Confessions of a Loch Ness Monster hunter

My dream holiday in the Scottish Highlands involves many things – hill walks, unique accommodation… whisky. But most of all I desire contact with the Loch Ness Monster. I must have proof. 

I think a two-week break would do it. Enough time to blend in and disappear for a while, follow my instincts, scan the depths – but also recharge. The idea is to find Nessie but have some time to slow down and experience the area. There might be a bit of heat on me from the papers when I get back home so it would be important to enjoy my vacation while it lasted. 

I’d stroll the halls of ancient castles at dusk and catch the sun setting over deep water. Take a bike ride round the Loch Ness 360 trail, sail down the Caledonian Canal and drop into the newly refurbished Loch Ness Centre to talk tactics with the staff. Of course, I’d have to find some nice places to eat too. Ideally somewhere I can catch up on my background reading… 

Tales of a great monster in the waters of Loch Ness date back at least a thousand years. The first reported sighting was by St Columba in the year 565AD. However, it wasn't until the 1930’s that the enigma really took hold of the public imagination. 

In 1933, a Mr George Spicer reported seeing a large creature in the loch when on holiday with his wife: “I am a temperate man, but I am willing to take any oath that we saw this Loch Ness beast. I am certain that this creature was of a prehistoric species.” 

Since then there have been many sightings, and some famous hoaxes too. In the 1970’s a photograph by Dr Robert Rhines gained worldwide attention. Unfortunately it was later revealed that this was an ingenious hoax.  

Urquhart Castle 

Discover 1,000 years of drama, experience a glimpse of medieval life and enjoy stunning views over Loch Ness from the ruins of beautiful Urquhart Castle. 

Drumnadrochit 

Drumnadrochit is a great location for exploring the Highlands. The village is surrounded by Glen Urquhart and Glen Moriston, as well as the Great Glen that reaches across from Inverness in the east to Fort William in the west. 

Plodda Falls 

Stop by one of Scotland’s most spectacular waterfalls, Plodda Falls, a real hidden gem. Enjoy a walk through the forest to get to the best viewpoint.  

The Loch Ness 360 Trail 

This epic trail loops the entire circumference of Loch Ness. You can start and finish in the Highland Capital of Inverness, or join the Loch Ness 360 Trail at any point of your choice. 

You’ll need your wits about you if you want to find this secretive creature. Finding a suitable base of operations is essential, so it’s important to book into some respectable Loch Ness accommodation and start from there. Here are a few other essentials. 

• Binoculars 
• Camera 
• A map 
• Transport (we recommend hiring a bike or even a canoe) 
• Food! Check out these places to eat in Loch Ness