28 best things to do on Loch Ness Scotland

Loch Ness in Scotland is probably the country’s most famous loch (or lake if you’re not familiar with this Scottish word).

Loch Ness is known all over the world for its mystical creature that may or may not live within it: The Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie if you want to make her sound a little cuter.

Though many people whizz up to Loch Ness on a trip to Loch Ness from Edinburgh or Glasgow and then continue on to more beautiful Scottish landscapes like the Isle of Skye, and other destinations on their Scottish Highlands road trips, I’d recommend giving yourself a little bit more time to visit this area and discover some of the best things to do on Loch Ness.

The first time I visited the Inverness Loch Ness region was back in 2015 and I wasn’t that impressed, to be honest. Sure, the gloomy weather didn’t help, but I was more appreciative of Loch Lomond up until I returned to Loch Ness and spent a bit more time in the area as part of our year of travel.

We spent a month living in Inverness which is about 30 minutes away from Scotland’s famous loch and spent many an evening and weekend visiting Loch Ness.

Now, I have a whole new appreciation for this loch and its beauty, so if you’re looking for the best things to do on Loch Ness then you should read on!

Map of what to do at Loch Ness

Below is a map of the best things to do in Loch Ness. It includes everything I’ve mentioned below and can be used when planning your trip there.

Just click the image (or here) to open up the map in Google Maps and from there you can save it to your account so you can see the markers when you’re out and about.

Best things to do on Loch Ness

Cruise on Loch Ness

If you’re headed to Loch Ness, taking a cruise on the loch is one of the best things to do on Loch Ness.

Getting to experience the vastness of this loch while on a tour where you cruise Loch Ness shows you a different side to the beauty of this part of Scotland and it’ll give you the best chances of spotting the elusive Nessie!

Loch Ness holds a special status as the UK’s largest lake by volume, containing more water than all lakes in England and Wales combined and you’ll get a feel for just how big it is on a Loch Ness boat cruise.

If a motor-powered boat is what you’re after for a relaxing trip on the loch, this Loch Ness cruise gets great reviews. You’ll leave from the Caledonian canals and make your way west until you find yourself on the loch. You’ll then go all the way to the western end of the loch to see Urquhart Castle before returning to the dock.

Alternatively, combine your visit to Urquhart Castle with a cruise which is a great way to experience two of the best things to do at Loch Ness in one!

For something more active, rent a canoe and travel around the loch at your own pace. If you’re up for a longer journey, the Great Glen Canoe Trail, which runs from Fort William to Inverness, is a rewarding 4-5 day trip.

Cycling Around Loch Ness

I love biking as it’s a quicker way to see more of the area you’re exploring and renting a bike near Loch Ness is a fantastic way to explore the area surrounding the loch.

A popular choice for things to do near Loch Ness is to bike the Loch Ness 360º trail, which goes around the entire loch, starting and ending in Inverness. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a complete Loch Ness sightseeing tour by bike!

If you like something a bit more rugged and prefer to mountain bike, be sure to try the South Loch Ness trail.

Loch Ness Centre

In the small village of Drumnadrochit, you’ll find the interesting Loch Ness Centre where you can learn all about the loch and the mysteries surrounding it.

The center has been open since 1980 and was recently renovated and includes different exhibitions such as the geology of Loch Ness and stories of hoaxes and sightings of Nessie.

There’s a cafe on site by the Loch Ness museum and there’s also the Great Glen Distillery just next door where you can learn more about the gin-making process and try some samples.

• Opening hours: 9.30 am to 5 pm, daily July and August, 10 am to 5 pm otherwise
• Tickets: From £14.35 for adults (cheaper to buy online in advance)

Visit Urquhart Castle

On the western edge of Loch Ness is Urquhart Castle which is believed to have been constructed between the 13th and 16th centuries!

The castle has been standing here during momentous times in Scottish history such as during the Scottish Wars of Independence and then during the clan feuds.

The castle fell to ruins in 1692 as a result of the Jacobites but you can still see the parts of it that remain.

Historic Scotland takes care of the castle now and has opened it. up to visitors so you can wander through the castle, explore the winding staircases and views of Loch Ness, and learn more about what took place in this area.

Alternatively, combine your visit to Urquhart Castle with a cruise which is a great way to experience two of the best things to do at Loch Ness in one!

• Opening hours: 9.30 am to 6 pm, daily (until 4.30 pm in winter)
• Tickets: From £13 per adult, advanced booking recommended.

