Inverness - Isle of Skye - Loch Ness (Self Drive)

The capital of the Highlands, Inverness is one of the oldest inhabited sites in Scotland. Don't miss the oldest church, Old High Church, on St Michael's Mount by the riverside, a site used for worship since Celtic times. Other interesting sights include Inverness Castle, from which Mary, Queen of Scots was infamously barred; and Urquhart Castle, south of the city, which was a formidable fortress in the Middle Ages. Inverness is a good base for exploring the Highlands.

Visit Inverness Castle, The Steeple, Ness Islands, Abertarff House, Cawdor Castle, Urquhart Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and so much more!

The largest isle of the Inner archipelago is Skye, made even more popular with its connection via bridge to the mainland. The Vikings called Skye `The Cloud,` and in Gaelic it was known as `Eilean a` Cheo,` or Island of the Mist. No other island conjures the images of history and romance more than Skye. Its mountains and lakes evoke awe and legends are woven seamlessly into the very history of Scotland.

Explore the Cuillin Mountains, Old Man of Storr, the Fairy Pools, Dunvegan Castle, Neist Point Lighthouse, Quiraing, and much more!

One of Scotland’s largest and most famous lochs, known around the world thanks to its elusive monster Nessie. Just a short distance from Inverness, this impressive stretch of water is 23 miles long and over 700 ft at its deepest, making it Scotland’s largest loch in terms of volume. Loch Ness runs from Loch Dochfour to Fort Augustus, it is bordered by picturesque villages such as Foyers and Dores and you can drive along the western edge of the loch on the A82. Overlooking the water from the western shore is Urquhart Castle, a former royal castle that has witnessed some of the most dramatic periods in Scottish history. Walk around the iconic ruins for a first-hand look at the cells and towers, or learn about the castle’s role in the Wars of Independence and the Jacobite uprising at the excellent visitor centre. Claimed sightings of the Loch Ness Monster date back to 1933, though there have been rumors of a beast in the waters since the 7th century. With its stunning views and untouched landscapes, Loch Ness is ideal for walking and hiking and is also the site for the annual Baxters Loch Ness Marathon. The loch is also a popular spot for sailing and fishing enthusiasts, with salmon, pike, trout and more living in its fresh waters.

Visit Loch Ness Monster Exhibition Center, Urquhart Castle, Great Glen Way, Dores Beach, Fort Augustus, and much more!