Loch Ness 360 Trail - South Shore Section

The South Loch Ness Trail forms the quieter southern half of the Loch Ness 360° Trail, running for 59 kilometres from Fort Augustus back to Inverness through varied landscapes on the less-visited side of Scotland's most famous loch, taking in the dramatic Falls of Foyers and the celebrated viewpoint at the Fair-Haired Lad's Pass.

The trail begins with a long, gradual ascent from Fort Augustus, climbing to a ridge above Loch Tarff that opens up superb views down Strathnairn — this newly constructed section is suitable for all abilities, though the path becomes more rugged beyond Loch Tarff. Continuing through farmland and alongside rivers, the route reaches the village of Foyers, renowned for its spectacular waterfall, said to have inspired the poet Robert Burns. From Foyers, small paths and tracks lead through farmland into the picturesque valley of Stratherrick, before the route heads through forestry — with some rugged going in places — to the hamlet of Inverfarigaig.

From here, a tiny road climbs into the hills before crossing the Fair-Haired Lad's Pass, one of the highest and most remote points on the entire trail and a genuine highlight, with a superb panorama down over Loch Ness towards Urquhart Castle on the far shore. A long descent to Dores keeps the loch in view for much of the way, arriving at the picturesque pebble beach and the historic Dores Inn — a well-earned stop. The final stretch from Dores to Inverness runs mainly at lower level on a mix of walking track, forestry track, and minor road, crossing Drumashie Moor (boggy in places) before following the River Ness back into the city, finishing at Inverness Castle.

Most walkers complete the full South Loch Ness Trail over two to three days, though individual sections make excellent day walks in their own right — the trail is well waymarked throughout with blue squirrel-symbol markers.

Buses from Inverness serve as far as the Knockie Lodge road end on the B862, calling at Whitebridge, Foyers, Inverfarigaig, and Dores — check Traveline Scotland for current timetables.