Loch Ness Viewpoint at Strone
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over the legendary Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands from the serene Strone viewpoint.
Perched at Strone near Inverness, the Loch Ness Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic vistas over the legendary Loch Ness and the surrounding Scottish Highlands. This serene spot reveals the loch’s dramatic narrowness and vast length, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and those intrigued by the myths of Nessie. Easily accessible and surrounded by tranquil natural beauty, it provides a memorable Highland experience.
A brief summary to Loch Ness Viewpoint
- 8GJX+C8, Inverness, Strone, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a camera or binoculars to fully appreciate the expansive views and wildlife.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Urquhart Castle for a fuller Loch Ness experience.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path from the parking area to the viewpoint is short but uneven.
- Check local weather forecasts as the Highlands can be changeable; clear skies offer the best visibility.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Drive via the A82 from Inverness, approximately 20 minutes (15 miles). Parking is available near the viewpoint. Note that the road can be narrow and winding; drive cautiously. There is no parking fee.
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Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus 17 from Inverness city center to Drumnadrochit, then a local taxi or a 30-minute walk to the viewpoint. Bus journeys take about 45-60 minutes and cost approximately £5-£8 one way.
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Walking
From Drumnadrochit village, a scenic but moderately long walk of about 6 km (1.5–2 hours) along minor roads and trails leads to the viewpoint. Terrain is mostly flat but uneven in places.
Loch Ness Viewpoint location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Loch Ness Viewpoint
A Window to the Mystical Loch Ness
Loch Ness Viewpoint at Strone is a celebrated vantage point that captures the essence of one of Scotland’s most famous natural landmarks. From here, visitors can gaze along the narrow, elongated body of Loch Ness, which stretches approximately 23 miles (36 km) through the Highlands. The viewpoint reveals the loch’s dramatic scale and mysterious depths, evoking centuries of folklore and the enduring legend of the Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as Nessie.Scenic Surroundings and Highland Atmosphere
The viewpoint is nestled in a tranquil area near Strone, just west of Inverness, surrounded by the lush greenery and rugged hills characteristic of the Scottish Highlands. The landscape here combines serene waters with rolling hills, offering a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts with the loch’s vastness. The spot is ideal for quiet reflection, photography, and appreciating the natural beauty of the Highlands.Historical and Cultural Resonance
Loch Ness has long inspired myths, stories, and scientific curiosity. The viewpoint at Strone provides a tangible connection to this cultural heritage, allowing visitors to imagine the centuries of tales and sightings that have made Loch Ness a symbol of mystery worldwide. Nearby, historical sites such as Urquhart Castle add depth to the region’s rich narrative, blending natural wonder with human history.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
The Loch Ness Viewpoint is easily accessible by car along the A82, with parking nearby. A short walk from the parking area leads to the viewing platform, which offers unobstructed views of the loch. The terrain is gentle, making it suitable for most visitors, including families and casual walkers. The site is open year-round, welcoming visitors in all seasons to experience the changing moods of the loch and Highlands.Photography and Wildlife Opportunities
This viewpoint is a favored spot for photographers seeking to capture the iconic landscape of Loch Ness. The interplay of light on the water and hills creates dramatic scenes, especially during sunrise and sunset. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts may also spot local wildlife, including waterfowl and Highland fauna, adding to the richness of the visit.Connection to the Loch Ness 360° Trail
The viewpoint forms part of the broader Loch Ness 360° Trail, a circular route that links several key sights around the loch. It offers a peaceful pause on this journey, allowing visitors to absorb the grandeur of the loch before continuing to other highlights such as Dores Beach and Urquhart Castle. This connectivity enhances its appeal as part of a comprehensive Highland exploration.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Drumdevan Country House, Inverness
17.6 km
Historic Victorian charm meets tranquil Highland surroundings just minutes from Inverness and Loch Ness.
Highland Scenery
19.0 km
Discover the mesmerizing landscapes of Highland Scenery, a photographer’s dream in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Lochardil House
19.0 km
Historic charm meets peaceful gardens and warm hospitality in this cozy Inverness retreat with excellent dining and modern comforts.
