Our journey on the Caledonian Canal took a fascinating turn today as we travelled from Laggan to Fort Augustus, navigating the impressive flight of five locks that lead to the legendary Loch Ness. This day was a true test of teamwork and patience, offering a unique experience that brought us closer to the canal’s history and engineering marvels.
Morning: Departing Laggan
We set off from Laggan in the early morning, the mist still clinging to the hills as we made our way down the canal. The calm waters and peaceful surroundings set the tone for the day, but we knew we had an exciting challenge ahead of us—the five locks of Fort Augustus.
Approaching the Fort Augustus Locks
As we neared Fort Augustus, the anticipation grew. The flight of five locks is one of the most iconic features of the Caledonian Canal, designed to raise and lower boats over a considerable height difference. The locks are a testament to the engineering brilliance of Thomas Telford, who masterminded the canal’s construction in the early 19th century.
Navigating these locks is a hands-on experience, and today, we took on the challenge with the engine off, relying solely on ropes to guide our boat through. It was a physically demanding task, requiring coordination and effort from everyone on board, but the sense of accomplishment as we moved from one lock to the next was incredibly rewarding.
The Experience: Pulling the Boat Through
With the engine off, we took our positions, ropes in hand, ready to pull the boat through the series of locks. The process involved slowly and carefully guiding the boat into each lock chamber, securing the ropes, and then manually pulling the boat forward as the water level adjusted.
The teamwork required was intense but fulfilling. Each lock presented a new challenge, but the steady rhythm of the water rising and falling, combined with the physical effort of pulling the boat, created a deep connection to the canal and its history. It was easy to imagine the countless boats that had made this same journey over the past two centuries, each one adding to the rich tapestry of the Caledonian Canal’s story.
Afternoon: Arrival at Loch Ness
After successfully navigating the locks, we emerged at the start of Loch Ness, the most famous of Scotland’s lochs. The sight of the vast expanse of water, stretching out before us with the surrounding hills rising steeply on either side, was awe-inspiring. The sense of accomplishment from conquering the locks made the moment even more special.
Loch Ness is shrouded in mystery and legend, best known for the mythical creature that is said to inhabit its depths. As we looked out over the water, it was easy to see how the loch’s mysterious beauty could inspire such tales.
Evening: Mooring in Fort Augustus
We moored our boat in Fort Augustus, a charming village that sits at the southern tip of Loch Ness. After the physically demanding day, we were glad to relax and explore the village, which offers a perfect blend of history, local culture, and stunning views of the loch.
The evening was spent reflecting on the day’s adventure, with a well-earned meal at a local pub, sharing stories of our experience with fellow travellers. The camaraderie and shared sense of accomplishment added to the day’s enjoyment, making it one of the highlights of our journey so far.
Tomorrow, we’ll begin our exploration of Loch Ness, but for now, we’re content to relax and soak in the beauty and history of Fort Augustus. Stay tuned for Day 6, where we continue our journey into the heart of the Highlands and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the elusive Nessie.