101 places to go – Loch Ness

According to our sources (well, Wikipedia), it was 78 years ago this week that the first recorded spotting of Nessie took place on the shores of Loch Ness in Scotland. And according to the Inverness Courier (by way of Wikipedia), the full-time water bailiff, and part time journalist, first spotted the monster on 2 May 1933 and went on to see it a further 18 times in his lifetime.

Though we’re an open-minded bunch at cottages4you we can’t help but be a little bit disappointed by the lack of modern sightings of Nessie – especially as digital cameras are now so commonplace! Still, even if you don’t return from Loch Ness with irrefutable evidence of the beastie, there are still plenty of things to do in the region. Here are a few of our favourites…

•  Even in ruin Urquhart Castle stands as a majestic testament to the region’s rich history. Once upon a time the castle offered the best possible view of the Loch and, apparently, most recorded sightings of the Loch Ness Monster have taken place near to the castle. Maybe Nessie’s a fan of fine architecture too?

•  If the example above is a testament to the human history of Loch Ness then Abriachan Garden Nursery speaks more of its natural wonders. This lovely woodland nursery offers an eye-catching array of flowers and plants that enhance their (already stunning) surrounds.

Have you been to Loch Ness? Let us know the best things to see and do by leaving a comment below!