Torrish at Ness Walk
20.3 km
Experience the essence of Scottish cuisine at Torrish at Ness Walk, where fine dining meets breathtaking views of the River Ness.
Ness Walk Hotel - 5 Star Luxury Inverness Hotel
20.3 km
Elegant 5-star luxury on the River Ness, blending historic charm with modern comfort and acclaimed Highland dining.
Great War Memorial
20.5 km
A solemn red sandstone Celtic cross on the banks of the River Ness, honouring Inverness’s fallen from the World Wars and later conflicts.
Rowan Guest House Group Ltd
20.7 km
Comfortable and welcoming bed and breakfast in Inverness, perfect for exploring the Scottish Highlands with quality breakfast and friendly hospitality.
Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel Inverness
20.7 km
Elegant riverside boutique hotel in Inverness offering stylish rooms, award-winning dining, and a gateway to the Scottish Highlands.
Rocpool Reserve Hotel
20.8 km
A stylish 5-star boutique hotel in Inverness offering luxurious rooms, acclaimed dining, and a serene city-centre retreat.
Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
20.8 km
Experience the charm of the Scottish Highlands at Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments, your ideal base in Inverness for relaxation and adventure.
Ness Bank Church
20.9 km
A stunning Gothic Revival church on the River Ness, blending rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant community life in Inverness.
Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
21.0 km
Elegant riverside hotel blending historic charm with modern spa comforts in the heart of Inverness.
Highland Historical Home
21.0 km
Discover the Highland Historical Home in Inverness, where Scottish heritage meets modern comfort in a charming holiday apartment rental.
Urquhart's Restaurant
21.0 km
Discover the flavors of Scotland at Urquhart's Restaurant, where British and European cuisine meet warm Highland hospitality.
Inverness Bike Tours
21.0 km
Experience the stunning landscapes and rich history of Inverness with guided bike tours through the Scottish Highlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Urquhart Castle
1.0 km
Explore the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle overlooking Loch Ness, where a millennium of Scottish history and stunning Highland views await.
The Loch Ness Centre
1.7 km
Explore the legend and science of Nessie at the immersive Loch Ness Centre, the birthplace of the world-famous monster myth.
Great Glen Distillery - Scotlands Smallest Craft Distillery
1.7 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest craft distillery nestled by Loch Ness, where local botanicals and Highland water create award-winning gin.
Loch Ness Hub & Travel
1.8 km
Community-owned visitor centre offering expert local advice, tours, bike hire, and authentic Highland crafts in the heart of Drumnadrochit.
Nessieland
1.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish charm and stunning Loch Ness views at this cozy Highland lodge in Drumnadrochit.
Loch Ness Statue
5.1 km
Discover the striking steel statue of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, set against the breathtaking Highland landscape near Inverness.
Loch Ness Alpacas
6.9 km
Meet and trek with friendly alpacas on the scenic shores of Loch Ness for a unique Highland adventure.
Dores Beach
9.1 km
Discover stunning views, tranquil walks, and a touch of Loch Ness mystery at Dores Beach near Inverness.
Falls of Foyers
9.4 km
Discover the dramatic 140-foot Falls of Foyers, a scenic waterfall and woodland walk on Loch Ness’s southern shore near Inverness.
Lochend beach
11.2 km
Discover the tranquil pebble shores and breathtaking vistas of Lochend Beach, a serene Highland escape at the edge of legendary Loch Ness.
RSPB Loch Ruthven
11.4 km
A serene Highland loch renowned for rare Slavonian Grebes, peaceful trails, and rich wildlife in a protected natural setting.
Highland Discovery Transfers and Tours
12.4 km
Personalized private tours and transfers through the Scottish Highlands with expert local guide Andrew Mason.
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival
12.9 km
Experience Scotland’s beloved family-friendly music and arts festival set in the stunning Highlands, blending culture, community, and live performances.
Reelig Glen
14.1 km
Discover towering ancient trees, serene woodland trails, and historic charm in the enchanting Reelig Glen near Inverness.
Corrimony Chambered Cairn
14.2 km
Explore the ancient Corrimony Chambered Cairn, a 4,000-year-old Bronze Age burial site surrounded by standing stones in scenic Glen Urquhart.
