Loch Ness

The country’s most famous loch is also home to its most famous monster. It is all very touristy these days, but the scenery is truly epic and worth visiting for alone. Nessie has a sister – Morag on the west coast – but she attracts none of the worldwide attention heaped on Nessie. There have been countless sightings and expeditions, but conclusive proof is still hard to come by. You might be lucky, but if you don't spot Nessie you can just enjoy this idyllic stretch of the Great Glen, hemmed in by high mountains and dotted with pretty towns and villages. The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition is a must for diehard Nessie enthusiast, and Fort Augustus is an excellent base and home to the most spectacular locks on the Caledonian Canal. From this old garrison town you can idle around the banks and get a feel for the sinewy, deep expanse. There is also a fantastic loch side house nearby if you are planning to stay and hunt for Nessie yourself!.