Loch Ness: Day Trips and Tours from Inverness

The Highlands in Scotland are a magical area near Inverness where myth and history meet. The best example of this is Loch Ness, where the legendary Loch Ness Monster (affectionately known as Nessie) resides and has fed imaginations around the world.

Explore one of the deepest fresh water lakes in Britain, running along the Great Glen valley, on a day trip to Loch Ness from Inverness.

In the area around Loch Ness, visitors will find many castles and picturesque villages to explore, while enjoying the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

Here's everything you need to know about Loch Ness, one of the most thrilling day trips from Inverness.

How to get to Loch Ness from Inverness?

Loch Ness is located about 20 kilometers southwest of Inverness in the Highlands and is easily accessible by public transportation, car or taxi.

From Inverness to Loch Ness by car

The easiest way to get to Loch Ness by car is via the B862 towards Dores, which takes about 15 minutes. The road heads all the way to the lake, so you cannot miss it.

Alternatively, you may approach the loch from the A82 main road. This route is slightly faster, but also busier with traffic.

From Inverness to Loch Ness by bus

The number 16 towards Foyers from the Inverness Bus Station on Margaret Street will take you to Inverfarigaig, on the east side of the loch.

You may also take the 917 towards Portree or the 919 towards Fort William and get off at Bunloit on the western side. The journey to both destinations should take about 40 minutes.

Guided tour to Loch Ness from Inverness

In case you would like to avoid public transportation or driving, you can book a guided tour to Loch Ness from Inverness. Most tours depart from the Inverness Bus Station on Margaret Street and last from a couple of hours to a full day.

What is the typical itinerary?

A typical tour of Loch Ness will begin in Inverness at a pre-arranged meeting point in the morning. From there, you will be driven by bus to the lake, while stopping along the way at sites, such as Urquhart Castle.

When you reach Loch Ness and depending on the tour you have booked, you will embark on a boat cruise in the lake, passing by places like Fort William.

During the trip, you will have an opportunity to “spot” the illusive sea monster and enjoy the view of the lake.

After the cruise, you may continue your guided tour further into the Highlands, before finally returning to Inverness.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Loch Ness?

There are several types of day tours to Loch Ness from Inverness available.

Guided tours to Loch Ness from Inverness

This tour of Loch Ness starts in Inverness and will cover many villages and sites of interest in the area, such as Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus Abbey, Foyers and Culloden Battlefield.

During the day, you will get to explore many of these scenic and historic areas in the Scottish Highlands. A number of tours may also include a cruise in the lake.

Cruise of Loch Ness from Inverness

Should you desire to explore the natural beauty of the lake itself, you may book a cruise of Loch Ness. These round-trip cruises typically last about 1 to 2 hours and depart from Clansman Harbour or Dochgarroch Lock.

During the sightseeing cruise, you will get to enjoy the view and even participate in the search for the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Private tours to Loch Ness from Inverness

For a more exclusive excursion of Loch Ness and the Highlands, consider booking a private tour. Typically, these include transportation to many places off the beaten path and a lake cruise with a tour guide providing the necessary commentary.

Depending on the tour you book, you may also visit a local distillery for whisky tasting.

How much does a day trip to Loch Ness cost?

A guided day trip to Loch Ness from Inverness will typically cost between £30 and £130, depending on the length of the tour and scheduled stops along the way. If you are interested in just a cruise in Loch Ness, the cost is about £20 per person.

The cost of a private tour ranges from about £100 to £200 per person, depending on the locations that you visit, size group and mode of transportation.

What will you see and do?

Urquhart Castle

Founded in the 13th century, the iconic Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness is steeped in history and played a pivotal role in Scottish history. During your visit, you can explore the ruins and examine many artifacts in the visitor center.

Fort Augustus

On the southern end of Loch Ness, you will find the picturesque village of Fort Augustus. Of particular interest in the area is the Clansman Centre, which aims to give visitors a glimpse of Scotland in the 17th century.

Caledonian Canal

Stretching 100 kilometers, the Caledonian Canal connects the east and western coasts of Scotland. This impressive technical and engineering feat was designed by Thomas Telford and completed in the early 19th century.

Although it is not as busy as it used to be, the Caledonian Canal remains a popular tourist cruise destination.

Culloden Battlefield

About 5 kilometers east of Inverness, you will find Culloden, where one of the most critical battles was fought on British soil, ending the Jacobite Rising in the 18th century.

Aside from exploring the battlefield and impressive memorials, you may also learn a lot about the dramatic events that unfolded there and their historic context at the Culloden visitor center.

When is the best time to visit Loch Ness?

Although you may visit it all year long, the best time for a day trip to Loch Ness is during spring, when the weather is warmer, the skies are clearer and the landscape is blooming.

Are there any tours to Loch Ness from other cities in the United Kingdom?

Yes, there are many tours departing from other cities in the UK:

• Day trips to Loch Ness from Edinburgh
• Day trips to Loch Ness from Glasgow
• Multi-day trips to Loch Ness from London

Travel tips

• Avoid swimming in Loch Ness, as it is very deep and the waters are cold throughout the year. Since it is a fresh water lake, you will also be less buoyant than in the sea.
• Dress accordingly for the Scottish weather, which is prone to change. Waterproof clothing is recommended, especially if you take a cruise, while sturdy footwear will be necessary for any hiking.
• Don't forget to pack a camera with you to take pictures of the incredible landscape and Nessie, should she make an appearance.