Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(
01320-366277;
www.cruiselochness.com
;
adult/child £12.50/8; hourly 10am-4pm
Apr-Oct, 1 & 2pm only Nov-Mar)
One-hour cruises on Loch Ness accompanied by the
latest high-tech sonar equipment so you can keep an underwater eye open for Nessie.
ADRIAN SHINE
Leader of the Loch Ness Project, and designer of the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition
What do you recommend seeing around Loch Ness?
Urquhart Castle
If, having learned some of the inner secrets of the loch at the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition (
Click here
), you want to see it through new eyes, you cannot do better than visit Urquhart Castle (
Click here
)
.
Perched on a rocky promontory jutting into Loch Ness, its exhibits recount the castle's history from a vitrified Pic-
tish fort to its role in the Scottish Wars of Independence. The view from the Grant Tower is truly breathtaking.
Fort Augustus Locks
At the southern end of the loch there is a flight of locks on the Caledonian Canal (
Click here
) built by the great engineer Thomas Telford. It is always interesting to watch vessels being worked up this 'stair-
case' of water. British Waterways have a fascinating exhibition halfway up.
Waterfall Walks
Starting from the car park at Invermoriston, cross the road to find a magnificent waterfall, then go
back to take the path down the river through a mature beech wood to the shores of the loch. There is another famous
waterfall at Foyers on the southeastern shore of Loch Ness, and Divach Falls up Balmacaan Rd at Drumnadrochit.
Sleeping & Eating
HOTEL
Lovat£££
(
01456-459250;
www.thelovat.com
;
Main Rd; d from £121; )
A boutique-style
makeover has transformed this former huntin'-and-shootin' hotel into a luxurious but eco-
conscious retreat set apart from the tourist crush around the canal. The bedrooms are spa-
cious and stylishly furnished, while the lounge is equipped with a log fire, comfy arm-
chairs and grand piano.
There's an informal brasserie here, as well as a highly acclaimed restaurant (five-course
dinner £45) which serves top-quality cuisine.
Morag's Lodge£
HOSTEL