Try Whisky at the Glen Ord Distillery

Whisky is one of Scotland’s most famous drinks (the other being Irn Bru!) and there are many better places to try whisky in Scotland than at the Glen Ord Distillery.

The Glen Ord Distillery is a little bit of a detour from Loch Ness and is found on Scotland’s Black Isle which is just north of Inverness. It’s one of the best Loch Ness places to visit if you like whisky!

The distillery is said to be the birthplace of Scottish whisky and this distillery was established in 1838 using local barely.

The new Singleton whisky visitor experience is inspired by a passion for making perfectly balanced, delicious whisky and is based within the Glen Ord Distillery, one of three storied distilleries that make The Singleton brand.

At the Singleton Whisky Visitor Experience, you can take a tour to learn more about the whisky-making process and see the copper stills, and the aging barrels and then finish up with a tasting of some whiskies. Advanced booking is highly recommended.

• Opening hours:
• Tickets: From £15

Interesting info: Whisky has no ‘e’ if you’re talking about Scottish whisky. It’s only Whiskey when it’s Irish!

Catch a Sunset at Dores Beach

When you think of Loch Ness, beaches might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, the pebble-laden shores of Dores Beach to the eastern end of the loch have some incredible views and offer a spot to relax and sit by the lake.

If you dare, take a refreshing dip into the loch. Remember though that the loch stays pretty chilly the whole year round so don’t expect it to be warm!

I recommend taking a walk around the loch a little bit to find the benches and secret lochside spots that are a bit more private than the main beach.

Grabbing a drink at the Dores Inn is also a great idea for an evening thing to do at Loch Ness. The pub sits right on the shore and does some good meals and is the ideal place for a pint.

Oh, and don’t leave without meeting Steve Hunter, the famous Nessie Hunter. He’s been on the beach since 1991, and his life revolves around the Loch’s mysterious resident. When he’s not on the lookout, he crafts Nessie figurines from clay. Grab one as a unique memento and share a chat; Steve’s stories never disappoint.

Invermoriston Bridge and River Moriston Falls

As you drive along the A82, you’ll come across the Invermoriston/Telford Bridge and River Morriston Falls both of which are two places worth seeing near Loch Ness.

The falls pour over giant boulders and make a lovely background as you view them from the old stone bridge.

This bridge was made by Scottish engineer Thomas Telford in 1813 and it once connected key points around Loch Ness. Now, it serves as a peaceful pedestrian pathway surrounded by beautiful woods.

If you’re visiting Loch Ness in autumn I personally think this is one of the best times to come here since the colours in the trees are so pretty! It’s a great idea for things to do around Loch Ness.

Falls of Foyers

The Falls of Foyers is a sight you shouldn’t miss that’s tucked away on the Loch’s quieter south side. It’s a short hike to get face-to-face with the falls which plunge down 140 ft into a pool below.

If you’ve been experiencing a wet and rainy trip to Scotland then head here to see one of the benefits of all that rain!

Scottish poet Robert Burns was so entranced that he penned a poem here in 1787. Today, this location remains a favorite of both locals and visitors.

Visit Inverness

Inverness, the capital of the highlands, is the UK’s most northern city. It sits on the shores of the River Ness and the sea and there are lots of fun things to do in Inverness.

From the beautiful Victorian market, to live music in one of the city’s many bars, wandering g the Ness Islands, and watching dolphins at Chanory Point, be sure to check out my guide to visiting Loch Ness for more ideas for your Scotland trip.

It’s a great place to base yourself if you haven’t found accommodation right by the loch. It’s also the starting point for the famous North Coast 500 road trip which takes you further into the highlands.

Falls of Divach

A trip to Loch Ness isn’t just about the legendary monster; it’s about the beautiful surroundings too.

Just a couple of miles away from Drumnadrochit the Falls of Divach is something of a hidden gem near Loch Ness.

You can take a walk from the village itself, or head straight to the parking area for the falls and then take a short and easy walk out to them.

Since there’s no charge to see these falls I think it’s one of the best things to do in Loch Ness for free.

Step Back in Time at Beauly Priory

As legend goes, Mary Queen of Scots was so enchanted by Beauly that she proclaimed, “C’est un beau lieu” (it’s a beautiful place) – and you’re bound to feel the same.

The remains of Beauly Priory which was founded in the 13th century, are a reminder of the monks from Dijon who used to live here.

