Visiting Loch Ness from Inverness

If you have access to a car, the best driving route to see the loch at close quarters is by taking the B862 from Inverness to Dores (signposts show Dores). It is just fifteen minutes’ drive on a relatively quiet route, including single track roads. Once you’re on the B862, it goes all the way to Loch Ness, so you can’t go wrong. As you approach Dores, you get a spectacular view of Loch Ness and a great picture opportunity. Then at Dores village, there is the best beach anywhere on Loch Ness. And, for good measure, the Dores Inn is right on the beach. But don’t drink alcohol and drive. The legal drink drive limit in Scotland is less than one pint!

You can also drive the north side of the loch from Inverness on the main A82 road. This is a much faster commuting road and it passes through Drumnadrochit, past the famous Urquhart Castle and onwards to Fort Augustus and Fort William beyond. This road will take you to a couple of stops where you are able to explore the loch via a cruise. Closer to Inverness you have Loch Ness by Jacobite and at the other end in Fort William you have Cruise Loch Ness.

A popular way for keen cyclists to get from Inverness to Loch Ness is by bike. You can hire them in Inverness from Ticket to ride and have a lovely day cycling the relatively flat 8 miles to the Loch and back. Best take a snack and drink with you, as shops are not an option at Dores, but the Dores Inn does serve delicious meals when open!

A raincoat too should be an essential, just in case you experience changeable Highland weather. The route to Loch Ness by bike is the same as by car, except that there are cycle paths for most of the way to Dores, thus making Inverness to Loch Ness on a bike a very nice day out.

If you don't want to go self guided you can have a look at the guided bike tours from 42 Cycling that are on offer, you will experience views from the cycle paths around the loch that many won't see by car or cruise.