One of Scotland’s most famous attractions due to a certain eponymous monster, Loch Ness stretches 23 miles between Inverness and Fort Augustus, and is surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery of the Great Glen.

Named from the River Ness, it is the second largest loch after Lomond, but actually the largest body of water in the British Isles by volume due to its great depth – 230 metres at some points. Loch Ness has long fascinated thanks to its mysterious resident; the first photo of a monster was taken in 1933 and there are over 1,000 eye witness accounts of ‘Nessie’, though no creature has ever been found after extensive searching.

The best way to explore the loch, and attempt to spot the monster, is by boat. This way you’ll have the perfect vantage point to enjoy both the water and the spectacular landscapes, including Urquhart Castle which sits picturesquely around half way along the western shore.