at Invermoriston with river flowing below and people walking across

    Fort Augustus

    The end point for Section Three and starting point for Section Four of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Fort Augustus lies at the bottom of Loch Ness, where the Great Glen Way and South Loch Ness Trail meet. A busy little village on the Caledonian Canal with lots of tourist shops and places to eat and drink. Many people enjoy watching the boats coming through the locks on the canal from here.

    Water gateway in Fort Augustus

    Whitebridge

    Found in Section Four of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Whitebridge is a very small village on the south side of Loch Ness, along the South Loch Ness Trail. There is a hotel with bar and restaurant. The main attraction here is the Wade Bridge, an 18th century bridge which forms part of a series of military roads, constructed under the direction of General George Wade.

    Historic Bridge at Whitebridge, South Loch Ness

    Foyers

    The end point for Section Four and starting point for Section Five of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Foyers is a small village on the south side of Loch Ness, along the South Loch Ness Trail. Visit here for the Fall of Foyers, a magnificent waterfall near the shores of Loch Ness. There is a café and shop here too.

    The Falls of Foyers, waterfall on the River Foyers

    Dores

    The end point for Section Five and starting point for Section Six of the Loch Ness 360° Trail.

    Dores is a tiny village on the south side of Loch Ness, along the South Loch Ness Trail. Popular for Beach Walks with great views of the loch. Local pub, The Dores Inn offers refreshments and homecooked meals.

    View of Loch Ness from Dores beach with flowers in the foreground
  • LN360° : The Story So Far

    LN360° : The Story So Far

    The Loch Ness 360° Trail is a long-distance walking and cycling route, developed by Visit Inverness Loch Ness. To create this epic route, which loops around the whole of Loch Ness, we joined two great Scottish trails together. Here’s the story so far …

    2002 … The Great Glen Way is launched

    The first of these trails is the Great Glen Way. A long-distance path, which opened in 2002 and is maintained by the Great Glen Ways Partnership (The Highland Council, Scottish Canals and Forestry Commission Scotland). 79 miles / 127 km in total, it follows the Great Glen, from Inverness to Fort William via Fort Augustus, on the northern side of Loch Ness.  Taking 4-7 days to complete, the route is mainly low-level, yet challenging in sections. It quickly became popular with walkers and cyclists and is one of Scottish Natural Heritage’s Great Trails.

    Cyclist passing The Viewpoint sculpture on the Great Glen Way high route

    2011 … We introduce The South Loch Ness Trail

    Next came the South Loch Ness Trail in 2011. Visit Inverness Loch Ness developed this trail, reaching from Loch Tarff to Inverness. The path is 36 miles / 58 km long and follows the wilder, more unspoilt south side of the loch, with varied scenery and superb views down onto the famous waters.  

    Walker on the South Loch Ness Trail between Whitebridge and Foyers

    2018 … The two trails form The Loch Ness 360° Trail

    At this point, there was the Great Glen Way starting in Inverness and passing through Fort Augustus on the way to Fort William. And the South Loch Ness Trail, which started in Loch Tarff, just above Fort Augustus and went up to Inverness. So, there was just one additional path needed to connect Fort Augustus and Loch Tarff. This would allow walkers to leave the Great Glen Way at Fort Augustus, and continue along the South Loch Ness Trail back to Inverness. Thus creating a full loop around the world-famous Loch Ness. What a great idea!

    In 2018, Visit Inverness Loch Ness opened a final section of path, linking Loch Ness’s two spectacular trails together. We called this new complete loop, starting and ending in Inverness, the Loch Ness 360° Trail. Split into six recommended sections, walkers can do the whole loop over six days, one section per day. Cyclists may be able to complete two sections per day.

