The South Loch Ness Trail was originally opened in August 2011, stretching from Loch Tarff to Inverness. The 36-mile path follows the wilder south side of the loch, with varied scenery and superb views down onto the famous waters. With the Great Glen Way already stretching along the north side of Loch Ness, an additional path was added in 2018 to link Fort Augustus with Loch Tarff, allowing walkers to combine the two long distance routes and complete a full circuit of Loch Ness with the 80-mile Loch Ness 360.
To promote the launch of the trail and create a sustainable event, Visit Inverness Loch Ness planned the Loch Ness 360 Challenge to take place in 2020. Held over three days, the event includes an ultra-marathon, three marathons and a mountain bike race. Due to the pandemic the event has been postponed until May 2022, nevertheless it is expected to bring competitors and their friends and family to the area to stay in local accommodation and discover the destination.
Over the last 12 months more than 2,000 visitors passed a people counter close to Loch Tarff, and the positive impacts has been felt by a range of accommodation and activity providers, as well as local shops, cafes and restaurants.
To support a sustainable future and promote responsible tourism, a Loch Ness Ranger has been appointed through a partnership with Highland Council to help promote responsible behaviour from visitors and locals, and providing information and adding signage for longer term impacts. There are also plans underway to refresh some of the original signage and use the opportunity to promote local authentic experiences.
Michael Golding, CEO of Visit Inverness Loch Ness said, “With a need to move to a low carbon tourism economy and a visitor desire for authentic slow tourism experiences, the South Loch Ness Trail is well positioned to play a key role int he future of our destination.
“With the support of key stakeholders, the trail has continued to develop as has its importance to local businesses. Likewise, local people have benefitted from having such a great opportunity for fresh air and spectacular views on their doorstep.
“We will continue to work closely with partners and stakeholders to ensure the South Loch Ness Trail and the Loch Ness 360 fulfils its potential and continues to grow from strength to strength.”
Chris Taylor, VisitScotland Regional Leadership Director said, “I’m delighted to see the 10th anniversary of the South Loch Ness Trails being marked. These trails really are a brilliant resource for visitors and local alike. Their popularity helped lead to further investment to create the Loch Ness 360, and looking ahead to 2022, stimulated major new running, cycling and walking events in the area.
“Visitors are drawn to the Highlands for their stunning landscapes and scenery, and the trails play an important part in helping visitors to not only enjoy the area but to slow down and stay a bit longer, as well as promoting more responsible forms of tourism, creating economic and social benefits for the region.”
For more information on the trail visit lochness360.com.
