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South Loch Ness

For those in search of calm and respite, the south side of Loch Ness is a perfect escape. While sites like the famed Urquhart Castle on the northern shores of Loch Ness certainly attract thousands of visitors annually, there is an abundance of sights and activities to discover on the Loch’s lesser visited south side.

For nature lovers, the South Loch Ness Hiking Trail is a firm favourite to explore this quiet paradise. The trail, which passed its 11th anniversary back in August, covers an epic 36-mile route starting on the outskirts of Inverness at Torbreck and officially ends at village of Fort Augustus. Hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders embarking on their trek can expect magnificent views of Loch Ness and encounter a delightful array of local wildlife and colourful flora on their way.

History, Mystery and Innovation

Every turn on the winding roads through the villages of South Loch Ness is steeped in thousands of years of history. At Foyers, take a step back in time at the peculiar 18th century Boleskine House. With a bizarre history set in a beautiful 2.5 acre wildflower meadow, this quirky manor house has long captured the attention of visitors to the area.

While many may drive past on their travels to Ruthven Barracks or around Loch Ness, take a stroll over the River Fechlin via White Bridge from which the neighbouring village takes its name. The arched bridge, named for the colour of its stonework, was built in 1732 by British army officer General Wade to aid military expansion and the suppression of the Jacobites.

Further south at Fort Augustus, history is brought to life at the Clansman Centre. The centre, set in a 19th century schoolhouse, hosts the famed Clansman Show where audiences of all ages are regaled in tales of everyday life in the days of the clan system by an authentically dressed Clansman.

Get Inspired

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Take it slow and retrace these historic military network.

A Stitch in Time: The Wedding Gown of Isabella MacTavish Fraser

This week, inspired by the story ‘Isabella MacTavish’, join us as we take a look at the hidden history behind the iconic late 18th century wedding dress of Isabella MacTavish Fraser.

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