Essential places to dine
The Lewiston
1.4 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and hearty Scottish cuisine near the legendary Loch Ness at The Lewiston.
Fiddlers Highland Restaurant
1.8 km
Cozy Highland dining with authentic Scottish flavors and an award-winning whisky selection in the heart of Loch Ness country.
The Dores Inn
9.1 km
A welcoming Highland pub with stunning Loch Ness views, hearty fare, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for soaking in Scotland’s natural beauty.
The Struy Inn (Casa Mia)
16.3 km
A cozy 19th-century Highland inn offering intimate dining with Scottish-Argentinian fusion cuisine and a welcoming bar by the wood stove.
Downright Gabbler
16.9 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality with exceptional food, immersive storytelling, and cozy apartments in the heart of Beauly.
Loch Ness House Beefeater
19.3 km
Family-friendly steakhouse and bar & grill in Inverness offering hearty British classics and a welcoming atmosphere.
Black BX Food
19.4 km
Casual canal-side eatery in Inverness serving fresh, tasty meals with vegan options and a friendly vibe.
Contrast Brasserie Inverness
20.7 km
Stylish riverside dining with fresh, modern Scottish and Pan-Asian cuisine in Inverness’s renowned Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel.
The Waterside Restaurant
20.7 km
Scenic riverside dining in Inverness serving sustainable, locally sourced Scottish cuisine with handcrafted spirits from the adjacent distillery.
Tiger on The Wall
20.9 km
Authentic Indian and Asian flavors served daily in the heart of Inverness at Tiger on The Wall, Strathness House’s celebrated restaurant.
Hou Hou Mei
20.9 km
Discover Hou Hou Mei, Inverness’s vibrant Asian fusion restaurant blending Thai, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese flavors with generous vegan options.
Encore
21.0 km
Experience hearty Scottish flavors and warm hospitality at Encore, Inverness’s vibrant restaurant and bar on Young Street.
La Tortilla
21.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and paella in Inverness’s oldest and most beloved tapas bar, blending vibrant flavors with Highland charm.
The Kitchen Restaurant
21.0 km
Savor inventive modern British cuisine with stunning River Ness views in a stylish, family-run Inverness restaurant.
Cafe 1
21.1 km
Experience the best of Highland cuisine with locally sourced dishes and warm hospitality in the heart of Inverness.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Loch Ness Gifts
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and Nessie-themed gifts in the heart of Drumnadrochit, near the legendary Loch Ness.
Great Glen Gifts
1.8 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and Nessie souvenirs at Great Glen Gifts, your charming family-run shop in the heart of Loch Ness country.
Loch Ness Nessie Shop
5.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Nessie souvenirs in a friendly, family-run shop near Loch Ness in Inverness.
Ness Gifts
9.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and souvenirs at Ness Gifts, a charming boutique in Dores near Loch Ness.
James Pringle Weavers
18.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish weaving heritage and quality textiles at James Pringle Weavers in the historic Holm Woollen Mills, Inverness.
Dalneigh Stores
20.0 km
Explore Inverness with ease! Dalneigh Stores is your go-to convenience shop for essentials and local delights, open daily from early morning to night.
The Merchant
20.9 km
Discover Inverness’s hidden antique gem blending vintage treasures with modern charm on Greig Street.
Highland House of Fraser
21.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish Highland dress and witness traditional kilt making at Highland House of Fraser in Inverness, a family-run heritage landmark.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
21.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish woollens and heritage craftsmanship at James Pringle Weavers in the heart of Inverness.
The Whisky Shop
21.1 km
Discover Scotland’s finest whiskies and expert tastings in the heart of Inverness at The Whisky Shop.
Judith Glue
21.1 km
Discover authentic Orkney knitwear and Scottish gifts in a charming Inverness boutique blending heritage and style near the River Ness.
Rouge Boutiques
21.1 km
Discover personalized style and expert fittings at Rouge Boutiques, Inverness’ destination for elegant womenswear and exceptional service.
