The reporting of something unusual and unexplained in Loch Ness took its modern form and began to interest the media in the 1930s. It has been a tourist attraction ever since. Loch Ness is Scotland's largest Loch in terms of its volume, and it is more than 600ft (180m) deep for much of its 23 miles (37km) length. The sightings over the years are at the core of the Loch Ness Centre Exhibition and the Original Loch Ness Monster Visitors Centre, both at Drumnadrochit. In addition, the complex here has wide-ranging quality souvenir shopping, including kilts and whisky.

Loch Ness has much more than an elusive monster. There are plenty of attractions on both sides of the loch. These include the interesting 3-acre garden at Abriachan, while just below Drumnadrochit is Urquhart Castle with its visitor centre telling the story of this important Great Glen fortress. Fort Augustus is a good place to watch the life of the Caledonian Canal at the series of locks here. Also here, visitors can enjoy the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre, a Rare Breeds Park and also the Clansman Centre, a living museum based round a reconstructed 17th century turf house. Costumed (and armed!) clansfolk give a vivid insight into Highland life of old.

The east side of the loch is the quieter of the two sides. The roads here were originally built as military roads to connect the garrison at Inverness with Fort Augustus and Fort William. From the Suidhe Chumein viewpoint on the B862, the straightness of the soldiers' work can be appreciated. The Falls of Foyers on the B852, as the road descends to loch level, are also worth viewing and there are places along this narrower road where good views of the loch can be peacefully enjoyed.

Activities in the area include walking the Great Glen Way (though there are also shorter walks), cycling on the Great Glen Cycleway, also pony trekking, golf and angling. In summary, this is an area close to Inverness with fine scenery but also a good choice for families, especially on the water, with motor-cruisers for hire and also guided cruises available on Loch Ness.