Famous as the home of the Loch Ness Monster, Loch Ness is one of the world’s most beautiful lakes and the region offers plenty of other tourist attractions aside from the creature, often referred to as Nessie, that is said to reside in its waters. However it is the potential of sighting the legendary Nessie that draws many people to Loch Ness. The first sighting of Nessie dates back as far as 585 and although sightings have continued to be reported over the centuries, little is known about this so called Loch Ness Monster other than it is a large and powerful yet gentle beast with a long neck.
Loch Ness begins in the village of Loch End and it is here where you will find a number of attractions including Aldourie Castle, birthplace of historian and politician James MacKintosh and in the village of Abriachan, the nursery is a must-see. The Abriachan Nurseries is a lovely garden that also features a small cemetery home to a 14th century gravestone and the ‘marriage stone’ a site where couples pledge their love and commit to being married for a year, at the end of which time they could go their separate ways if they had no children.
No matter where you go in Loch Ness, it’s hard to escape the legend of Nessie and the village of Drumnadrochit is no different. Here you’ll find a couple of Loch Ness exhibitions along with a life sized statue of Nessie. There are plenty of dining and entertainment options in town and if chasing mysteries is what you’re after, one of the hotels is said to be haunted. This village is also home to Scotland’s second largest chestnut tree which is known as the ‘hanging tree’ and is where many criminals met their fate.
However if you’re after something a little less gruesome, the scenery is absolutely stunning and you can spend ages strolling around the streets and taking it all in. However if you’re after the best views in town, look no further than Urquhart Castle. Resting on the banks of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is actually the ruins of one of Scotland’s largest castles. Renowned for its panoramic views of Loch Ness, it is a popular tourist attraction.
