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Out & About in Fort Augustus
What to do in the Local Area
Morags Lodge provides cheap hostel accommodation in Fort Augustus where backpackers and family groups on a budget will find much to see and do. Fort Augustus is situated at the southern end of Loch Ness and is a great base for exploring the magnificent Great Glen, which runs from Fort William to Inverness.
Local Attractions
Fort Augustus is one of the most charming towns in the Highlands, set on the banks of Loch Ness. Fort Augustus is named after the infamous Duke of Cumberland (Butcher Cumberland as he was called by the Scots after Culloden) and the town is home to the famous Caledonian Canal.
Caledonian Canal
The Canal was built in the early 1800s to link the North Sea and the Atlantic, removing the need for shipping to sail around Scotland's dangerous north East coast. Within the village itself is an impressive flight of locks, and here in the town the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre offers an interesting display on the history and operation of the canal.
Nessie!
Why not relax by the Loch and try some Nessie spotting or enjoy a Loch Ness cruise? Find out about the history of the Loch Ness Monster at one of the 2 rival monster exhibitions at Drumnadrochit!
Urquhart Castle
Urquhart Castle is an impressive historic ruin enjoying a stunning location on the banks of Loch Ness. It was an important medieval fortress, guarding the entrance to the Great Glen from the 13th Century and playing a major role in 500 years of violent Scottish history.
Clansman Centre
Take a walk or cycle through the network of paths around the village. Visit the Clansman Centre to find out about Highland life in the 17th Century
Local Activities
Outdoor Activities
Get out there! There is huge choice of fantastic hillwalking, mountain biking, cycling and watersports available locally. Explore the Great Glen Way and the famous Corrieyairack Pass. In winter a range of snowsports including skiing and boarding are available at Nevis Range (40 mins' drive) by Ben Nevis. Creag Meagaidh and the Glen Sheil peaks are both within easy striking distance of the hostel.
Corrieyairack Pass
For serious mountain bikers and walkers, the classic Corrieyairack pass is accessible from Fort Augustus. This demanding route (40 km) follows General Wade's military road, built in 1731, and its famous zigzags across the Monadhliath Mountains between Fort Augustus and Laggan (south of Newtonmore).
Day Trips
Glen Affric (drivetime 40 mins)
Glen Affric is one of Scotland 's most picturesque glens, and home to one of the largest remains of ancient pinewood forests with spectacular loch and mountain views and numerous opportunities for spotting wildlife.
Eilean Donan Castle (drivetime 1 hour)
Perhaps the most photographed and romantic castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan is a wonderful castle on Loch Duich surrounded by mountains and the hereditary seat for Clan MacRae since the 16th Century. Featured in Hollywood blockbusters such as Highlander and James Bond (the World is Not Enough).
Isle of Skye (drivetime 1 hour 20 mins)
The magical Isle of Skye is a land of legend, myth and mystery. Stunning mountains, castles and a unique mixture of Viking and Celtic culture. With stunning coastal views, keep your eye out for whales, dolphins, sharks and seals.
Inverness (drivetime 45 mins)
The capital of of the highlands is well worth a visit. visit Fort George -for a slice of Scottish military history (open all year) or go Dolphin spotting on the Moray Firth.
Culloden (drivetime 1 hour)
Scene of the infamous battle in 1746 which saw Bonnie Prince Charlie's Jacobite rebellion finally crushed. Over 1200 highlanders were slaughtered, full of atmostphere, and a place for reflection.
Ben Nevis (drivetime 40 mins)
Britain's Highest Mountain stands at 4406ft (1344m). It is popular with both walkers in climbers and its summit is not be underestimated. Mighty Ben Nevis is covered in cloud on approximately 300 days of the year.
Glencoe (drivetime 1 hour 30 mins)
One of the most dramatic sites in the Scottish Highlands and scene of the infamous massacre in 1692. Glencoe is a mystical and magical place. Surrounded by towering peaks, with its rich and bloody history, it will leave a lasting impression.
