Though the summer season is winding down, there’s still plenty of time left to soak up some sun and make the most of the daylight.
As always, the summer months fly by in a blur of activity. One moment summer has only just begun, and you’re pulling the barbecue out of hibernation; then you blink and it’s almost autumn, and you’re considering whether to pull out your winter jacket or not. Nevertheless, summer is still here in the Highlands, and there are lots of things you can do to savour summer at Loch Ness — even if you have to wear an extra layer!
Hidden Gems
From April to October, visitors flock to the famous attractions around Loch Ness, but if you want a bit of peace from the crowds there are numerous hidden gems that offer a quieter, more intimate experience.
The Corrimony Chambered Cairn is a well-preserved burial site dating back over 4,000 years to the Bronze Age, and it is one of the finest examples of a passage grave in the Highlands. The cairn consists of a circular stone chamber surrounded by a ring of standing stones, reminiscent of the more famous Clava Cairns near Inverness. Visitors can walk around the site and enter the passage that leads to the central chamber, allowing for a unique perspective on this ancient structure. Located just a short drive from Drumnadrochit, the cairn is surrounded by beautiful countryside and lined by lush trees, making it a peaceful spot to explore. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography and a quieter experience.
The Caledonian Canal stretches for 60 miles between Fort William and Inverness, offering lots of walking opportunities and viewing points. With its flat, well-maintained paths, the towpath along the canal is perfect for walking and cycling and is accessible for all ages and fitness levels. As you meander along the canal, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lochs, and you can even explore the canal from the water by taking a boat trip or renting a canoe.
Dog Falls offers a peaceful walk through the stunning woodland of Glen Affric. This glen is renowned for its Caledonian pine forests, loch views and picturesque scenery, and the trails here lead to the incredible rushing rapids and falls of Dog Falls. The main trail is a circular route that takes you through the woods to a viewing platform overlooking the falls, though the Glen Affric area offers several other walking routes that meander through ancient the forests and open moorland. The rich biodiversity of Glen Affric makes it an excellent spot for wildlife watching, so keep an eye out for red deer, pine martens, and a variety of bird species, including golden eagles and Scottish crossbills.
Summer Events
As summer stretches on, embrace culture and community by attending some of the events in the area.
Though a majority of the Highland Games take place in July and August, there are still some events lined up for September if you are hoping to attend. The Braemar Gathering is taking place on the 7th of September, or on the 14th of September you can head to the Pitlochry Highland Games in the picturesque village of Pitlochry. These events are a one to two hour drive from Inverness, but they are worth attending if you have never had the pleasure of experiencing a Highland Games. The Heavy events feature hammer throwing, tossing the caber and putting the stone, and there will be a range of other activities such as tug of war, Highland dancing and piping, as well as vendors and stalls.
The Blas Festival is a celebration of Gaelic culture all across the Highlands, with different events happening at various locations. This year it will take place between the 6th and 14th of September, and it will feature a variety of live performances, workshops, ceilidhs and more. Some of the events are local to Drumnadrochit and Inverness, so check out the festival programme here, or maybe plan a day trip to some of the other locations, such as the Isle of Raasay or Stornoway. With a ‘pay what you can’ to attend approach and an exciting line up of performers, the Blas Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Highlands.
On the 31st of August and 1st of September, Exclusively Highlands is hosting their fair at Wildwoodz in Munlochy, situated on the Black Isle. This event features incredible arts, crafts and food vendors from all over Scotland, who all come together in the stunning location of Wildwoodz to provide their goods to attendees. Coming to this fair at is a great way to connect with local businesses, delight in incredible food and go home with lots of beautiful items to keep for yourself or give to loved ones, all whilst experiencing the beautiful forestry around you.
Out and About
Though summer may be winding down, now is a great time to get in some outdoor exercise before you have to start wrapping up or expecting heavy rainfall!
If you enjoy wild swimming, you are spoiled for choice in the Loch Ness area. Rosemarkie and Fortrose on the Black Isle are excellent options, with sandy beaches and easy parking. Many people surf here too, or you can simply dip your toes in if you don’t want to brave the water! There are many lochs in Glen Affric which are popular for swimming, in particular Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhoin, and the pool at the bottom of Plodda Falls is a common swimming hole as well. If you are up for a drive, the River Douchary near Ullapool is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon, with clear waters, natural canals and waterfalls to enjoy.
The Great Glen Way is much quieter at this time of year than peak summer, so if this is a hike you’ve been wanting to do now is definitely the time to go for it. This adventurous trail follows the Great Glen fault line from Fort William to Inverness for 79 miles, and on this journey you will experience incredible views, warm Highland hospitality and a chance to connect to nature and clear your mind.
Glen Urquhart Forest in Balnain is a great spot to stretch your legs and take your dog for a walk. You can venture out on a longer walk by taking the woodland path back to Drumnadrochit, or you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Loch Meikle before turning back. This forestry park offers a sense of peace and tranquillity during a busy day, and the paths are wide and accessible, making it the perfect place to take the whole family.
Coming to Loch Ness in the final moments of summer offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the area without the crowds, and the Loch Ness Inn is the perfect place to stay whilst you explore the area. The staff are warm and friendly and the food is exceptional, so savour the remaining days of summer in Drumnadrochit and be sure to ask for any additional recommendations for things to do and places to see.