These days you can wander among the historical stones, admire the Mackenzie family tombs, and see the 800-year-old sycamore near the entrance.

It’s a cool place to visit if you’re looking for free things to do at Loch Ness.

• Opening hours: Always open
• Tickets: Entry to the priory is free.

Canoeing at Aigas Gorge

A super fun active adventure near Loch Ness is to go canoeing on the Aigas Gorge.

You can book at our through Adventure Highland.

As you canoe in the waters around the beautiful Aigas Gorge you’ll get incredible views and find that the river is actually quite calm since it’s controlled by the nearby dam.

You can get off partway through your canoeing adventure and wander around the island in the middle and keep an eye out for wildlife on the shore too!

Tea & Cake at Cameron’s Tearoom

Every adventure calls for a pit stop, and Cameron’s Tearoom is just the place.

Here you’ll find loads of great dishes to fill you up after some adventure or warm you up if it’s cold and rainy outside.

Plus, they have a bunch of vegan meals and treats too.

Don’t forget to say hello to the resident Highland cows!

• Top tip: Reserve your table in advance as it can get busy here!

Experience the Magic of Nessieland

When it comes to things to do at Loch Ness with kids, the best Loch Ness activity is definitely taking a trip to Nessieland!

This mini theme park in Drumnadrochit has loads of Nessie-themed attractions for kids.

There are giant Nessie statues and lots of information about the various rumours surrounding the loch and. themonster that may or may not live within it.

It’s nothing up-to-date or anything that’ll blow you away, but it’s kind of fun if you lean into the kitchness of it.

• Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm
• Tickets: £8 per adult

Plodda Falls Glen Affric

Just 15 miles west and slightly north of Loch Ness, you’ll find Glen Affric.

Known as Scotland’s most picturesque glen it’s where you’ll find the incredible Plodda Falls.

We spent a day exploring the best things to do in Glen Affric and Plodda Falls was my favorite find from that day.

You’ll need to drive 2 miles on an unpaved road to get to the car park for Plodda Falls but our little Fiat 500 managed it, so most cars will be fine; just take it slow to help avoid flat tires!

Once at the car park, it’s a short walk over to a platform that juts out over the top of the waterfall. Look down if you dare!

You can also walk a loop trail down towards the bottom of the falls through the forest which is super cool and gives you a different look at the falls and just how tall they are.

Visit Cawdor Castle & Gardens

Cawdor Castle is known for a legend involving a donkey who made the decision of where to place this castle. As legend has it, the donkey was carrying a full chest of gold and then decided to rest underneath a hawthorn tree.

And that spot?

Well, that’s where the castle ended up being built. In fact, you can still see the hawthorn tree when you tour the castle.

THese days you can wander the castle and gardens and easily spend a whole day here touring around and relaxing in the gardens with apicnic.

• Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm daily
• Tickets: £14.50 per adult

The Clansman Centre

On Loch Ness’s southern you’ll find the village of Fort Augustus and the Clansman Center.

The center is in a restored 19th-century schoolhouse and offers a peek into 17th-century Highland life.

• Opening hours: 11 am to 4 pm daily

Step into the Fairytale Reelig Glen

Close to Loch Ness, Reelig Glen is a magical forest, once owned by the Fraser family.

Known to some as the Fairy Glen, it is where you’ll find some of Scotland’s tallest trees, including the Douglas Fir, which once held the title of Britain’s tallest tree.

One of my favorite Loch Ness things to do is to take a walk here amongst the trees. You’ll find waterfalls, stone bridges, babbling brooks and you might even spot a red squirrel if you’re lucky!

Hiking at Loch Ness

If you also love hiking, then you’ll find plenty of walks at Loch Ness to keep you busy.

There’s the Loch Ness 360º trail: a multi-day trail that stretches for 80-miles circling the entire Loch. Not up for the whole stretch? No worries! This trail is split into six sections, each perfect for a day’s hike.

There’s also the less crowded South Loch Ness trail which can also be split into sections.

If you’re short on time, try walking parts of the Great Glen Way instead which runs all the way from Inverness to Fort William. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, hike to the top of Meall Fuar-Mhonaidh, the area’s highest hill.

For something easier in the forest, the Abriachan Forest or the River Oich Walk are both great options as well as some of the other trails listed in this guide to what to do at Loch Ness.

