Experience The Highlands and Islands

t Falls of Foyers thundering down the hillside to Loch Ness

Following the path of a huge geological fault that slices the landscape in two, the Great Glen, also known as Glen More or Glen Albyn, forms a scenic route from Inverness on the east coast to Fort William on the west. The glacial rift valley was created when the landmass split and moved 400 million years ago, and now comprises four lochs; the famous Loch Ness, home of the elusive monster, Loch Dochfour, Loch Lochy and Loch Linnhe. The Caledonian Canal links the lochs, and has been a shipping channel as well as a popular tourist route since 1822. Hiring a boat or taking a leisurely drive are ideal ways to see the Glen.

Loch Ness

Deep, dark and forbidding, Loch Ness stretches for 23 miles (37 km). Learn about Loch Ness’s history and legends at the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, or visit ruined Urquhart Castle, which offers a fine view for photographers and monster spotters.

t Autumnal view of Loch Lochy from Laggan Locks on the Caledonian Canal

Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition

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Urquhart Castle

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∑ historicenvironment.scot

Experience The Highlands and Islands

The Loch Ness Monster

First sighted by St Columba in the 6th century, “Nessie” has attracted attention since photographs – later revealed to be faked – were taken in the 1930s. Though serious investigation is often undermined by hoaxers, sonar techniques continue to yield enigmatic results: plesiosaurs, giant eels and too much whisky are the most popular explanations. The Loch Ness Centre presents the photographic evidence and a wide variety of scientific explanations.