Small Scottish Highland village on banks of iconic loch that is stuff of legends
A small Highland village, offers visitors a rare combination of stunning scenery, rich heritage, and unique attractions, making it a top destination in Scotland despite its modest population of just over 1,100 residents. While many recognise Drumnadrochit for its connection to the Loch Ness Monster, there is much more to explore in this picturesque corner of the Highlands.
The village lies at the heart of the Great Glen, flanked by Glen Urquhart and Glenmoriston, and provides an ideal base for discovering the Highlands, Express reports.
Visit Scotland highlights the area's appeal, noting a wide range of activities including exploring the iconic Urquhart Castle, horse riding, cycling, cruising Loch Ness, and fishing.
The loch itself, Scotland's largest, draws thousands of tourists each year hoping to glimpse the legendary Nessie.
For those seeking more than the legend, Nessieland offers a hands-on insight into the myths surrounding the monster.
Visitors can watch documentaries on historical sightings, explore the Nessie caves, enjoy an adventure playground, and take cruises along the loch, making it a family-friendly highlight of any trip to the area.
Urquhart Castle is another cornerstone of Drumnadrochit's appeal. Set against dramatic Highland scenery, the fortress has witnessed some of Scotland's most significant historical events.
The castle saw intense military action from the 1200s until its decline in 1692.
It fell to Edward I of England, known as the 'Hammer of the Scots,' in 1296 before being reclaimed by Scottish forces, only to be lost again to the English. Today, the castle stands as a romantic ruin overlooking Loch Ness, drawing visitors eager to explore its storied past.
The castle's popularity is reflected in its TripAdvisor rating of 4.3 out of five. One visitor wrote: 'I came to Loch Ness for Urquhart Castle.
"The place transcends words, and inspires paintings. It's so gothic and romantic, I loved the fact that it overlooks the deepest part of the loch and called out to Nessie from the beach next to the castle. The best views up close is definitely to be had on castle grounds.'
Another reviewer praised the castle's accessibility and scenic surroundings, saying: 'The magnificent Urquhart Castle is on the shore of Loch Ness and a beautiful and short drive from Inverness.
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"We left Inverness around 9am and had a very pleasant drive to Urquhart Castle stopping once at a popular viewing point to see the Loch Ness.'
A third visitor added: 'The Urquhart Castle was a great experience! We spent around an hour and a half there and we were lucky enough to get great sunny weather so we weren't too cold and got great photos!
"We really appreciated that we didn't need to go on an organised tour and we could just go through at our own pace and read all the information.
"The castle isn't very big so you can really see everything they have there pretty quickly and see the amazing views. Our experience was probably made better by lucky weather but we would go back again for a peaceful walk.'
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