Caledonian Canal

Linking Scotland’s east and west coasts through Inverness, the Caledonian Canal is a 19th-century engineering landmark designed by Thomas Telford. Stretching 60 miles via natural lochs and man-made cuts, it includes the dramatic staircase locks at Fort Augustus and the sea lock at Clachnaharry. Visitors come for waterside walks, cycling, boat trips, and wildlife spotting, with views across Loch Ness and the Great Glen. The towpaths are flat and accessible, and heritage centers explain the canal’s history. It’s a worthwhile stop for engineering enthusiasts, leisurely explorers, and anyone seeking scenic, low-key outdoor time near Inverness.