Speedbird: Fort Augustus

Fort Augustus United Kingdom

Nestled at the southern tip of Loch Ness in the Scottish Highlands, Fort Augustus is a charming village where history and dramatic landscapes meet. Once a strategic military outpost, today it’s a peaceful gateway to explore the Great Glen, framed by rolling hills, dark waters, and expansive skies that shift in mood with the weather. The village is small and walkable, with stone cottages, cozy pubs, and local shops that give it an intimate, welcoming feel. The focal point of life here is the Caledonian Canal, designed by the famed engineer Thomas Telford. In Fort Augustus, a series of impressive canal locks step down to Loch Ness; in summer, you can spend a surprising amount of time simply watching boats navigate the lock system, accompanied by the clank of gates and the hum of engines. Footpaths along the canal and loch provide easy, scenic walks, ideal for a gentle introduction to Highland landscapes without the need for strenuous hiking. Fort Augustus is also one of the best places to experience Loch Ness up close. Boat cruises depart regularly, offering commentary on the loch’s geology, history, and of course the enduring legend of the Loch Ness Monster. On shore, you’ll find small visitor centres and exhibits that bring the area’s history to life—from the remains of the 18th-century fort to the story of monastic life at the former Benedictine abbey, now partly converted into holiday apartments. Though the village itself is tranquil, it makes a practical base for exploring more of the Highlands. Day trips can take you along the Great Glen Way, to nearby Urquhart Castle, or further afield to Inverness, Fort William, and the dramatic mountain scenery of Glen Coe and Ben Nevis. After a day out, return to Fort Augustus for a hearty meal in a local inn, where you can sample traditional Scottish dishes and perhaps a dram of whisky, rounding off a day in one of Scotland’s most atmospheric corners.

Recommended airport

Edinburgh (EDI)

Nearby destinations

Fort Augustus, United Kingdom

Fort Augustus United Kingdom