On Day 6 of our Caledonian Canal adventure, we embarked on the final leg of our journey before returning, travelling from Fort Augustus to Inverness. This stretch took us through some of the most breathtaking landscapes Scotland has to offer, culminating in our arrival at the historic city of Inverness. The day was a perfect blend of scenic cruising, historical exploration, and the thrill of reaching our final destination.
Morning: Departing Fort Augustus and Entering Loch Ness
We began the day with a sense of excitement as we departed from Fort Augustus, heading into the vast waters of Loch Ness. The loch, shrouded in mist, stretched out before us, its deep, mysterious waters capturing our imaginations. As we cruised along, the thought of the legendary Loch Ness Monster was never far from our minds, adding an element of intrigue to the journey.
Loch Ness is the largest and most famous of the Scottish lochs, not just for its size but for its association with the mythical creature known as Nessie. The loch’s dark, peaty waters are incredibly deep, reaching depths of over 230 meters, which only adds to its mystique.
Morning: Departing Fort Augustus and Entering Loch Ness
We began the day with a sense of excitement as we departed from Fort Augustus, heading into the vast waters of Loch Ness. The loch, shrouded in mist, stretched out before us, its deep, mysterious waters capturing our imaginations. As we cruised along, the thought of the legendary Loch Ness Monster was never far from our minds, adding an element of intrigue to the journey.
Loch Ness is the largest and most famous of the Scottish lochs, not just for its size but for its association with the mythical creature known as Nessie. The loch’s dark, peaty waters are incredibly deep, reaching depths of over 230 meters, which only adds to its mystique.
Midday: Cruising Through Loch Dochfour and the Caledonian Canal
After leaving the expansive Loch Ness, we entered the narrower Loch Dochfour, a beautiful, more intimate waterway surrounded by lush greenery and steep hillsides. The landscape here felt more enclosed, with the dense forests and rolling hills creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility. This stretch of the journey was particularly peaceful, offering stunning views at every turn.
As we exited Loch Dochfour, we rejoined the Caledonian Canal for the final stretch to Inverness. This part of the canal is less challenging in terms of navigation but no less beautiful. The serene waters, flanked by towering trees and open meadows, provided a perfect setting for reflecting on the journey we’d undertaken.
Afternoon: Approaching Inverness
By the afternoon, we were approaching Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. The city gradually came into view, its skyline dominated by the spires of old churches and the imposing presence of Inverness Castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the River Ness. The sight of the city after days of rural landscapes was both exciting and bittersweet, marking the end of our journey on the Caledonian Canal.
Inverness, known as the "Gateway to the Highlands," is a city rich in history and culture. It’s a place where ancient and modern Scotland meet, with historic sites sitting alongside vibrant shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Arrival in Inverness: A City Steeped in History
Upon reaching Inverness, we moored the boat and took some time to explore the city. Inverness has a fascinating history, from its early days as a Pictish stronghold to its role in the Jacobite uprisings. The city’s location at the head of the Great Glen has made it a strategic site for centuries, and its history is reflected in its architecture and landmarks.
A visit to Inverness Castle provided us with stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside, while the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery offered insights into the region’s past, from its prehistoric roots to its Victorian heyday.
Evening: Reflecting on Our Journey
As the day came to a close, we found a cosy spot in a local pub to celebrate the completion of our journey. The sense of achievement was palpable as we looked back on the past six days—each lock, loch, and landscape a piece of a larger adventure that had brought us closer to the heart of Scotland.
Tomorrow, we’ll begin exploring Inverness in more detail, but for tonight, we’re content to relax and savour the memories of our voyage. The Caledonian Canal has been an unforgettable experience, offering a unique perspective on the beauty, history, and culture of the Scottish Highlands.
After leaving the expansive Loch Ness, we entered the narrower Loch Dochfour, a beautiful, more intimate waterway surrounded by lush greenery and steep hillsides. The landscape here felt more enclosed, with the dense forests and rolling hills creating a sense of seclusion and tranquility. This stretch of the journey was particularly peaceful, offering stunning views at every turn.
As we exited Loch Dochfour, we rejoined the Caledonian Canal for the final stretch to Inverness. This part of the canal is less challenging in terms of navigation but no less beautiful. The serene waters, flanked by towering trees and open meadows, provided a perfect setting for reflecting on the journey we’d undertaken.