Laggan RETURN 7-Night Itinerary

Laggan > Invergarry

5pm-6pm

Approx. 1 hr | 1 lock | 1 swing bridge

Make your way to your first overnight mooring near Invergarry Castle, just a short walk from the castle ruins. This gentle stretch of canal is ideal for getting into the rhythm of your cruise. Cruise down tree-lined Laggan Avenue, pass into the calm waters of Loch Oich, and continue along the waterway until your mooring appears on the left, just after you catch sight of the castle. With only one lock and one swing bridge along the way, it’s a relaxed and scenic introduction to your holiday. Moor up and settle in for your first night on board at this peaceful and picturesque spot.

• Lock: Laggan locks
• Swing bridge: Laggan Swing Bridge

The above lock and swing bridge closes at 5:30pm.

*Please note: If you’re running short on time and won’t make it all the way to Invergarry before dark, simply moor up just before or after the Laggan Swing Bridge (the first swing bridge along your route) for free overnight mooring.

Dinner at Invergarry Hotel, Invergarry

7pm-9pm

Just a 20-minute walk from the mooring, the Invergarry Castle Hotel offers a beautiful dining experience in a multi award-winning Highland country inn. Their menu features rustic Highland dishes, all thoughtfully prepared with ingredients sourced from local suppliers. Bookings are essential and best to make ahead of time: Invergarry Hotel | +44 1809 501 206

If you can’t get a spot at the Invergarry Castle Hotel, not to worry! The Glengarry Castle Hotel is another fantastic option nearby: Glengarry Castle Hotel | +44 1809 501 254

Both restaurants offer a truly special dining experience, so be sure to book ahead of time for either.

Invergarry > Fort Augustus

9am-11am

Approx. 2 hrs | 3 locks | 1 swing bridge

It’s time to make your way into Fort Augustus, known for its lock staircase, charming village atmosphere, and stunning views over Loch Ness. Along the way you’ll pass through Aberchalder Swing Bridge and three locks, including the impressive Fort Augustus Lock Flight (a highlight of the Caledonian Canal). The Fort Augustus Lock Flight takes around 1 to 1,5 hours to navigate, so be sure to allow plenty of time if you plan to pass through before lunch.

There are plenty of moorings available after the lock flight up ahead on the left.

• Swing bridge: Aberchalder Swing Bridge
• Lock: Cullochy Lock
• Lock: Kytra Lock
• Lock: Fort Augustus Lock Flight
  

Lunch at The Lock Inn, Fort Augustus

1pm-2:30pm

Take a stroll to The Lock Inn, a cosy Highland pub perfectly positioned on the banks of the canal in Fort Augustus. Serving locally sourced food daily, the inn offers a relaxed atmosphere in the main bar, with an upstairs restaurant and outdoor seating overlooking the Fort Augustus Lock Flight. Tuck into favourites like fish & chips, smoked haddock, or a hearty meat pie, and don’t miss the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

For bookings: +44 1320 366 302 | the-lockinn.co.uk

For another great option, try The Bothy Restaurant and Bar. Conveniently located right beside the locks, it’s open throughout the day and serves a variety of light snacks alongside an excellent selection of real ales and malt whiskies.

Explore Fort Augustus

2:30pm-7pm

Fort Augustus is a charming village at the heart of the Great Glen, Scotland’s stunning natural corridor stretching from coast to coast. Begin your visit at the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre, where you’ll find engaging displays, a thoughtfully curated gift shop, and a café serving homemade Scottish dishes, Black Isle Dairy ice cream, and fresh coffee.

From there, enjoy a peaceful walk along the canal towpath to Kytra Lock. The broad, well-maintained path runs between the Caledonian Canal and the River Oich, offering lovely views along the way. It’s an easy, accessible walk (ideal for buggies and wheelchairs) with a return time of around 1,5 to 2 hours.

Back in the village, explore a handful of inviting craft shops, including The Millshop, a traditional woollen mill, and Iceberg Glass, a glass-blowing studio. Or rent a bike from Morag’s Lodge to explore the area on two wheels: +44 1320 366 289 | info@moragslodge.com

Don’t forget to pick up a few essentials at the SPAR in the Jet Great Glen Trading Centre for tomorrow’s on-board breakfast and lunch.

Dinner at Station Road at the Lovat Hotel, Fort Augustus

7pm-9pm

Book a table at Station Road, the award-winning restaurant at The Lovat Hotel. Overlooking the canal and just a short walk from the locks, this elegant spot offers a refined, seasonal menu that celebrates the flavours of the Highlands. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced produce, cooked with passion and flair, turning fresh ingredients into beautifully presented dishes.

For bookings and a look at their special menus: Station Road Restaurant | +44 1456 459 250

Prefer something more relaxed? The pizzas at Beaufort House are a local favourite – freshly made, full of flavour, and ideal for a cosy, casual evening.

Make a booking: +44 1320 366 845 | stay@beauforthouselochness.com

Fort Augustus > Drumnadrochit

8am-11am

Approx. 3 hrs

Cruise north toward Drumnadrochit on an easy four-hour stretch with no locks or swing bridges to navigate, just wide-open water and beautiful Highland scenery. Moor at Urquhart Bay Harbour, a peaceful spot that makes a great base for exploring the area. From the harbour, it’s about a 20-minute walk into the village of Drumnadrochit.

Explore Drumnadrochit

11am-1pm

Before a picnic lunch on board, take time to visit Urquhart Castle – which stands in a dramatic position on a rocky headland jutting into Loch Ness. The castle has witnessed centuries of Highland history, from the peaceful arrival of St Columba around AD 580 to far more turbulent times. It was seized by the English in 1296 and later became a stronghold of the MacDonalds, Lords of the Isles, who ruled the glen with force throughout the later Middle Ages.

Today, Urquhart Castle offers a memorable visitor experience. Enjoy sweeping views over Loch Ness, explore the castle ruins, and stop by the café or gift shop featuring locally made crafts. The visitor centre includes a film presentation, informative displays, and free access to the tearoom and other facilities. The easiest way to reach the castle from Urquhart Bay Harbour is by taxi, and it’s well worth the short 7-minute ride there and back. We recommend Loch Ness Hub & Travel Co.: +44 1456 450 617

Drumnadrochit>Inverness

2:30pm-5pm

Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins | 1 lock | 2 swing bridges

Your cruise from Drumnadrochit to Inverness is a relaxed and scenic journey, taking around 2,5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through one lock and one swing bridge before reaching your mooring. Once in Inverness, it’s best to moor just after the Torvean Swing Bridge. This is a convenient location for stepping ashore and getting ready to enjoy a spectacular evening in the city.

• Lock: Dochgarroch Locks
• Swing bridge: Torvean Swing Bridge

The above lock and swing bridges close at 5:30pm.

Explore Inverness

5pm-7pm

Start your Inverness evening with a relaxed stroll from Torvean Swing Bridge, where your boat is moored. Follow the riverbank path toward the Ness Islands, a peaceful green space right in the city. Cross one of the charming old footbridges and enjoy a wander through the trees, with the River Ness flowing gently around you. From there, head north along Ness Walk, passing Inverness Cathedral on your way up to the castle viewpoint. The castle isn’t open to visitors, but the views are fantastic and it’s a great spot to stop by the statue of Flora Macdonald. If you have a little extra time, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery is just around the corner and gives a fun glimpse into Highland history. Then make your way along the river toward the centre of town, where The Mustard Seed is waiting to welcome you for a delicious dinner with a view.

To get back to your boat by taxi, we recommend City Taxis: +44 1463 222 555 or Highland Taxis: +44 1463 222 222

Dinner at The Mustard Seed, Inverness

7pm-9pm

The Mustard Seed is one of Inverness’s most loved restaurants, set in a beautifully converted church right on the banks of the River Ness. Its unique setting, with soaring ceilings and original features, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for a relaxed evening meal. The menu focuses on fresh, seasonal Scottish ingredients, thoughtfully prepared and served with care. It’s a memorable dining experience that combines Highland charm with quality cooking.

For bookings: mustardseedrestaurant.co.uk | +44 1463 220 220

For a different style just across the river, Rocpool Restaurant offers a more contemporary setting with bold colours, modern design, and a lively brasserie feel.

For bookings: Rocpool Restaurant | +44 1463 717 274

Inverness >Fort Augustus

7am-1pm

Approx. 6 hrs | 1 lock | 1 swing bridge

To make the most of your experience on the Caledonian Canal, we recommend setting aside a full day to cruise back in the direction of the Laggan base, ensuring you have enough time left to enjoy a full day visit to Fort William. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Fort Augustus lock flight once again, this time with a better idea of what to expect and a chance to put your skills to the test. Stop for a quick lunch in Fort Augustus before continuing your cruise toward Well of the Seven Heads, where you can settle in for the evening.

• Swing bridge: Torvean Swing Bridge
• Lock: Dochgarroch Locks
  
  
  
  

Lunch at DelightfulNess, Fort Augustus

1pm-2pm

Before making your way through the Fort Augustus Lock Flight, moor up and take a short stroll across the bridge to DelightfulNess, a local favourite known for its generously filled baguettes. Be sure to grab your lunch to go (and a simple supper if your groceries have run low), so you’re back on board and ready to begin navigating the lock flight by 2pm. You’ll be glad you stopped at this little gem.

