When you’ve spent the day hunting high and low for Nessy – aka Scotland‘s most elusive monster – you’ll be hungry to find something real. Enter, the best Loch Ness restaurants, where myth plays sous chef to hearty servings of Scottish food, and drams of whisky wash away any lingering disappointment on the lake shore. Better still? These particular restaurants have rooms upstairs, too, where hotel luxury blends with haute cuisine and your bed is only ever a short stumble away.
For fast and friendly service in an idyllic location, the Dores Inn is the place to go. On the shore of Loch Erne, this family-run business provides incredible views and a simple menu of traditional Scottish fare. In the car park, the Loch Ness Monster hunter (Steve Feltham) sells handmade models of the monster. Since he has spent a quarter of a century hunting Nessie, he’s sure to be able to answer any queries you may have!
For a more contemporary feel, Rocpool Restaurant combines international tastes with Scottish produce in artistic meals such as India-inspired coriander and chilli monkfish stir-fry with king prawns, tender stem broccoli and steamed jasmine rice with minted yoghurt, crushed pistachio and lime; or Grecian sweet pea and halloumi fritters with oven-roasted vine tomatoes, spinach and herb couscous and fresh tzatziki. Enjoy a wide range of choices for dessert, including vanilla crème brûlée or white chocolate and coconut cheesecake with glazed banana and butterscotch sauce.
A beautiful Victorian building set in abundant cultivated grounds, the Lovat Hotel was first recorded as being used as a hotel in 1869. The owners strive for an eco-conscious running of the hotel, and as proof they use a biomass wood-chip boiler, and for every hotel room booked in the hotel they give 15p to a Trees for Life scheme. The restaurant in the hotel has won multiple awards in the last few years.
With gardens and an exterior that complement the Georgian-style interior, the Loch Ness Country House Hotel is certain to create an unforgettable experience. The staff are very friendly, helpful and genuine. The two-course lunch is highly recommended, and booking is essential. Afternoon tea and private dining are also available.