Hey there Nessie!

The Loch Ness Monster, often affectionately referred to as “Nessie,” is a creature of folklore said to inhabit Loch Ness, a large freshwater lake near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. Here’s a brief history of the legend, along with tips for exploring the area with your children during your motorhome trip from Edinburgh.


History of the Loch Ness Monster

  1. Early Mentions:
    • The earliest recorded sighting of a creature in Loch Ness dates back to 565 AD. Saint Columba, an Irish monk, was said to have encountered a “water beast” in the River Ness, which flows out of Loch Ness.
    • Local folklore long included tales of mysterious creatures in the loch.
  2. Modern Sightings:
    • The legend gained international fame in 1933 when a couple reported seeing a large creature cross the road near the loch. This sighting coincided with the construction of a new road along the loch, giving more people access to its shores.
    • In 1934, the famous “Surgeon’s Photograph” was published, allegedly showing Nessie’s long neck. Decades later, it was revealed to be a hoax involving a toy submarine.
  3. Scientific Exploration:
    • Over the years, numerous expeditions have tried to find evidence of Nessie, employing sonar, underwater cameras, and drones. While no conclusive proof has been found, the mystery endures.
  4. Cultural Impact:
    • Nessie has become a symbol of Scotland and draws tourists from all over the world. Her story has inspired books, movies, and countless debates.

Tips for Visiting Loch Ness

  • Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition (Drumnadrochit):
    • This family-friendly center provides an interactive exploration of Nessie’s legend, scientific studies of the loch, and its natural history.
  • Urquhart Castle:
    • Located on the shores of Loch Ness, this castle offers stunning views and a chance to imagine spotting Nessie from its towers.
  • Boat Tours:
    • Several companies offer cruises on Loch Ness with sonar equipment, perfect for a family adventure to “hunt” for Nessie.
  • Loch Ness Scenic Drive:
    • From Inverness, take the A82 along the loch’s western shore for spectacular views. Stop at picturesque villages like Fort Augustus.

Traveling from Edinburgh with a Motorhome

  • Route:
    • From Edinburgh, it’s about a 3.5- to 4-hour drive to Loch Ness via the A9 road, which takes you through the breathtaking scenery of the Scottish Highlands.
  • Family Stops Along the Way:
    1. Pitlochry: A charming town with a children’s adventure playground and beautiful riverside walks.
    2. Cairngorms National Park: Great for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting.
    3. Aviemore: Stop for family-friendly attractions such as the Highland Wildlife Park.

Fun Activities for Kids

  • Monster Hunting Gear:
    • Buy or create a “monster spotting kit” for your children, including binoculars, a notepad for sketches, and a camera to make the adventure more engaging.
  • Outdoor Play:
    • The shores of Loch Ness offer plenty of places for children to run and explore, with picnic spots and quiet coves.

The Loch Ness area offers a wide range of activities, making it a perfect destination for a motorhome adventure. Here’s a curated list of activities and attractions for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts:


Family-Friendly Activities

  1. Nessie Hunter Cruises:
    • Take a family-friendly boat cruise on Loch Ness with companies like Jacobite Cruises or Loch Ness by Jacobite. Many tours are narrated and have fun elements for kids, such as “Nessie spotting.”
  2. The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition (Drumnadrochit):
    • Learn about the history, geology, and mysteries of Loch Ness through engaging, interactive exhibits. Kids will love the tales of Nessie!
  3. Inverness Botanic Gardens:
    • Located in nearby Inverness, these gardens are a peaceful retreat with a tropical house, koi pond, and children-friendly spaces.

Outdoor Activities

  1. Urquhart Castle:
    • One of Scotland’s most iconic ruins, offering spectacular views over Loch Ness. Kids can imagine themselves as knights or explorers in this historic castle.
  2. Falls of Foyers:
    • A short walk leads to these stunning waterfalls on the eastern side of Loch Ness. The trail is surrounded by lush woodland, and it’s a great spot for a family picnic.
  3. Great Glen Way:
    • Stretch your legs on sections of this long-distance trail that runs from Inverness to Fort William, offering incredible views of Loch Ness and the surrounding countryside.
  4. Canoeing or Paddleboarding:
    • For a water-based adventure, hire equipment from local providers to explore Loch Ness up close.

Nature & Wildlife

  1. Highland Wildlife Park:
    • Located near Kingussie (en route to Loch Ness from Edinburgh), this park features native species like Scottish wildcats, red deer, and even polar bears!
  2. Dolphin Spotting at Chanonry Point:
    • Just a short drive from Inverness, you can see wild dolphins from the shore—an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.
  3. Glen Affric:
    • A stunning natural reserve with ancient Caledonian pine forests, perfect for scenic hikes and family picnics.

Rainy Day Activities

  1. Inverness Museum and Art Gallery:
    • Explore the rich history of the Highlands, including Pictish stones and Jacobite relics. There are kid-friendly exhibits to keep little ones entertained.
  2. Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre:
    • Learn about this historic canal, its engineering, and its importance to the Highlands. Located in Fort Augustus.
  3. Cawdor Castle:
    • A bit further afield, but this fairy-tale castle features beautiful gardens and an intriguing history.

Unique Local Experiences

  1. Highland Games Events:
    • If your visit coincides with the summer, check out traditional Highland Games near Loch Ness or Inverness. Activities include tug-of-war, caber tossing, and pipe bands.
  2. Whisky Distilleries:
    • Visit family-friendly distilleries such as Tomatin or Glen Ord, which offer tours showcasing whisky production (children can enjoy the scenery and learn about traditional crafts).
  3. Clava Cairns and Culloden Battlefield:
    • Visit the prehistoric burial site and the historic battlefield near Inverness for a glimpse into Scotland’s past.

Motorhome-Friendly Tips

  1. Campsites Around Loch Ness:
    • Loch Ness Shores Camping & Caravanning Club Site (Foyers): Lakeside camping with excellent facilities.
    • Inver Coille Camping & Glamping (Invermoriston): A peaceful site near Loch Ness.
    • Borlum Farm Campsite (Drumnadrochit): Close to the Loch Ness Centre and offers scenic views.
  2. Stocking Up:
    • Stop in Inverness or Fort William for groceries and supplies before heading to more remote areas.
  3. Scenic Routes:
    • Drive along the A82 in your hire vehicle for breathtaking views of Loch Ness and the surrounding Highlands. Make stops at picturesque villages like Fort Augustus and Invermoriston.

Your motorhome journey will be filled with scenic beauty, fun activities, and unforgettable memories! Let me know if you’d like detailed route planning or further suggestions. 🚐✨

For details on motorhome hire in Edinburgh

1 Drovers Road
East Mains Industrial Estate
Broxburn
Edinburgh
United Kingdom
EH52 5ND

Telephone: 0044 (0)131 322 6597