Farigaig Viewpoint

The drive up to Farigaig takes you through proper Highland scenery - winding roads, dark water below, mountains rising either side. Then you round a corner and there's the viewpoint, and frankly the effort is worth it. You're looking straight down Loch Ness with the water stretching away toward Inverness, and on a clear day the view reaches far enough to make you understand why people spend their whole lives up here.

It's a short stop rather than a destination in itself. Ten minutes on the grass, maybe twenty if you've got a camera. The viewpoint itself is informal - just a pull-in with decent parking and a few benches - but the sightlines are excellent and you're not hemmed in by railings or gift shops. Locals come here regularly, which is usually a good sign.

Families with young kids will get something out of it, though toddlers might lose interest quickly once they've spotted the water. Walkers and photography types will appreciate the perspective. If you're staying at Loch Ness Shores or Loch Ness Glamping, both just down the road, this is absolutely worth the drive as a late afternoon stop - the light changes constantly across the water and you're never quite sure what the next view will be. Go on a quiet day if you can. When the tour buses arrive it loses something.