This short day tour lets you discover all the marvellous views and secrets of Loch Ness.
You leave Inverness and follow the Caledonian Canal to the source of the River Ness. Your guide takes you down the road less travelled to Dores, on the eastern side of the loch.
This tiny village boasts a beach with the most striking vista of Loch Ness and the Great Glen rift valley. Get your camera ready for your first photos of the mysterious waters and potential monster sightings before you continue your journey.
Just a short drive away is your next stop, the forest community of Foyers. Here, you can walk downhill through native pine trees to see the hidden-away Falls of Foyers. This stunning waterfall was a favourite spot for Robert Burns, and if you’re lucky, you may spot a dashing red squirrel.
Invigorated after a visit to the falls, you continue south. Driving on single-track roads and using passing places is a typical Highland experience. After a twisty drive through forested landscape, you arrive at Fort Augustus, the furthermost point of the tour. Here you can have your lunch and take a picture of the boats coming in through the Caledonian Canal.
Next, you venture to Invermoriston, where you can take a short walk to an old summerhouse with views of the river Moriston.
Whether you believe the legends or not, keep your eyes peeled for the monster or breath-taking vistas as we continue along the banks of Loch Ness. We know Loch Ness is all about Nessie, but the banks of the loch are home to another star; Urquhart Castle. This time-worn stronghold has witnessed some of the most dramatic chapters in Scottish history. Walk the grounds of the castle and listen to the echoes of battles reverberating in the ancient walls. And then enjoy getting closer to the mystery on an hour-long cruise of the loch.
Then, we continue along Loch Ness and return to Inverness in the early evening.
*The Loch Ness boat cruise is weather dependant and may be cancelled without notice.
**Jacobite Cruise on Loch Ness and entrence to Urquhart Castle included in the tour price.
From 1st April 2025, you will stop for lunch in Drumnadrochit.*
Please note that Urquhart Castle will be closed 4th to 6th November 2024 inclusive, and if your tour is on these dates, we will be unable to stop and explore the grounds. Instead, your cruise route will be changed to accommodate this. We apologise for the inconvenience.