A Journey through the Heart of the Scottish Highlands
As I set out on the open road, the misty highlands unfurled before me like a grand tapestry. Loch Ness, that legendary body of water, glimmered in the distance, beckoning me to explore its winding shores. With my trusty steed – a reliable set of wheels – I embarked on a journey through one of Scotland’s most captivating regions.
Embracing the Moody Majesty of Loch Ness
There are few more Scottish sights than that of Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness on a misty day. As I approached the iconic ruin, the scene unfolding before me was nothing short of breathtaking. Involuntary bagpipes seemed to fill the air, and my mind’s eye was consumed with visions of kilts, shortbread, and the elusive Nessie – the legendary monster rumored to lurk beneath the dark waters.
Loch Ness has long been a major draw for tourists, desperate to catch a glimpse of Scotland’s largest loch and immerse themselves in the captivating folklore surrounding it. The Nessie paraphernalia and museums around Drumnadrochit on the west coast of the loch are, for some, the ultimate tourist trap, while for others, they provide a delightful way to let the imagination wander. And if you have kids in tow, it’s the perfect opportunity to play along, smiling wryly and rolling your eyes as you pretend your interest is solely for their benefit.
Navigating the Loch’s Encompassing Drive
A full circuit of the loch is a 70-mile drive, and it’s best to tackle it in an anti-clockwise direction to enjoy the most breathtaking views. As I navigated the winding roads, I was treated to a veritable feast for the senses – the impressive waterfalls at Invermoriston and Foyers, the majestic Urquhart Castle jutting unapologetically over the water, and the ever-changing moods of the loch itself, from moody and misty to sun-dappled and serene.
While Loch Ness may not have the dramatic landscapes of its counterparts, such as Loch Lomond or Loch Maree, it still possesses a serene and captivating beauty that has drawn visitors for generations. And with the single-track roads that scare many away, the east coast of the loch offers a less crowded and more intimate experience for the intrepid explorer.
Embracing the Unexpected on the Roads Less Traveled
As I made my way around the loch, I encountered an unexpected challenge – a low-lying cloud that instantaneously consumed my car, forcing me to pull over and wait patiently for it to pass. The sheep kept me company by the roadside, a testament to the ever-changing and unpredictable nature of the Scottish Highlands. It’s a reminder that even the best-laid plans can be disrupted by the whims of Mother Nature, but it’s in these moments that the true spirit of adventure shines through.
A Fitting Finale: Dores Inn and the Loch’s Legendary Resident
As the drive neared its end, I found myself at Dores Inn, a perfect conclusion to my journey around Loch Ness. With a dram in hand and the breathtaking views of the loch stretching out before me, I couldn’t help but wonder about the legendary creature that has captured the imagination of countless visitors. “What’s that coming out of the water?” I mused, my curiosity piqued as I gazed out over the still waters.
The Winding Road around Loch Ness may not be as dramatic as some of its more famous counterparts, but it is a journey that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, captivating history, and the kind of unexpected adventures that make travel in the Scottish Highlands so truly unforgettable.