GLENEAGLES OF SCOTLAND
21.1 km
A refined Scottish clothing shop in Inverness, specialising in premium knitwear and country-style fashion with a Highland soul.
Primark
21.1 km
Discover budget-friendly fashion and homeware in Inverness city centre at Primark’s welcoming multi-floor store.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
21.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and heritage fashion at Edinburgh Woollen Mill in the heart of Inverness.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Three Witches
19.2 km
Family-friendly pub in Inverness offering a warm welcome, great carvery, vegan options, and dog-friendly spaces with a lively, casual atmosphere.
Dows Bar
20.7 km
A welcoming gastropub in Inverness blending local flavors, craft beers, and lively sports in a family-friendly setting.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
20.7 km
Discover Inverness’s premier whisky and piano bar, blending riverside elegance with live music and an extensive malt whisky collection.
Clachnaharry Inn
21.0 km
Experience authentic Highland hospitality, fine whiskies, and stunning Beauly Firth views at the welcoming Clachnaharry Inn.
The Wee Bar
21.0 km
A cosy Inverness cocktail bar above Ness Walk, famed for masterful drinks, Highland hospitality, and a warm, intimate vibe.
Glenalbyn Bar
21.0 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with fine whiskies, live music, and a cozy atmosphere at Glenalbyn Bar in Inverness.
Revolution Inverness
21.2 km
Trendy city-centre bar and restaurant in Inverness known for lively vibes, cocktails, and comfort food favorites.
Lauders
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Inverness at Lauders Bar, where tradition meets lively nightlife and warm Scottish hospitality.
Caledonian
21.2 km
A lively and affordable Scottish pub on Inverness High Street, perfect for classic pub fare and spirited local atmosphere.
The Auctioneers
21.2 km
Lively Inverness pub and sports bar serving hearty traditional fare in a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere on Church Street.
Highlander
21.2 km
Experience daily live Scottish music, authentic cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere at Highlander Bar, Inverness’s cultural heart.
Hootananny
21.3 km
Experience the heart of Scottish folk music and vibrant nightlife at Hootananny, Inverness’s award-winning live music bar and restaurant.
The Malt Room
21.3 km
Discover Inverness’s cozy whisky sanctuary with expert hosts, rare malts, and a warm, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring every dram.
R&Bs
21.3 km
A lively family-run bar and restaurant in Inverness offering local flavors, gluten-free dishes, and the Highlands’ only karaoke nights.
MacCallums Bar
21.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere at MacCallums Bar, Inverness’s beloved traditional pub.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Private Eyes Inverness
21.4 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
The Ross Shire Club
29.4 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
The Vault
40.6 km
Experience Aviemore’s vibrant nightlife at The Vault, a lively nightclub blending modern beats with Highland charm every weekend.
The Aviemore Inn pub and grill
40.9 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Aviemore Inn, the perfect pub and grill in the heart of Aviemore for travelers and locals alike.
Xplosive Discos
42.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
Woodshed Bar
42.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Woodshed Bar in Aviemore, where delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere await you.
Uncle Bob's Bar
44.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Uncle Bob's Bar in Nairn, a perfect blend of traditional pub charm and sports excitement.
Aido's bar
44.8 km
Discover Aido's Bar in Nairn: A cozy pub with a friendly atmosphere, serving a great selection of local ales and spirits.
The Play House
44.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Play House in Nairn, where great drinks and lively entertainment come together for an unforgettable evening.
Seaforth Club
45.0 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Jackos Bar & Diner
45.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill options at Jackos Bar & Diner in Nairn, perfect for families and sports fans alike.
The Pine Marten Bar
48.9 km
Experience the warmth of Scottish hospitality at The Pine Marten Bar, where delicious food and breathtaking views combine for an unforgettable visit.
Roobarb
69.9 km
Experience Fort William’s vibrant nightlife at Roobarb, the welcoming nightclub where music and dancing light up weekend nights.
Bertie's Bar
73.0 km
Experience the charm of Scottish hospitality at Bertie's Bar in Braemar, where exquisite cocktails meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Elsa's Bar
73.0 km
Discover Elsa's Bar in Braemar, a cocktail oasis offering exquisite drinks and a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly