Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness

by coach & on foot

This experience visits the ruins of Urquhart Castle, located on the banks of Loch Ness.

Departing from Invergordon, an approximately 1h15min drive will bring you to Urquhart Castle, built as both a fortress and as a residence. In wartime, its strategic military position provided the lord and those under his protection with the most secure defence possible. Urquhart Castle featured prominently in the Scots’ struggle for independence from England in the 14th century. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle and glen were frequently raided and plundered, chiefly by the Macdonald lords of the isles. It was last inhabited by government troops during the Jacobite troubles in the 1690s.

The castle is located on the banks of Loch Ness, renowned throughout the world for its mythical monster ‘Nessie’. The Loch Ness Monster has been described as a large, long-necked creature with one hump. Belief and popular interest have varied since it was brought to worldwide attention in 1933. No matter how sceptical one is, it is impossible to look out across Loch Ness without scouring the dark waters for a glimpse of the monster.

Romantics say that ‘Nessie’ lives in a subterranean cave below the castle. The pathway from the bus park down to the lower level of the castle is steep in parts, but you can remain on the upper level and obtain great panoramic views and photo opportunities from the Visitor’s Centre. Here you can also watch an informative film about the history of Urquhart Castle from the 6th to the 17th century.

Rejoining your coach, you will enjoy a scenic drive as you return to Invergordon via Inverness.