Our journey on the Caledonian Canal took a delightful turn today as we made our way back from Inverness towards Fort Augustus, with a memorable stop at the historic Urquhart Castle. The day ended with an overnight stay at Drumnadrochit, where we enjoyed an evening of good company, food, and drinks by the shores of Loch Ness.
Morning: Departing Inverness and Heading to Urquhart Castle
We departed Inverness early in the morning, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia as we began the return leg of our adventure. The city quickly gave way to the serene beauty of the Caledonian Canal, and soon we were cruising through the familiar waters of Loch Ness.
Our first destination of the day was Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. The castle, perched on the edge of Loch Ness, has witnessed centuries of history, from its early medieval origins to its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence. The ruins, with their commanding views of the loch, offered us a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
We spent a few hours exploring the castle grounds, wandering through the ancient ruins and learning about the castle’s storied history. The atmosphere was both peaceful and poignant, as we stood on the very stones that had seen so much conflict and change. The view from the castle, looking out over the vast expanse of Loch Ness, was simply breathtaking.
Afternoon: Cruising Towards Drumnadrochit
After leaving Urquhart Castle, we continued our journey along Loch Ness, heading towards the village of Drumnadrochit. The weather was kind, with the sun breaking through the clouds, casting a warm glow over the water. The beauty of the Highlands was on full display, with the loch surrounded by lush green hills and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.
As we approached Drumnadrochit, the village came into view, nestled on the western shore of Loch Ness. Known for its strong association with the Loch Ness Monster, Drumnadrochit is a charming and welcoming place, making it a popular stop for travellers and boaters alike.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks by Loch Ness
We moored our boat at Loch Ness Harbour in Drumnadrochit, joining a lively group of fellow boaters who had also chosen this spot for the night. The atmosphere was friendly and convivial, with everyone sharing stories from their travels along the canal.
As the evening progressed, we gathered with the other boaters by the water’s edge, setting up a casual dinner with drinks. The setting was perfect—Loch Ness stretching out before us, the sky painted in hues of orange and pink as the sun began to set. The camaraderie among the group was one of the highlights of the evening, with laughter and conversation flowing as easily as the drinks.
Sitting by the loch, with the calm waters reflecting the fading light, it was easy to see why this spot is so beloved by those who travel the Caledonian Canal. The peacefulness of the surroundings, combined with the warmth of shared company, made for a truly memorable night.
Reflecting on the Day
As we returned to our boat for the night, we couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s experiences. From the historic grandeur of Urquhart Castle to the relaxed evening by Loch Ness, the day had been filled with moments that encapsulated the essence of our Scottish adventure—rich history, stunning landscapes, and the joy of connecting with fellow travellers.
Tomorrow, we’ll complete our journey back to Fort Augustus, where our adventure on the Caledonian Canal will come to an end. But for tonight, we’re content to enjoy the tranquillity of Loch Ness and the memories of another incredible day in the Scottish Highlands.
Stay tuned for our final thoughts as we wrap up our journey on Day 8, reflecting on the highlights and sharing tips for future travellers on the Caledonian Canal.