by – Matt Vernick, Tour Manager, Europe

Just north of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands is Loch Ness. The murky Loch is long and narrow and does not stand out from the many other lakes in the region other than the fact that it is synonymous the world over with one of the most well known mysteries of the modern world: The Loch Ness Monster.

The Loch Ness Monster

First sighted by St Columba in the 6th century, Nessie has attracted increasing attention and number of people to the Loch since the 1930’s when a string of stories and blurry photos hit the scene. There have been many serious investigations into the existence of a ‘monster’ in the lake but there have probably been even more hoaxes. Explanations for the many sightings include ancient plesiosaurs, giant eels and too much Scotch whisky.

Urquhart Castle

One thing you are guaranteed to see at Loch Ness is postcard perfect ruins of Urquhart Castle on the banks of the Loch Ness. The much photographed castle is perched on the edge of the Loch and can be visited year round.