Hiking the Great Glen Way: A Monster of a Good Time
Ah, the Scottish Highlands – where the mist-shrouded hills and mysterious lochs hold the promise of adventure and the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster. As a lover of all things outdoorsy, I couldn’t wait to lace up my boots and explore this enchanting corner of the world. And what better way to do it than by tackling the iconic Great Glen Way, a trail that winds its way alongside the legendary Loch Ness?
I decided to embark on the Great Glen Escape, a condensed version of the full Great Glen Way that packs all the highlights into a manageable 5-day, 4-night adventure. With the high route selected, I knew I was in for some seriously stunning vistas – and maybe, just maybe, a glimpse of the mythical Nessie herself.
Embarking on the High Route: Loch Ness Awaits
The journey began in the charming village of Fort Augustus, where I checked into a cozy B&B and spent the evening wandering the quaint streets and canal-side pubs, fueling up on a classic Scottish dish of haggis, neeps, and tatties. The next morning, I set out with a hearty breakfast in my belly and a sense of excitement coursing through me.
The first day’s hike from Fort Augustus to Invermoriston was a challenging but rewarding one, with a steep climb through picturesque woodland that eventually opened up to reveal the most breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Ness. As I stood there, taking in the serene, almost otherworldly sight of the dark, mysterious waters below, I couldn’t help but wonder if Nessie might make an appearance. Alas, the elusive creature remained hidden, but the sheer beauty of the landscape more than made up for it.
Drumnadrochit: A Nessie-Lover’s Delight
The following day’s trek from Invermoriston to Drumnadrochit was equally stunning, with more heart-pounding ascents and descents along the high route. But the real highlight of this leg of the journey was arriving in Drumnadrochit, the self-proclaimed home of the Loch Ness Monster.
I couldn’t resist the siren call of Nessieland, a charming, kitschy tribute to the legendary beast. After touring the interactive exhibits and watching a captivating presentation on the history and folklore surrounding Nessie, I refueled with a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake at the onsite café. With my Nessie fix satisfied, I explored the quaint village, ducking into the local pubs and restaurants to sample more of Scotland’s finest fare.
The Final Leg: Descending into Inverness
The last day of hiking from Drumnadrochit to Inverness was a bit of a departure from the previous legs, as the trail transitioned from rugged, hilly terrain to more gentle, flat paths. But the views remained nothing short of spectacular, with a particularly stunning vantage point overlooking the bustling city of Inverness.
After completing the final leg of the Great Glen Escape, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Not only had I conquered some challenging hikes, but I had also immersed myself in the rich history and culture of the Scottish Highlands, all while keeping an ever-watchful eye out for the enigmatic Loch Ness Monster. Though Nessie remained elusive, I left with memories and experiences that will stay with me forever.
Exploring Loch Ness by Boat: A Fitting Finale
As my time in the Highlands drew to a close, I couldn’t resist one final adventure: a Jacobite boat tour of Loch Ness. Gliding across the inky waters, I marveled at the stunning scenery that had captivated me throughout my hike, while keeping a hopeful eye out for any signs of movement in the depths below.
Though Nessie remained frustratingly out of sight, the boat tour was a wonderful way to cap off my Great Glen Escape. As I bid farewell to the Highlands and headed back to the city, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of longing to return. For now, the search for the Loch Ness Monster continues, but I know that the next time I lace up my boots and set out to explore this magical corner of Scotland, I’ll be in for an adventure unlike any other.
Exploring More Loch Ness Hiking Trails
If you’re like me and can’t get enough of the Loch Ness area, there are plenty of other stunning hikes to discover beyond the Great Glen Way. Here are a few of the top trails to add to your list:
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Approximate Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meall Fuar-mhonaidh | Moderate to Challenging | 3 hours | Panoramic views of Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands |
| Loch Affric Circuit | Moderate | 4-6 hours | Towering snow-capped mountains, ancient Caledonian forest |
| South Loch Ness Trail | Moderate | 2-3 days | Stunning views, remote Highlands scenery, stops for sustenance |
No matter which trail you choose, you’re sure to be rewarded with incredible vistas, a true taste of the Highlands, and perhaps even a chance encounter with the elusive Loch Ness Monster. So why not plan your next adventure at Loch Ness Shores and get ready to explore this enchanting corner of Scotland?
