Explore the Majesty of the Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands have long held a mystical allure, with their rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and whispers of legendary creatures. And nestled in this picturesque landscape, you’ll find the perfect basecamp for your active Highland adventure – Loch Ness Shores.
As someone who has always been drawn to the great outdoors, I recently had the opportunity to experience the splendor of this remarkable region firsthand. It all started with a chance encounter – a serendipitous conversation that led me to the doorstep of Loch Ness Shores, a family-owned campsite that would soon become the backdrop for an unforgettable journey.
Canoeing the Legendary Loch Ness
My adventure began with a Great Glen Canoe Expedition – a breathtaking 60-mile journey through the heart of the Highlands, traversing three iconic lochs, including the mighty Loch Ness. As a novice canoeist, I’ll admit I was a bit nervous at first, but the skilled instructors at Loch Ness Shores quickly put me at ease.
From the moment we pushed off the shore, the world seemed to slow down. The rhythmic dipping of our paddles, the gentle lapping of the water, and the sweeping vistas of rugged mountains and dense forests – it was like stepping into a dreamscape. Even the rain that poured down on us during the first day couldn’t dampen our spirits, as we learned the meditative joy of canoeing in the elements.
Each night, we made camp in some of the most picturesque spots along the loch, falling asleep to the soothing sounds of the water and the crackle of our campfire. And the meals our guide, Tim, prepared were nothing short of culinary masterpieces, fueling us for the adventures that lay ahead.
Hiking the Great Glen Way
After our exhilarating time on the water, I was eager to explore the Highlands on foot. The Great Glen Way – a 79-mile long-distance trail that traverses the stunning landscapes between Fort William and Inverness – was the perfect challenge.
With Loch Ness Shores as our basecamp, we set out each day, our backpacks loaded with provisions and our hiking boots ready to take on the rugged terrain. The trail wound through ancient forests, skimmed the edges of glittering lochs, and offered breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains.
One of the highlights was our journey through the haunting beauty of Glen Affric, a pristine glacial valley that Wilderness Scotland has described as the “Jewel of the Highlands.” As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed, from lush, green glens to wind-swept, rocky peaks, each vista more stunning than the last.
Cycling the Loch Ness 360
Of course, no active holiday in the Scottish Highlands would be complete without a cycling adventure. And the Loch Ness 360 trail was the perfect way to explore the region on two wheels.
Winding our way along the shore of the legendary loch, we encountered hidden waterfalls, quaint villages, and stunning natural vistas at every turn. The route was challenging, with steep climbs and hair-pin turns, but the exhilaration of soaring down the hills made it all worth it.
One of the most memorable moments was our stop at the Ideal Beach – a hidden gem along the route where we refueled with fresh seafood and took a refreshing dip in the loch’s cool waters.
Relaxing at Loch Ness Shores
Of course, no active holiday would be complete without moments of pure relaxation. And Loch Ness Shores provided the perfect oasis for us to unwind after our daily adventures.
The campsite itself is a true gem, with well-appointed glamping pods, cozy cabins, and spacious pitches for tents or campervans. And the attention to detail is impeccable, from the modern amenities to the stunning views of the loch and surrounding hills.
One of my favorite spots was the on-site sauna, where I could soothe my aching muscles while gazing out at the tranquil waters of Loch Ness. And the communal fire pits were the perfect gathering place to swap stories with fellow travelers and plan our next day’s exploits.
Discovering the Wonders of the Scottish Highlands
As my time at Loch Ness Shores drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the incredible journey I had experienced. From the majestic Loch Ness to the rugged peaks of the Great Glen, I had discovered a world that seemed to exist in a realm beyond the ordinary.
And at the heart of it all was Loch Ness Shores – a family-owned campsite that had become a basecamp for my Highland adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a first-time explorer, this magical place has something to offer everyone. So why not step into the enchanting world of the Scottish Highlands and discover the wonders that await?