Navigating while on the trail: You can find this hike on AllTrails which is my usual go-to for planning my hikes, navigating, checking trail conditions and, if hiking solo, making sure others know I’m safe. The OS Map app is one of the best hiking apps for trails in the UK and is just like having hundreds of OS maps in your pocket!

Grab lunch at Bog Cotton Cafe

All that hiking can work up an appetite! For a hearty meal, make a pit stop at Bog Cotton Cafe near Glen Affric.

You’ll find this cafe at the Cannich campsite and it serves up great food including soups and sandwiches. There’s also a little shop attached to it which is perfect for getting some Scottish souvenirs!

Take a catch-and-cook fishing trip on Loch Ness

Experience an unforgettable catch-and-cook fishing tour on Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands.

Guided by a local skipper, both seasoned fishermen and beginners can indulge in hours of fishing on the waters of the loch.

Once back ashore, the day’s catch will be artfully prepared over an open fire by ans served with mouth-watering sides like chive, new potato, creme fraiche salad, and garlic toasts.

If the fish prove elusive, worry not, as alternate delicious foods are at the ready for your lunch instead.

This is one of the most unique things to do on Loch Ness and super fun too!

See the Canal Locks at the Caledonian Canal Centre

Journey through history at the Caledonian Canal Centre in Fort Augustus.

Built in the 19th century, this impressive waterway stretches approximately 60 miles, connecting the North Sea to the Atlantic. While only one-third is man-made, it seamlessly integrates with natural lochs like Loch Dochfour, Ness, Oich, and Lochy.

There are five lock gates where boats ascend or descend to match the canal’s varying levels.

And, if you’re intrigued by the history of the Caledonian Canal, the Centre offers a deep dive into the canal’s construction and significance.

You can also stay overnight here.

Try local delicacies at Corner on the Square

For food enthusiasts browsing the shelves of the Corner on the Square is definitely one of the best things to do in Loch Ness Scotland.

This café serves mouth-watering homemade dishes and there is plenty of fresh produce to take home with you if you’re staying in one of the lodges near Loch Ness or other self-catering accommodation.

You’ll find cheeses, cured hams and more.

Enjoy the Views From the Suidhe Viewpoint

A drive up the B862 road will lead you to the Suidhe Viewpoint which looks down over Loch Tarf.

This spot is one of the best places to go for some excellent views of the pretty little loch just off the roadside.

The viewpoint makes up part of the Loch Ness 360 Trail so you’ll come across it if you’re hiking that. But, if you’re not, then making your way to the viewpoint itself is still worth doing.

Up here is one of my favorite places for wild camping at Loch Ness too!

Visiting the Villages around Loch Ness

Loch Ness has several cute villages around it which are worth exploring. You’ll find pubs, shops, cafes, and restaurants in each of these villages making them worthwhile stops as you explore the Scottish Highlands.

• Fort Augustus: At the Loch’s southern end this is one of the bigger villages that’s full of history. Here you’ll find the Caledonian Canal lock gates, shops, restaurants, and the ancient abbey.
• Dores: a picturesque village located on the northern shores of Loch Ness, known for its scenic views. It’s a popular starting point for those wanting to explore the loch’s mysteries.
• Drumnadrochit: A hive of activity, this village offers a range of shops, mouth-watering eateries, and intriguing attractions that beckon every traveler.
• Whitebridge: Step back in time in this village, which is where you’ll find the Wade Bridge, an architectural masterpiece from the 1720s. Built post the Jacobite uprisings, it’s now an important piece of history.

Check out the views from Allt na Criche

The view from Allt na Criche on the northern edge of Loch Ness is absolutely beautiful. This is where you’ll find my faovirte view of Loch Ness! I think it’s the best place to see Loch Ness along with the Loch Ness view point Fort Augustus has which is more loch-side.

You can park up on one of the pullouts off the side of the road and then there are several routes you can take.

There’s one that follows the river, bringing you to a plateau that offers a stunning view of Loch Ness and the surrounding area. It’s a pretty strenuous one hour hike to get there, but well worth it!

Along the way you’ll also pass by several waterfalls and little pools of water along the way as well.

Drive down the B862 & B852 on Loch Ness’ south side

Most people who visit Scotland drive on the main road the A82, that goes from Glasgow to Inverness. It’s on the north side of Loch Ness and has beautiful views. But, there’s another way!

Try the B862 and B852 roads on the south side of Loch Ness. They’re smaller and mostly have just one lane. But they have amazing places to see, and you can find more awesome Loch Ness walks and hidden spots there.

