Inverness and the Great Glen
Distance - 220 Miles/354 Kms
The Great Glen is a long, straight fissure along a geological fault, running from Inverness down to Fort William, and neatly dividing the Highlands into two. It forms a natural line through the surrounding hills, and is followed by not only the road but also the Caledonian Canal, offering splendid mountain scenery (plus a chance to see the Loch Ness Monster perhaps?). Heading from Pitlochry it’s a straightforward run up the A9 to Inverness with many stop off places en route for walking, dining and sightseeing as well as Inverness itself. Driving through the town for a few miles it’s not long until you emerge on the north side of Loch Ness and you won’t fail to miss all the Loch Ness Monster attractions dotted around here. A visit to the ruins of stunning Urquhart Castle is a must-do, even if the Nessie story may not be of interest to you. On down the lochside to Fort Augustus with its canal locks and visitor centre and then a scenic drive along Loch Lochy to Spean Bridge. A lovely journey awaits you along the north shores of Loch Laggan, eventually bringing you back on to the A9 to head south back to base.
