Fort Augustus

One of Scotland's most famous stretches of water starts right here, where the Caledonian Canal meets Loch Ness in a series of impressive locks. Fort Augustus sits at the southern tip of the legendary loch, and watching boats navigate the lock system while tourists peer hopefully into the dark waters never gets old.

The village itself feels properly Highland - stone buildings line the main street, and the ruins of the old Benedictine abbey add a touch of medieval grandeur. Pop into the Clansman Centre to learn about Highland culture, though it's the outdoor attractions that really steal the show. The surrounding peaks like Burach and Binnilidh Mhor offer cracking hiking for those who fancy a proper walk, while the shores of Loch Ness provide gentler strolling with those all-important monster-spotting opportunities.

Getting here is straightforward enough - Fort Augustus lies on the A82, about 30 miles south of Inverness. The drive along Loch Ness is half the fun, with the water stretching away between forested hills that look suitably mysterious even on the brightest days.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're ideally placed for exploring both the Great Glen and the wider Highlands, with easy access to the loch for early morning walks when the tourist coaches haven't yet arrived. The area around Cannich offers woodland camping if you prefer something more secluded, while the lochside sites put you right in the heart of monster country.