Even if you just stay in your car and stop once in a while to look around (especially near Foyers on the B852), it’s a great ride.

Plus, on this side, you can enjoy the Loch Ness without many people around!

Best tours to Loch Ness

If you’re staying in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness and aren’t renting a car in Scotland, then you can still visit Loch Ness and other parts of the Highlands including the Isle of Skye by booking a tour.

These tours include your return transport and often some of the entrance fees to castles.

Below are some of the top-rated Loch Ness tours that I’d recommend.

• Edinburgh: Loch Ness Cruise, Glencoe Tour & 2 Highland Walks: Experience some of the most eye-catching locations in the Scottish Highlands, visit the world-renowned Loch Ness, take a cruise to find ‘Nessie’, and walk among the Scottish wilderness on this adventurous day trip from Edinburgh.
• From Inverness: the Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Tour: Marvel at the sharp geological formations, crumbling coastlines, and wind-swept valleys of the Isle of Skye. Visit historic Eilean Donan Castle. You’ll also pass by Loch Ness along the way on this day tour.
• Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and Highlands Tour: Discover the magnificent beauty of Loch Lomond National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the Great Glen, Loch Ness, and Pitlochry on a guided small group tour from Glasgow.
• **Alternate Loch Ness Tour by Secret Highlands: Discover locals-only spots and secret hidden gems around Loch Ness with this private tour around the area.

The Story of the Loch Ness Monster

Loch Ness is not just known for its beauty but also for a mysterious creature that many believe lives in its waters – the Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie for short.

Nessie is a famous legend, like Bigfoot or the Yeti, and stories about this monster aren’t new.

The first tale comes from a book written in the 6th century about Saint Columba who tells about a monster in the lake and even meeting it!

The stories became popular again in the late 1800s when more people were visiting Scotland. They began reporting seeing something strange in Loch Ness.

One of the most talked-about sightings is the “Surgeon’s Photograph” from 1934, which was said to be the first picture of Nessie. But, many years later, people learned it was just a trick and not a real photo.

Even though there’s no solid proof Nessie exists, lots of people have tried to find her. They’ve used special underwater sound machines, checked the lake’s DNA, and more.

So far, nothing has shown for sure that Nessie is real.

Still, that’s what makes the story so fun! When you’re at Loch Ness, keep looking and have your camera ready. Maybe you’ll be the lucky one to spot Nessie!

Interesting Loch Ness Facts

Want to know more about Loch Ness? Here are some interesting facts about this famous Scottish loch.

• Named After a River: Ever wonder how Loch Ness got its name? It’s named after the River Ness, which flows out from its northern end and meets the sea near a place called Inverness. And guess what? “Inverness” in Scottish Gaelic means “mouth of the River Ness”.
• Mysterious Waters: If you’re trying to see deep into Loch Ness, good luck! Its waters are so murky due to a lot of peat. You can barely see a few feet below the surface.
• How big is Loch Ness?: Stretching 22.5 miles, Loch Ness runs from Lochend in the north all the way to Fort Augustus in the south.
• Second in Size: By looking at the surface area, Loch Ness comes second in size to another Scottish loch – Loch Lomond. But Loch Ness wins when it comes to depth!
• Chilly Waters: Thinking of a swim? Better prepare for some cold! Loch Ness stays around 5ºC (that’s 41 Fahrenheit) throughout the year. It won’t freeze over, but it sure will feel freezing if you dive in on a summer day!
• Huge Volume: Loch Ness holds the title for the largest amount of water in the British Isles. With 7.5 km cubed of water, it has more than all the lakes in England and Wales together!

Best accommodation on Loch Ness

If you’re looking to stay near Loch Ness, below is an overview of some of the best places to stay.

If you want something special, I have a whole post on the best Loch Ness accommodation with hot tubs. They’re ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring the area!

• Loch Ness Bunk Inn: Budget-friendly hostel at Loch Ness which is ideal if you’re looking for cheap places to stay near Loch Ness.
• Cabins at Old Pier House: 3 beautiful private chalets right on the shore of Loch Ness with incredible views and everything you need for a fantastic stay.
• Craigdarroch Hotel: Beautiful rooms with loch views at this 4-star rated hotel with a fantastic on-site restaurant and pub.

How to get to Loch Ness

Loch Ness is one of Scotland’s iconic destinations, and you can reach it in a variety of ways depending on where you’re coming from. Below are some basic directions from some of Scotland’s major cities.

