The best walks and hikes around Glenurquhart

Yes, the area offers several gentle walks suitable for families. The paths through Urquhart Bay Wood are particularly good for a relaxed stroll along the river and lochside. Many of the lower-level forest trails are well-suited for all ages.

Glenurquhart is a great place to hike with a dog. The numerous woodland paths, such as those in Urquhart Woods, are ideal for letting them explore. As always, please keep your dog under control, especially near farmland with livestock and during bird nesting seasons on open moorland.

Yes, many trails in the region are designed as loops, so you can start and end in the same place without retracing your steps. The View of Loch Ness – Urquhart Castle loop from Drumnadrochit is a great example, combining woodland paths and loch views into a convenient circuit.

The region has some lovely waterfall walks. A popular choice is the trail to the Divach Falls, which is featured in the Divach Falls – View of Loch Ness loop from Sròn Dubh. The nearby Falls of Foyers are also a spectacular sight, with well-maintained paths leading to viewpoints.

For a panoramic view from above, the summit of Meall Fuar-mhonaidh offers one of the best perspectives over the entire length of Loch Ness. For lower-level views, the paths around Urquhart Castle provide classic, iconic scenery of the castle ruins against the backdrop of the loch.

You can find nearly 40 curated hiking routes around Glenurquhart on komoot. These range from 14 easy walks perfect for a short outing to over 20 moderate trails for those seeking more of a challenge. There is also one difficult route for experienced hikers.

The trails here are highly regarded by the komoot community, with over 6,000 hikers exploring the area. Reviewers often praise the stunning views of Loch Ness, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the variety of walks available for all fitness levels.

Parking availability varies by trail. For hikes starting near Drumnadrochit, there are public car parks in the village. Popular trailheads, like the one for Meall Fuar-mhonaidh or the Falls of Foyers, have their own dedicated parking areas, though they can be busy. It's always best to arrive early.

Yes, Glenurquhart is a key point on several major long-distance paths. Both the coast-to-coast Great Glen Way and the circular Loch Ness 360 trail run directly through the glen. Additionally, the Affric Kintail Way starts in Drumnadrochit, leading west into some of Scotland's most celebrated scenery.

Scottish weather is famously changeable, so layers are essential regardless of the season. Always bring a waterproof jacket and trousers, even if the forecast is good. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended as paths can be rocky, muddy, and uneven. In summer, insect repellent for midges is a wise addition.

Yes, the main village of Drumnadrochit is well-serviced by buses running between Inverness and Fort William, making it a convenient base. From the village, you can access several trailheads on foot. For more remote routes, you may need to arrange a taxi. You can find local transport information at visitinvernesslochness.com.