It’s fair to say that most people, at some point during their Loch Ness holiday, will stare out onto the water and have a quick look for Nessie. You know, just in case. But the smart ones will know exactly where to come if they want to guarantee a close encounter with the monster. Well, a model of one anyway. And that’s the charming village of Drumnadrochit on the shores of Loch Ness.
The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition
Nessieland in Drumnadrochit – officially known as the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition – is the key attraction to this village. Here you can get up close to the myths and legends of the loch that go beyond just a monster. For example, did you know that in 1940 a Wellington Bomber crash-landed on Loch Ness? You can find out all about its history and how it was recovered here at the exhibition. This visitor attraction has been rated five-stars from the Scottish Tourist Board and is fully endorsed by Scottish Natural Heritage. It’s definitely worth a visit.
Highland Games
Drumnadrochit enjoys several community events throughout the year, including its own Highland Games. The Glenurquhart Highland Games, which take place annually in Drumnadrochit, have all the games you would expect. Hammer throwing, tug-o’-war and of course tossing the caber all take place at the end of August each year.
But if all that sounds a bit exhausting, then remember you can always relax and unwind at one of the many bars and restaurants in the area. From hyper-local beer to delicious whisky, there’s always something to try. And with most places offering seasonal and local produce, your taste buds will be sure to thank you for stopping in Drumnadrochit for a bite to eat.
Getting to Drumnadrochit
If you are looking to come from Inverness to Drumnadrochit, it’s easy! On public transport, you can just hop on the number 17 bus. It only takes around half an hour, and you get to enjoy stunning Highland scenery on your way. The same bus will take you back to Inverness after your visit.
For those looking to come from Fort William to Drumnadrochit, the Scottish Citylink service 919 can take you there. From Fort William bus station, you can catch a ride through to Drumnadrochit that takes just under two hours. This is two hours of Highland beauty and lochside travels, so it’s like no journey you take in a city!
Drumnadrochit is of course accessible by car, whether your own or a hire. And for those of you planning to walk or cycle the Loch Ness 360° trail, you will find the village along Section 1.
The Highlands of Scotland, when the low mist settles and an evening light filters through the clouds, can be a mystical, almost celestial place. If you are looking for a supernatural Scotland story, then we’ve got one for you here. This is the strange tale of the Glenmoriston footprints.
Take yourself back to 1827, under a tree near the village of Glenmoriston on the south west side of Loch Ness. A preacher is spreading the word of God to a group of unconvinced folk, and things are not going as planned…
Rev. Munro’s footprints
“…these footprints will remain forever.”
Rev. Finlay Munro was an unkempt man who had previously drawn the ire of the ministry for his interpretations of the Evangelical Gospel. He was known to travel the small towns and villages of the Highlands spreading the word. Often, he would be met with respect and listened to politely, often by large congregations.
That was not the case when he came to Glenmoriston.
This was a time when preachers would not have a bible or anything else to help them in their task. Instead, they would use the world around them. At Torgyle, near Glenmoriston, The Rev. Munro took a local birch tree as his example. The tree had three branches, which he used to explain the Holy Trinity to the gathered folk.
To this, there was much heckling and scoffing. His preaching wasn’t going down well, and he began to get angry. Soon, he erupted, telling those gathered that none of them would die a natural death. And it is said that, eventually, none of them did.
Furthermore, Rev. Munro decided to show how certain he was that what he spoke was the truth. He said, “To show a testimony that I am speaking the truth, these footprints will remain forever.”. Remember, this was two hundred years ago and remarkably, the footsteps can still be seen to this day!
Even weirder, in 1907 there was a terrific storm in the area. The storm would normally be expected to rip trees up from the roots, but the beech tree that Finlay Munro used only had it’s top blown off. This was unusual, but it is said that if the whole tree had been blown away – roots and all – it would have taken the footsteps with it. This is taken as further proof that the footsteps are, somehow, protected.
Visit on your Loch Ness 360° walk
The story doesn’t end there! The footsteps are today protected by a small cairn – a collection of stones. This is because in 1976, they were stolen. Tourists are the suspected culprits. However, the footsteps at some point reappeared, reaffirming their indelicate mark on the ground.
The cairn built around the Glenmoriston footprints.
You can visit them on your walk on the Loch Ness 360° trail. It’s something you can do any time of the year – even winter. To get there, cross Torgoyle bridge if you are heading east. Around a quarter of a mile further on you will find a little parking area on the right hand side of the road as you approach from the bridge. There will be a gate to the left. The cairn and footsteps are visible almost as soon as you are through the gate.
Visiting the Glenmoriston footprints on your Highland holidays is a great excursion. Remember to let us see your photos via our social media!
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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 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.
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 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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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!