    Loch Tarff on the South Loch Ness Trail in summer

    2022 … Loch Ness Challenge coming soon

    The latest chapter in our story, is the launch of our exciting new sporting event. Happening for the first time this spring, the Loch Ness Challenge is a three-day festival of running and cycling, which offers the choice of:

    1. Running three marathons over three days around the whole of Loch Ness. (Or, running one or two of the marathons).

    2. Runnning an ultra marathon around the full 129km of the trail. 

    3. Cycling the full trail in the mountain bike challenge.

    The challenges will test participants’ strength and stamina. Most the trail is off road on a mixture of built trail, rough tracks and forest paths. The event takes place between Friday 20th and Sunday 22nd May 2022. If you’re interested in entering, you can find out more here.

    Man running along the Loch Ness Trail in winter

    That’s The Story So Far …

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  • Loch Ness 360˚ Trail and Inverness Mountain Biking

    Loch Ness 360˚ Trail and Inverness Mountain Biking

    A man and friends biking in the woods.

    Touring Loch Ness and Inverness mountain biking is a thrilling way to see the area. See more in a day than walking, and visit areas you can’t reach by car. Up hills and along forest paths, it’s a thrilling ride that takes you along the loch’s banks and through beautiful Highland towns and villages. 

    The Loch Ness 360˚ trail is one of the newest outdoor trails in Scotland, and has been planned out so that it is as accessible to mountain bikers. There are just a few minor tweaks to make to the standard walking trail to ensure safety for all. 

    For convenience, the trail is split into 6 sections. On mountain bike, we recommend following two sections per day to get the most out of your trip. This means it can be done over a long weekend, or over a few days throughout the year. Just pick a couple of sections that take your fancy and ride! The best thing is, the trails change so much throughout the year from spring to winter that doing them at different times can feel like completely different rides. 

    We’ve written a full description and overview of sections all the routes, but below highlights some of the changes you will need to make on a mountain bike.

    A man pauses on his bike in the hills.

    LN360˚ Sections 1 & 2

    If you plan on starting the trail from Inverness, you’ll take the route of the Great Glen Way. Opened in 2002, Scottish Natural Heritage designated it as one of Scotland’s Great Trails. It’s a stunning route, and you will begin it in front of Inverness Castle. You’ll cross the Caledonian Canal and cycle away from Inverness and towards Loch Ness. 

    As you continue cycling, Inverness will fade into the distance. You will head along towards Drumnadrochit. Follow the guidance on the section 1 route as written – there are no changes required for mountain bikers. 

    Section 2 does require a modification. After you set off from Drumnadrochit, you will head towards Invermoriston. At stage 3, we advise mountain bike users to select the Great Glen Way low route here. 

    LN360˚ Sections 3 & 4

    On the second day of the trail, you will begin in the lovely village of Invermoriston. There is a Thomas Telford bridge here that is worth a look before you set off. Follow the trail set out in the main section. The only amendment here is on your way to Fort Augustus, take the alternative  low-level route. Just use the signage for Great Glen Way low route.

    Section 4 of the trail starts in Fort Augustus. It’s worth spending some time in Fort Augustus – there are some excellent pubs serving terrific local food. You can watch the canal activity as you eat. Once re-stocked, you can continue up towards Foyers. There is a part of Loch Ness 360˚ trail between Inverfarigaig and Foyers which is not suitable for cyclists. The alternate route is via Glen Lia (Gleann Liath).

    A group of friends chatting on their bikes.

    LN360˚ Sections 5 & 6

    On the final leg of this Loch Ness 360˚ cycle trail, you will begin your day in Foyers. This is a great spot to get in some Nessie hunting! Once you start your journey, continue along towards Dores. There is an alternative route here that is suitable for cyclists.  Take the low-level alternative between Torbreck Woods and Dores, and not the route over Drumashie Moor. The best route for mountain bikes can be taken by following the cycle route at the side of the B862 to Scaniport (Sustrans Route 78).

    In Section 6, simply enjoy the trip all the way back to Inverness as described – no alterations, no amendments, just some excellent trail riding!

    We hope you love your time around Loch Ness and Inverness mountain biking. Remember to stay in touch and let us know of any problems, hidden gems or excellent service you get. And share your photos with us on Facebook and Instagram – we love seeing them!