Things to do near Loch Ness
Set in the foothills of the Monadhliath mountains and just 3 miles from Loch Ness, the Whitebridge Hotel is a spectacular setting to base yourself to explore the scenery and things to do near Loch Ness and across the Highlands.
Have a look around some of the recommendations we have for things to do near Loch Ness but get in touch if you’d like more tailored recommendations. With so much to see and do in the immediate area and by day trips, no matter how long you stay with us, you’ll always be left wanting to come back for more. We can’t wait to welcome you to South Loch Ness.
Bella & Lesley xx
Dark Skies
We are extremely lucky to have dark skies with little light pollution which makes this a perfect destination for star gazing; if you are lucky the aurora borealis might put on a performance for you too! Look out for our special star-gazing events between November and March.
Wellbeing
Lots of people come to the highlands to escape the stresses and strains of their everyday life. With big open spaces and nice cosy corners, we are the perfect tonic to allow you to unwind, recharge and replenish. There are talented therapists nearby who can offer yoga, massage, reiki and reflexology – get in touch if you’re interested.
Boat trips
A boat trip on Loch Ness is a must-do for Nessie hunters, young and old! Cruise Loch Ness in Fort Augustus is 10 miles from us and Jacobite cruises tours leave from the other side of Loch Ness, approximately 35 miles.
Whisky Distilleries
If you’re a whisky lover then a trip to Scotland is not complete without visiting a distillery. Our nearest is Tomatin. If you are planning a distillery tour, then we’d recommend booking ahead of time.
Waterfalls
No trip to the area would be complete without visiting one of the many waterfalls in the area – Falls of Foyers, Plodda Falls or Invermoriston Falls.
Or ask us about the secret waterfall! A lovely walk year- round. Getting to it can be a little bit tricky but ask us for directions when you arrive. Why not order a picnic or packed lunch from us to take with you?
Castles
World famous Urqhuart Castle is a 45 minute drive. It’s on a fantastic spot at the loch side. We can offer you picnics in hampers or backpacks for you to enjoy within the grounds of Urqhuart Castle. We can also recommend Cawdor Castle, Eilean Donan Castle and Dunrobin Castle which can easily be reached by car.
Birdwatching
We have Slavonian grebes on Loch Knockie and at the RSPB reserve at Loch Ruthven and a wide range of other regulars in the area – Osprey, Golden Eagle, Peregrine, Red and Black Grouse, Ptarmigan, Red Kites, Owls and many others.
Wildlife
We are surrounded by lochs, rivers, mountains and forests so the abundance of wildlife makes the area a nature lovers paradise.
There is a vast array of wildlife from small otters in the River to huge Stags in the higher ground and everything in between including Highland Cows, red squirrels, stoats, pinemarten, hares, badgers, moles, bats and dragonflies. If you fancy going a bit further afield you can often see bottlenose dolphins at Chanonry Point on the Black Isle.
How many will you spot when you visit South Loch Ness?
Horse-riding
Loch Ness Riding, based in Dores takes experienced riders for- lessons and hacks. Highlands Unbridled offer short riding holidays, stopping off at Whitebridge Hotel on some of the routes.
Kayaking/Canoeing
If you fancy exploring nearby lochs by kayak or canoe, you can either bring your own or rent one locally. Loch Ness shores hire out kayaks over in Foyers (4 miles away) from Easter to October.
Photography / Art
The natural beauty and ever-changing light make south Loch Ness a playground for photographers and artists.
Flora and Fauna
There is a gorgeous array of wild flowering plants around the area which bring colour to your visit from Spring until Autumn.
Viewpoint
Just 3 miles from us on General Wade’s Military Road, the Suidhe Viewpoint offers 360 degrees of spectacular scenery. Not to be missed – stop off on your way to Fort Augustus.
Fishing
The Whitebridge Lochs are a famous group of lochs scattered amongst the hills. Most of the larger lochs have boats (no outboard motors) which provide excellent fishing in wonderful yet very accessible remoteness. Most lochs are only metres from a road, making the area popular, particularly from mid-May to July when trout fishing is at its best. We hold the fishing rights for Loch Knockie and can provide a boat hire and permit to fish for £35.00 per day, £25.00 per half day or evening. Loch Knockie has some of the best trout fishing in Europe. Fly only.
A Ghillie is available by prior arrangement.
Our land also backs on to the River Fechlin with fishing available there too.
Beaches
There are lots of beaches within easy reach of the hotel but two of our favourites are Rosemarkie beach (you can often see bottlenose dolphins at nearby Chanonry Point on the Black Isle) and Dornoch beach (a lovely sandy beach with miles of golden sand, situated on the tranquil Dornoch Firth)
Cycling
For cycling enthusiasts, we are on the world class gravel tracked South Loch Ness Trail.
For those looking for a more gentle sightseeing ride, why not hire a bike in Fort Augustus and cycle up the Caledonian Canal?
Walking / hiking
The possibilities for walking in this area are endless. There are multiple walks directly from the door of the hotel. Whether you are looking for hillwalking, forest trails or sightseeing walks, we’ve got you covered. Check Walk Highlands website or ask us for our personal recommendations.
Wildlife Park
Highland wildlife park is a 105 hectare safari park and zoo set within the Cairngorms National Park, just an hour drive from us.
Day trip to Isle of Skye
Its a beautiful drive to the Skye bridge – it takes about 1.5 hours so suitable for day trips. Why not order a packed lunch from us and head off to walk up to see the Fairy Pools.
You can drive round the Island, stopping off at lovely coves and bays whenever you fancy. Whatever you do – make sure to take in a stop at Eileen Donan Castle on the way out or on the way back.
Culloden Battlefield
Visit the powerfully moving site of the final Jacobite Rising – the last and most harrowing pitched battle to be fought on British soil. Explore the interactive visitor centre, view fascinating artefacts from both sides of the confrontation, and experience the battle in the immersive surround cinema.