Coastal campsites near Drumnadrochit with surfing
Drumnadrochit is immersed in the legends of Loch Ness and surrounded by stunning Highland scenery.
- Drumnadrochit
Popular camping styles for Drumnadrochit
Coastal campsites near Drumnadrochit with surfing guide
Overview
The Highland village of Drumnadrochit is a hotbed of tourist activities. Lying on the west shore of the legendary Loch Ness, the village pulls in a huge number of visitors in search of its infamous monster. Beyond Nessie-hunting, outdoor adventurers will find plenty to do, from exploring the romantic ruin of the lochside Urquhart Castle and sailing on the loch, to mountain biking along rugged trails and embarking on the 78-mile (125-kilometer) Great Glen Way. Overnight options in and around the village include cozy glamping pods and well-equipped caravan parks.
Where to go
Loch Ness
Loch Ness Bay Camping is located on a working farm, a 15-minute walk from the western shores of Loch Ness and surrounded by scenic beauty. The site covers a grassy field close to an indoor riding school, and has spacious hardstanding pitches, with or without electric hook ups. The farm also has two self-catering cottages for rent. A few minutes inland, Loch Ness Glamping has options ranging from glamping pods to a farmhouse apartment.
Bearnock
Around a 10-minute drive west of Drumnadrochit, the Bearnock Country Centre has pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes in its tranquil, shaded campsite on the edge of the River Enrick. The site is the ideal location for exploring the area by foot or bike and also has a selection of wood ‘hobbit houses’ for a glamping experience.
Abriachan
High above the western shore of Loch Ness, and a 10-minute drive north of Drumnadrochit, the village of Abriachan is home to the 1,324-acre (536-hectare) Abriachan Forest, around which there are a number of paths and mountain bike trails— the Great Glen Way long-distance path also passes through. Set in woodland, Camping Pod Heaven offers a range of glamping pods with easy access to mountain biking, canoeing and hiking.
When to go
For optimum weather and long daylight hours, the best time to visit Drumnadrochit and the surrounding area is from May through August. However, this is the busiest season, especially during school summer holidays. Although the weather will be cooler, you can avoid the biggest crowds by visiting in April or September instead. If you plan to visit outside of the spring/summer months, it’s a good idea to check that sites are open.
Know before you go
- Wild camping is legal in Scotland as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- Biting midges are a common nuisance during the summer in the Scottish Highlands. Don’t forget to pack repellant and long sleeves.
- Local buses connect Drumnadrochit with Inverness, from where you can take trains and buses to Aberdeen, Edinburgh and beyond.
- There are some small stores in Drumnadrochit but Inverness is your best bet for stocking up on supplies.
