Loch Ness

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    Loch Ness: Tours & Tickets

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    5 Loch Ness Monster Myths and Legends

    Scotland's Loch Ness Monster has been the center of myth and tall tales for 1500 years. Though the Highlands are spectacular to see, its famous loch continues to lure visitors in hopes of a chance encounter with this elusive creature of the deep.

    • What lurks beneath the surface

      1. What lurks beneath the surface

      Some say that Scottish lore about mythological creatures living in its waters, such as kelpies, selkies and "water horses," fuels the fire of a monster prowling Loch Ness.

    • The saint that saved the day

      2. The saint that saved the day

      The first encounter was in 565 AD, when St. Columba drove a water beast away with the power of his voice and prevented it from devouring one of his companions in the water.

    • A grainy picture paints a thousand words

      3. A grainy picture paints a thousand words

      Road work along the shore in 1933 seemed to rouse Nessie from the deep, and a year later a black-and-white photo revealed a slender neck and small head emerging above the surface.

    • Jurassic proportions

      4. Jurassic proportions

      Nessie's features ironically resemble a plesiosaurus, a sea reptile that looks like a lizard with flippers and lived in the early Jurassic period 200 million years ago.

    • Let sleeping monsters lie

      5. Let sleeping monsters lie

      Extensive use of technology has yet to find the mythical monster. Though if ever caught, ancient legend predicts a catastrophic end of the region--it's food for thought!

    Planning Your Visit

    • Getting to Loch Ness

      If you're renting a car, take the A82 highway to reach the visitors' center in Drumnadrochit, which is on the northwest shore of Loch Ness. If you're relying on bus service, there are daily departures from Inverness (30 minutes) and Fort Williams (1 1/2 hours).

    • Loch Ness activities

      The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition in Drumnadrochit exhibits the history of the region and the hunt for Nessie. The biggest attraction is, of course, a one-hour cruise on Loch Ness, complete with sonar equipment and underwater cameras just in case. Apart from the monster-mania, Urquhart Castle is nearby and worth a visit. Though blown to bits in 1692 and left in ruins, it provides amazing views of Loch Ness from its elevated location.

    • When to go

      Scotland's weather is variable. You could wake up to grey and rain, but then bask in sunshine by lunchtime. May and June are recommendable months to visit, as the weather is generally fine, and the days are long. Consider September, as well, when the crowds are less and fall is in the air.

    Good to know

    • When should I visit?
      Hours will depend largely on your means of transportation. Tours of the loch will have limited times.
    • Is it expensive?
      Prices vary by tour or mode of transportation, as well as the activities you plan to do there.
    • Will I need a guide?
      It's not necessary, but for a short visit, a guide can point out the best locations to see.
    • How to get there
      Loch Ness is reachable by car or bus, with many tours passing through from major cities.
    • Additional information
      Be prepared for rain while visiting and pack accordingly! Pay attention to transportation times when planning your visit!

    What people are saying about Loch Ness

    Overall rating

    4.5 / 5

    based on 9,859 reviews

    This was a really great tour! Really well organised, especially with the Covid regulations! It was a really easy and chilled experience and we got to visit some amazing places! Great for a solo traveller as well, this was my first solo experience and now I can’t wait to do more! The driver guide Callum was great as well! I couldn’t fault the trip! If you’re thinking about booking in the future, don’t second guess it, just go for it! You won’t regret it! :)

    From Glasgow: 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness Tour Reviewed by Kirsty, 08/11/2020

    A great day out, despite the restrictions and the pouring rain! Brian was a brilliant tour guide and took great care to give us all an enjoyable experience, with plenty of photo opportunities and local tips to make the most of the day. With everything taken care of, we were free to relax and take in the amazing scenery. Highly recommend for those who want to see a bit more of Scotland

    Loch Ness & The Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh Reviewed by Hannah, 27/10/2020

    Amazing experience, wonderful landscapes and breathtaking nature! I recommend it on 1000%. If you want to take a getaway from the busy city, take your way to Highlands. The guide was friendly and well prepared, the whole travelling was nice and relaxing! Many thanks to Rabbie’s for this amazing experience!

    Loch Ness & The Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh Reviewed by Ivana, 27/10/2020

    Absolutely amazing, tour guide Jamie was the best!. Stories were executed brilliantly...such Story telling with passion, enthusiasm is a rarity! Look after that guide. He's absolute gold and a credit to your company!. Will be back next year Jamie.

    Loch Ness & The Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh Reviewed by lewis, 01/11/2020

    Absolutely fantastic if I could give more stars I would. James our driver was amazing funny and very knowledgable guy, thank you so much for a fantastic experience will defo reccomend and be coming back to Edinburgh in the future x

    Loch Ness & The Highlands with Hotel Pick-Up from Edinburgh Reviewed by , 01/11/2020

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