Driving to Loch Ness

If you’re driving to Loch Ness you’ll find some basic directions below. Time and miles will vary depending on exactly where along the loch you’re going.

I recommend arranging your trip to visit Loch Ness by car as that way you’ll be able to visit more of the Loch Ness attractions and hiking trails without being beholden to a limited public transport schedule.

• From Glasgow to Loch Ness: Head north on the M80, then continue on the A9 to Inverness. Follow signs for Loch Ness. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours.
• From Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Start on the M90, then switch to the A9, heading north towards Inverness. Again, follow the signs for Loch Ness. This route also takes roughly 3.5 hours.
• Loch Ness from Aberdeen: Head west on the A96 towards Inverness. Once in Inverness, follow the signs for Loch Ness. The trip takes around 2.5 hours.
• From Inverness to Loch Ness: Loch Ness is just a short drive away. Head southwest on the A82, and you’ll reach the northern tip of Loch Ness in about 30 minutes.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Public Transport to Loch Ness

• From Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen: All these cities have direct train services to Inverness. Once you’re in Inverness, you can catch a local bus to Loch Ness.
• From Inverness: Numerous buses run daily from Inverness to various locations around Loch Ness. Check the local bus schedules for specifics.

Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!

Flights to Loch Ness

• International Travelers: If you’re coming from abroad, the closest airport to Loch Ness is the Glasgow Airport (Glasgow International Airport) and Edinburgh (Edinburgh Airport). From there, you can either rent a car or take a train to Inverness.
• Domestic Flights: Inverness Airport is well-connected with other parts of the UK. There are regular flights from major Scottish cities to Inverness. Once you arrive at Inverness Airport, you can rent a car or use public transport to get to Loch Ness.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

When is the best time to visit Loch Ness?

There’s never really a bad time to visit Loch Ness, but depending on what you want to do, certain times of the year are better than others. Below is a bit of a breakdown of what to expect at Loch Ness throughout the year.

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures start to warm up, ranging from 6°C (43°F) in March to 12°C (54°F) in May. Rain is common, but the landscape starts to bloom. It’s less crowded than in the summer months, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery without too many people around. Accommodation prices are reasonable, but it’s always a good idea to book in advance. Spring is ideal for hiking though do expect rain!
• Summer (June to August): The warmest time of the year, with temperatures ranging from 14°C (57°F) to 18°C (64°F), though sometimes higher. Longer daylight hours mean more time to explore. This is peak tourist season. Expect more people, especially in July and August. Accommodation prices are at their highest and availability can be limited, so book well in advance. Boat tours, festivals, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer is a great time for picnics and enjoying the lake’s beauty.
• Autumn (September to November): Temperatures start to drop, ranging from 15°C (59°F) in September to 8°C (46°F) in November. The fall foliage makes the landscape particularly picturesque. The number of tourists starts to decrease, making it a more peaceful time to visit. Accommodation becomes more available and prices may drop. This is a great time for photography, thanks to the autumn colors. Also good for hiking and exploring nearby forests.
• Winter (December to February): The coldest months, with temperatures often hovering around 4°C (39°F) to 6°C (43°F). Snowfall is possible, especially in the surrounding highlands. Fewer tourists visit during this time so accommodation is widely available and often at discounted rates. Limited boat tours, but the (sometimes) snow-covered landscape offers a different kind of beauty.

Overall, the best time to visit Loch Ness depends on your preferences. If you want warmer weather and don’t mind the crowds, summer is ideal. For a quieter experience with a picturesque landscape, consider autumn.

Always remember to check specific accommodation and activity availability for the time you plan to visit.

FAQs about what to do at Loch Ness

Final thoughts on Loch Ness things to do

There is far more to do at Loch Ness than just try and spot the Loch Ness monster as you’ve hopefully seen from this guide to Loch Ness in Scotland.

From hiking around Loch Ness, to visiting castles, and taking a boat cruise on Loch Ness there is fun around every corner.

If you’re looking for more things to do in Scotland, be sure to check out this guide to the best walks in the Cairngorms National Park, as well as the best things to do in the Cairngorms, and what to do in Aviemore as well as this guide to the best Aviemore accommodation.

You could also extend your trip to Scotland to the beautiful Glencoe. Don’t forget to check out these photography spots in Glencoe, or these awesome Glencoe walks.

Visiting Glasgow and checking out these things to do in Edinburgh is also a must for your Scotland trip!