Loch Ness Activities
Activities in, on and around Loch Ness.
Loch Ness’s fame may be in part down to its most famous resident, but this magical place has a long list of things that bring visitors to its shores year after year. For anyone thinking about a trip to Loch Ness in the summer or beyond, you’ll not be short of activities to enjoy. There are no places in the country like Loch Ness and we have a few suggestions for your itinerary for when you come and visit.
Loch Ness Boat Activities
No trip to this part of the world would be complete without a boat trip on the Loch. Containing more freshwater than all of the lakes and Rivers in England and Wales combined, Loch Ness is an impressive 23 miles long and at over 700 feet deep, is deeper than the North Sea. There are wonderful views of the surrounding countryside from wherever you are on the water. You can enjoy the tranquillity, history, and wildlife that is on display around you.
Take a relaxing trip with one of the boat tour companies around the loch and learn about the myths and legends of the area with as short or as long a trip as you want. Enjoy the fascinating full commentary of the history and wildlife you see.
If more of an adrenaline-fuelled experience is more your style, you can speed along the loch with the wind (and possibly rain) in your hair on a rib adventure. Both Beastie Boats and Cruise Loch Ness offer this type of high speed, blood pumping trip.
Loch Ness Castles
The waters and shores of Loch Ness are steeped in history, and much of this history is still on display. Nowhere is this more obvious than at the ruins of Urquhart Castle. As one of Scotland’s most picturesque castles, Urquhart Castle has adorned many a brochure, but it is with a trip to the Visitor Centre that the place’s 1,000 years of history come to life.
Loch Ness Canoeing and Kayaking
The land around Loch Ness is some of the best in the country to enjoy an active break. For those looking to make a splash, In Your Element offer a range of paddlesport activities for people young and old, who want to enjoy a unique Highland adventure. In your element also have plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy. These include mountain biking, archery, gorge walking, abseiling, and even mini highland games.
Taking to the water yourself offers one of the best ways to explore this unique place. Kayak Loch Ness provide a full service kayak service, letting you explore the Loch at your own pace.
Loch Ness Bike Hire and Cycling tours.
If you prefer dry land under foot (though this is Scotland, so it might not be that dry) then bike tours offer an invigorating way to explore Loch Ness. As well as the rest of the Great Glen, and beyond. Ticket To Ride Bike Hire offer a range of bike hire services and their local knowledge will ensure that your cycling holiday to Loch Ness is one to remember.
42 Cycling are another local business that specialises in getting you on two wheels. They can help you organise a bike tours professional road cycling tours, group cycles and also corporate hospitality experiences
Something you may not expect at Loch Ness!
Looking for something a little unique?
How about trekking with some gorgeous alpacas! Invercannich Farm has a beautiful, friendly herd of alpacas at their family run farm in Cannich close to Loch ness, an unforgettable memory-making experience for the whole family to enjoy. During the trek you will also see pygmy goats, sheep and Highland coos!
Activity options are endless!
To help plan the best active itinerary, check our interactive "Things to do" map!
You select the activity you want and it will show you the businesses that provide it and where they are based in our destination.