ACTIVITIES

We have so many fantastic walking options on our doorstep. Whatever your fitness level, our friendly staff are on hand to advise you. You can download local Fort Augustus walking maps here and the Local Heritage Trail Map here. We are located half way along the Great Glen Way, a long-distance walking path that linking Fort William and Inverness, making us an ideal stopover for those walking the route. We would recommend WalkHighlands for excellent suggestions of walks in the area.

There are a number of fantastic cycling routes in the Loch Ness area – you can expect fantastic views and amazing Highland scenery. Our hostel has great cycling facilities: secure storage, laundry service and a drying room for wet kit. Sustrans Route 78 runs through Fort Augustus and there are plenty of forest trail and quiet single-track road in the area. We are also a short drive from the renowned Nevis Range which has a wide range of mountain bike trails to suit all abilities.

Cruise Loch Ness offer daily boat trips on Loch Ness throughout the year. The departure point is only 5 minutes’ walk from our front door. Whether you are looking for a tranquil cruise taking in the spectacular Scottish scenery, a more exhilarating power boat trip on a rigid inflatable boat (RIBs) or to hire one of their fleet for your special occasion, then we can help. For more details and to book your cruise, please ask at reception. 

Enjoy amazing views across Loch Ness and learn about 100 years of dramatic history from the ruins of one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. Urquhart castle has an excellent visitor centre and on-site parking. The castle can be reached by a short bus journey or drive from Fort Augustus. You can buy castle tickets from Historic Environment Scotland.

We are perfectly located for spotting lots of local wildlife. Scotland's Big 5 animals (red squirrel, red deer, golden eagle, otter and harbour seal) have all been spotted within 1 hour of our hostel. If you are lucky enough to enjoy a clear night, why not enjoy some star-gazing. You may even spot the Northern Lights! You can download a star map here.

If you are travelling without a car and would like to see more of the Highlands, we would suggest taking a guided day tour. We work with Highland Explorer Tours, who run small group tours from Inverness with local guides. Tours include a day trip to the Isle of Skye and a West Coast adventure which includes a trip on the Harry Potter Express Steam Train.  

We are a short bus or car journey to Inverness which is situated on the banks of the river Ness. There is no shortage of things to do in this charming and historic city. VisitInverness is a fantastic resource offering visitors up-to-date information on local attractions and events.

Looking to try some snow sports while in the area?  We are only 40 minutes from the closest ski area at the Nevis Range. Take a gondola up the mountain to a variety of runs overlooking Scotland's highest mountain, Ben Nevis and take in the spectacular views and clear mountain air. 

The stunning scenery in the Scottish Highlands and around Loch Ness inspires creativeness with many local artists showing their work for free. You can view local galleries and craft works here.