The tranquil Loch Ness village home to 'cosy' pub serving up 'excellent' fish and chips
For the latest edition of the Daily Record's weekly series showcasing the best towns and villages in Scotland, we have chosen the lovely little village of Fort Augustus.
After a long winter and an underwhelming start to the spring, things are finally looking up.
With much of Scotland seeing warmer temperatures and sunnier skies in recent days, it feels like summer is at last just around the corner. If you have been holding off on booking a staycation because of the rain and cold, now is your chance.
When it comes to holiday destinations in Scotland, there really is no wrong answer. From the storybook forests of the Scottish Borders to the rugged mountains of the Highlands and Islands, there is something for everyone.
There is no denying that all of the options can be a little bit overwhelming, though. Fortunately, the Daily Record is here with the latest edition of our weekly series highlighting Scotland's must-visit towns and villages.
This week, we have selected the idyllic little village of Fort Augustus near Inverness. Situated on the southwest edge of Loch Ness, it is the ideal holiday spot for anybody after a peaceful coastal retreat.
In terms of things to see and do, there is a surprising amount to keep you busy in the small village. From the historic Clansman Centre to the picturesque Loch Ness View Point, you definitely won't be bored.
Meanwhile, Fort Augustus also has plenty of comfy pubs and mouth-watering restaurants to check out. One of them has even been singled out by visitors for its "excellent" fish and chips.
Keep reading for some photos that will no doubt convince you that Fort Augustus is worth a visit this spring. Meanwhile, some of the Daily Record's previous towns and villages of the week can be found below:
The Scottish island village with 'exceptional' restaurant perfect for spring getaway
The underrated Scottish fishing village with idyllic beach and 'best fish and chips ever'
The seaside Scottish village just out of Edinburgh with 'hidden gem' restaurant
The stunning Scottish island with 'comfy' garden tearoom named 'best place to live'
The Scottish coastal 'hidden gem' village home to 'lovely' seafood and palm trees
The Scottish village home to 'epic' seafood and country's most picturesque road
The seaside Scottish Borders village home to sandy beach and 'idyllic' holiday park
The tranquil Scottish village home to 'little gem' restaurant with open fire
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - sign up to the Scotland Now newsletter here.
Fort Augustus is maybe best known for its position along the 60-mile Caledonian Canal, which should definitely be the first thing you check out when arriving in the village. If you're lucky, you will be able to watch a colourful boat descend in a series of locks to the level of Loch Ness. There is even a Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre, which you can visit to learn more about the history of the canal.
(Image: Westend61 / Getty Images)1 of 5
Another highlight of Fort Augustus is The Clansman Centre, situated within the walls of a 19th-century schoolhouse. Stepping inside, you will be transported back hundreds of years in time while suitably dressed guides teach you all about 17th-century clan weaponry. There is also a gift shop, which is the perfect place to pick up some Celtic and locally produced crafts and trinkets.
(Image: Google Maps)2 of 5
Being located right on the southernmost tip of Loch Ness, there is unsurprisingly a wealth of scenic walking and hiking trails near Fort Augustus. If it is breathtaking views out over the loch you are after, then you should make a beeline for the Loch Ness View Point. Here, the peaceful waters stretch out as far as the eye can see — and you might even catch a glimpse of Nessie herself.
(Image: Photo © Jim Barton (cc-by-sa/2.0))3 of 5![]()
Elsewhere, Loch Tarff is another beautiful loch on the southeastern side of Loch Ness. Just a few miles from Fort Augustus, it is a perfect quieter alternative if it is true peace and quiet you are after. If you're a fan of the 1983 Scottish film Local Hero, then it is a must-visit — as footage of the loch was used in the feel-good cult classic.
(Image: Chris McLoughlin / Getty Images)4 of 5![]()
Whether you are looking to stay the night and make a proper holiday out of a visit to Fort Augustus, or are just feeling a bit peckish after a few hours exploring the area, make sure you head to The Lock Inn. Sitting in a lovely position at the side of the Caledonian Canal Locks, you can enjoy some classic pub grub while looking out over the canal. Recent reviews on travel website Tripadvisor, where the inn has an average rating of four out of five based on 1,810 reviews, have called it "cosy" and singled out its "excellent" fish and chips.
(Image: Photo © Kenneth Allen (cc-by-sa/2.0))5 of 5
