Tackling the Legendary Loch Ness on a Paddleboard
The thought of paddling on the infamous Loch Ness was both exhilarating and daunting. Tales of chilly waters and sudden swells had long deterred me from attempting this quintessential Scottish adventure. But on a recent visit to the Highlands, I decided to face my fears and see the legendary loch from a whole new perspective – a stand-up paddleboard.
As I learned, the Loch Ness can be a moody beast, with conditions that can change in the blink of an eye. I had heard stories of 35km/h winds and 6-foot swells hitting unsuspecting paddlers, so I knew I had to tread carefully. But on the day of my adventure, the loch seemed to be in a cooperative mood, offering up a rare glimpse of its calm, mirror-like surface.
After some research, I decided that Dores Beach would be the ideal launch site. This sheltered spot on the eastern shore provided easy access to the water without having to navigate tricky private lands. As I carefully inflated my trusty GILI Mako paddleboard and made my way down to the beach, I couldn’t help but feel a flutter of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of trepidation.
A Serene Glide Through Loch Ness
Stepping onto the board, I was struck by the sheer size and vastness of Loch Ness. The inky black waters stretched out before me, inviting me to explore. With a deep breath, I pushed off from the shore and began to paddle.
To my pleasant surprise, the conditions were remarkably calm. The water was glassy smooth, mirroring the surrounding hills and forests. I glided effortlessly across the surface, drinking in the stunning scenery that unfolded around me. Towering cliffs, ancient ruins, and dense woodlands – it was as if I had been transported to a different era.
As I paddled deeper into the loch, the feeling of solitude and tranquility was palpable. It was just me, my board, and the enigmatic waters of Loch Ness. I couldn’t help but wonder what secrets the loch might be hiding beneath its surface, and whether the fabled Loch Ness Monster might make an appearance.
Exploring the Loch Ness Shoreline
After a while, I decided to venture closer to the shoreline, weaving between the rocky outcrops and hidden coves. As I discovered, Loch Ness offers several access points for stand-up paddleboarding, each with its own unique charm and challenges.
At Dores Beach, the sandy expanse provided a comfortable launching spot, with the loch stretching out before me in a vast panorama. Further down the eastern shore, there were more rugged, roadside access points, where the water plunged into deeper depths. Each location offered a different perspective on this ancient and captivating body of water.
As I navigated the shoreline, I couldn’t help but admire the sheer scale and grandeur of the Loch Ness landscape. The towering hills and dense forests felt almost otherworldly, and I found myself constantly looking around in awe, trying to take it all in.
A Unique Perspective on a Legendary Loch
Paddling on Loch Ness was an experience like no other. From the serene glide across the mirror-like surface to the up-close exploration of the shoreline, it provided a truly unique perspective on this legendary Scottish landmark.
As I made my way back to shore, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and wonder. I had faced my fears and conquered the Loch Ness, and in doing so, I had gained a deeper appreciation for the raw beauty and mystery of this iconic body of water.
Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time paddler, stand-up paddleboarding on Loch Ness is an experience not to be missed. So the next time you find yourself in the Scottish Highlands, be sure to make a stop at Loch Ness Shores and get out on the water for a truly unforgettable journey.
