Loch Ness

Loch Ness is most often visited on day trips from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen that incorporate other Highlands attractions such as Urquhart Castle (Caisteal na Sròine), Stirling Castle, Caledonian Canal, Glencoe (Glen Coe), Rannoch Moor, Cairngorms National Park, and even Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Shorter half-day trips, which usually include a boat cruise on the lake, typically depart from Inverness, while cruise-ship passengers can take shore excursions from Invergordon. Motorized boat trips are the most common way for visitors to scour Nessie's lair, though it's also possible to paddle a canoe or kayak out on the loch, or even take a self-guided cycling trip.

• Nessie rumors began when an Irish monk caught sight of something unusual swimming in the lake's inky waters in the seventh century.

• For more background on the Nessie phenomenon, visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition at Drumnadrochit.

• Wear warm clothes, including a waterproof outer layer, as it can get cold on the water.

• Day trips from Edinburgh and Glasgow generally last around 12 hours.

• The Loch Ness Centre is wheelchair accessible, but most boat trips are not.

• Bring your camera so you can document any possible Nessie sightings.

Loch Ness stretches between Inverness and Fort Augustus and is one of many such lakes located along the Great Glen. Tours from Inverness, Edinburgh, and Glasgow typically include round-trip transportation to cruise departure points such as Clansman Harbour, Dochgarroch, and Tomnahurich Bridge.

Boat trips around Loch Ness run year-round, though they are weather-dependent. In summer, the main A82 thoroughfare between Fort William and Inverness sees a lot of traffic, and sightseeing cruises often sell out—so buy tickets in advance.

For the best chances of glimpsing the fabled Loch Ness Monster, choose a boat that is fitted with special onboard sonar systems to ensure Nessie doesn't swim by unnoticed. If you're worried the sound of a motor may disturb Nessie, opt for a canoe or kayak tour instead. And if water isn't your thing, the high lakeside perch that houses the ruins of Urquhart Castle makes for a great viewing spot, with uninterrupted lake panoramas.

It depends on how you want to experience Loch Ness. If you just want to admire the lake from the shore, you only need 20 minutes or so. If you want to cruise on Loch Ness, walk around the area, or visit Urquhart Castle, you will need half a day.

Tours include Loch Ness boat tours on the lake that introduce you to its history and legends (does Nessie sound familiar?); visits to the ruins of historic Urquhart Castle; walking tours along the banks of Loch Ness; and visits to nearby whisky distilleries. It's also a typical stop on guided tours of the Highlands.

Yes, you should book Loch Ness tickets for tours in advance. It's one of Scotland's most-visited destinations, and tours often book up early, especially during the busy summer. Avoid disappointment by making arrangements ahead of time.

The best time to visit is between May and September, when Scotland's notoriously fickle weather is at its best. June, July, and August bring enormous crowds, however. A visit in May or September offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

Yes, there is parking at various places around Loch Ness. Visitors can park in the large parking lot in the center of Fort Augustus, adjacent to the public restrooms and picnic area. Visitors can also park at the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit or Urquhart Castle.

Yes, but it is not advisable. Loch Ness is a very deep lake and bitterly cold all year round—rarely warmer than 41°F (5°C), which presents a high risk of hypothermia. Only very experienced outdoor swimmers should attempt a dip in Loch Ness.