Drumnadrochit

Monster hunters and sceptics alike flock to this loch-side village, drawn by the world's most famous cryptid. But Drumnadrochit offers far more than Nessie mythology - it's your gateway to the wild Highland glens and dramatic peaks that define this corner of Scotland.

The village sits at the mouth of Glen Urquhart, where the loch stretches away into misty distance. Nessieland Castle Monster Centre capitalises on the legend with shameless enthusiasm, while the more understated Urquhart Bay Wood provides proper walking territory along the shoreline. Those Bradley Martin Memorial and Glen Urquhart War Memorial remind you this isn't just a tourist playground - real Highland communities have thrived here for generations.

Walk 20 minutes up An Torr for cracking views across the loch without the coach party crowds. Serious hikers can tackle Creag Mhor or venture deeper into the glen towards Loch Meiklie. The surrounding landscape shifts from loch-side birch woods to proper Highland moorland surprisingly quickly.

Getting here means the A82 from Inverness - about 25 minutes through scenery that gets more dramatic by the mile. Fort William lies an hour south, making Drumnadrochit perfectly positioned for Highland touring.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. Loch Ness Shores Camping and Caravanning Club Site puts you right on the water, while the various glamping options around the area let you wake up to loch views without roughing it completely. You're close enough to explore the monster exhibitions and gift shops, but far enough from the main road to enjoy some peace when the day trippers head home.