Exploring the Scottish Highlands: Unmissable Things to Do Near Inverness and Loch Ness
Choosing Laggan Bothy in Scaniport as your luxury holiday base unlocks an incredible array of world-class attractions, historic monuments, and breathtaking outdoor activities throughout the Scottish Highlands. Situated just three miles from Inverness, the vibrant capital city of the Highlands, and on the direct route to the legendary banks of Loch Ness, our cottage offers unparalleled access to Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. From Scaniport, you can effortlessly embark on spectacular day trips across the region, exploring the rugged peaks of Fort William, the dramatic coastlines of Wick, or the magical, mist-shrouded Isle of Skye, with countless breathtaking sights in between.
Inverness and Loch Ness Attractions
The Legendary Magic of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
No visit to the Scottish Highlands is complete without exploring the mysterious depths of Loch Ness. Located just a short, scenic drive from Laggan Steading, this immense and world-famous body of water holds more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined.
While the sweeping views are enough to captivate any visitor, the area is also steeped in legend. Keep your eyes trained on the water for a glimpse of Nessie, the elusive Loch Ness Monster!
Urquhart Castle
For the ultimate vantage point, visit the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, perched precariously on the rocky banks of the loch is one of the most famous Inverness and Loch Ness attractions. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, this ancient stronghold features a fantastic, modern multimedia visitor centre that reveals centuries of dramatic Highland warfare and offers incredible panoramic views perfect for Nessie-spotting.
A Journey Through Highland History: Culloden, Clava Cairns, and Fort George
For history enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers a deeply moving journey through time. Perched on an atmospheric, windswept moor just above the city of Inverness lies Culloden Battlefield. This protected site is the solemn location of the famous 1746 conflict between the government army led by the Duke of Cumberland and the Jacobite forces fighting for Prince Charles Edward Stuart—affectionately known as Bonnie Prince Charlie.
As the site of the last pitched battle fought on mainland Britain, it offers a profoundly immersive experience. The state-of-the-art visitor centre, managed by the National Trust for Scotland, features an incredible 360-degree battle immersion theatre and a multi-media exhibition, alongside insightful guided tours across the historic moorland graves.
Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre
Further along the coastline lies Fort George, an absolute masterpiece of 18th-century military engineering. Constructed by the Hanoverian government in the immediate wake of the Battle of Culloden, this massive fortification was built to serve as an impregnable base for King George II’s army. Remarkably, nearly 250 years later, it remains an active, fully operational military barracks. Visitors can explore the monumental ramparts, view historic artillery, and tour the Highlanders’ Museum, which houses the largest and most significant regimental collection in Scotland outside of Edinburgh.
Fort George
Clava Cairns
Just a short distance from the battlefield, you will find the enigmatic Clava Cairns. Dating back approximately 4,000 years to the Bronze Age, this highly significant prehistoric cemetery features exceptionally preserved passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones. Maintained by Historic Environment Scotland, the site offers a mystical glimpse into ancient rituals and astronomical alignments. Fans of the hit television series and book franchise Outlander will immediately recognise the striking standing stones, which closely resemble the fictional Craigh na Dun.
Inverness City Culture, Shopping, and Outdoor Activities
In addition to these ancient landmarks, the historic city centre of Inverness provides excellent cultural and leisure experiences. Take a peaceful, rejuvenating stroll along the Ness Islands, a beautiful chain of wooded islands connected by elegant Victorian footbridges right in the middle of the River Ness. Book lovers will be enchanted by Leakey’s Bookshop on Church Street, Scotland’s largest second-hand bookstore, housed inside a magnificent, historic converted Gaelic church complete with a roaring wood fire. For evening entertainment, the magnificent Eden Court Theatre stands proudly on the riverbanks, serving as the premier entertainment hub of the Highlands, offering a rich program of theatre, independent cinema, live music, and art exhibitions. Furthermore, Inverness Castle has recently undergone a multi-million-pound transformation and is has now been added to the growing list of world class Inverness and Loch Ness attractions showcasing Highland culture.
Inverness Castle
Eden Court Theatre
Outdoor enthusiasts staying at Laggan Bothy will find themselves surrounded by limitless recreation, including championship golf courses, challenging mountain bike trails, exhilarating hill walking routes, and popular wild water swimming spots. Additionally, the famous malt whisky distilleries of the Speyside region are within easy driving distance, making it simple to experience a guided tasting of Scotland’s finest drams. Whether you seek historical exploration, cultural enrichment, or outdoor adventure, the wealth of things to do near Inverness and Loch Ness ensures a spectacular Highland holiday.
The Ness Islands
