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What town is closest to Loch Ness?

Let's start with the basics. If you look at a map of Britain, Scotland is at the top, look at the far northern tip of the island ? that's John O Groats. Now move south along the east coast until you get to the pointy end of the V shape ? that's Inverness, the nearest city to Loch Ness.



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Loch Ness is long and skinny, stretching from Fort Augustus up to Inverness. Halfway up the loch, on the western shore, is Urquhart Castle. This is the most scenic spot to view Loch Ness and the prime location to spot Nessie. If visiting Scottish castles excites you, Urquhart Castle is a great one to visit.

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We talked to people who lived their whole lives in Scotland and still have not seen Loch Ness. What does that tell you? If you believe in Nessie, then yes, a visit here is absolutely worth it. If you are not a believer, then maybe your time is better spent in other areas of Scotland.

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The great lake that Hogwarts is surrounded by was filmed at two different lochs, one being Loch Shiel. However, Loch Shiel was used for Buckbeak's flight and as the lake that the astronomy tower looked out over. With beautiful views, which is probably why the film team chose this Loch!

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Loch Morar is the deepest loch – at 310m. Loch Ness is the largest loch by volume – it contains more water (7,452 million cubic metres) than all English and Welsh lakes together.

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Avoid Swimming in Loch Ness This is due to the depth of the loch - the surface might warm slightly, but it is a lot colder below, and this can put you at risk of cold water shock, or hypothermia.

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If you prefer to see the “quiet” side of Loch Ness, head down the South Side of Loch Ness on the B852 towards Dores and Foyers, where you will find lovely walks, quiet picnic spots and amazing viewpoints! Not to mention, the South Loch Ness Trail, which is the perfect way to explore the area.

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''Loch Ness is one of those rare destinations that engages everyone, from children enchanted with Nessie, to adults interested in photography, hiking and more. It combines Jacobite history, stunning scenery and the possibility of a monster sighting, ensuring it's a perfect destination all year round, for all ages. ''

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Walking the Loch Ness 360° Trail This route is 80 miles (129.5 km) long, and we recommend walking it over six days – one section per day. Or, if you're looking for a shorter walk, take any of the six sections and follow that part of the trail.

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You have to go through the visitor centre to get to the ruins, so you have to pay the admission fee.

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Walking the Loch Ness 360° Trail This route is 80 miles (129.5 km) long, and we recommend walking it over six days – one section per day. Or, if you're looking for a shorter walk, take any of the six sections and follow that part of the trail. Each part of the walk has its own unique things to see and enjoy.

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There are bus services from Inverness to both sides of Loch Ness. The easiest way to catch a bus to Loch Ness is by visiting Drumnadrochit on the North Side. The Citylink 919 bus route runs from Inverness to Drumnadrochit in about a half hour. Buses on this route run about every two hours, beginning at 9:00 AM.

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