Fort Augustus > Well of the Seven Heads

2pm-5:30pm

Approx. 2 hrs | 3 locks

Enjoy the waterway from a new perspective as you cruise back down the canal toward the Well of the Seven Heads monument, where your mooring awaits just out front. If you don’t make it quite that far, consider stopping at Aberchalder instead, just beyond the Aberchalder Swing Bridge at the peaceful boater’s pontoon. Either option offers a quiet and scenic spot to end your day on the water.

• Lock: Fort Augustus Locks
• Lock: Kytra Lock
• Lock: Cullochy Lock
  
  
  
  

Visit the Well of the Seven Heads Monument

5:30pm-6:30pm

Step ashore to discover one of the Caledonian Canal’s more curious landmarks: Well of the Seven Heads. This dramatic monument, tucked beside Loch Oich, tells a tale of murder, clan justice, and Highland revenge. While the well itself may not be especially picturesque, the legend surrounding it reflects ancient Highland beliefs about honour, water, and the power of the human head. Just steps from the mooring, it’s a fascinating stop with a story you won’t soon forget.

Dinner on board

7pm-9pm

Enjoy a cosy dinner on board. With a fully equipped kitchen at your fingertips, the possibilities are endless. Unpack the groceries you picked up in Fort Augustus and treat yourself to your very own canal-side dinner party: relaxed, scenic, and all yours to enjoy.

Well of the Seven Heads > Banavie

8am-1pm

Approx. 5 hrs | 1 lock | 3 swing bridges

Enjoy an early start as you begin cruising toward Banavie, aiming to arrive in time for lunch. Give a wave to the Le Boat team as you pass the Laggan base and make your way through the Laggan Locks. From there, continue along the scenic canal toward Gairlochy Swing Bridge, followed by Moy Swing Bridge, before reaching the Banavie mooring just below Neptune’s Staircase. This stretch takes approximately five hours, offering a relaxed morning on the water with beautiful Highland views throughout.

• Swing bridge: Laggan Swing Bridge
• Lock: Laggan Locks
• Swing bridge: Gairlochy Swing Bridge
• Swing bridge: Moy Swing Bridge
  

Explore Banavie

3pm-7pm

After lunch, stretch your legs with a wander around Banavie, starting with a visit to Neptune’s Staircase. This remarkable series of eight canal locks is the longest staircase lock in Britain and a brilliant spot to watch boats rising and descending against a backdrop of mountain views. It’s a gentle and fascinating walk along the towpath, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Just a 30-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride from the locks, visit Ben Nevis Distillery, one of Scotland’s oldest. You can explore the visitor centre, browse the shop, or opt for a whisky tasting to round off your afternoon with a little Highland spirit.

For bookings: bennevisdistillery.com | tours@bennevisdistillery.com | +44 1397 700 200

Dinner at The Moorings Bistro, Banavie

7pm-9pm

The Moorings Hotel Bistro offers a warm Highland welcome and a relaxed setting for dinner. Overlooking Neptune’s Staircase and Ben Nevis, it’s a lovely spot to unwind while watching boats pass through the locks. The bistro serves freshly prepared, home-cooked dishes daily, with a seasonal menu that highlights local and Scottish ingredients. Favourites include haddock and chips, steak and ale pie, and hearty homemade curries. A cosy lounge bar and outdoor deck add to the inviting atmosphere.

For bookings: Moorings Hotel | +44 1397 772 797

Banavie > Fort William

9am-9:30am

Approx. 10-30 minutes

Depending on your plans for the day, decide what time you’ll need to leave Banavie to arrive in Fort William with time to spare before your adventure begins.

Taxis are readily available and take just 6 minutes to reach the town centre, with fares typically between £10 and £13. We recommend Clansman Taxi: +44 1397 703 334

There’s also a local bus service from Banavie, with a morning departure near the Moorings Hotel at around 08:29 on weekdays. The journey takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes, and tickets cost between £1 and £3, making it a convenient and affordable option if it suits your schedule.

Download the transit app to book your bus tickets: Shiel Buses 43 bus – Scotland

Explore Fort William

10am-6pm

Ready for a full day of adventure in Fort William? Take your pick from three thrilling experiences:

Option 1: Take the Jacobite Steam Train – for Harry Potter fans!

Step aboard the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train for a nostalgic journey through the West Highlands. Departing from Fort William at 10am, this 84-mile round trip is widely regarded as one of the greatest rail journeys in the world. You’ll cross the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct (instantly recognisable from the Harry Potter films) on your way to the charming fishing port of Mallaig. There, enjoy a leisurely lunch of fresh fish and chips, explore local shops, or simply take in the sea air before the return journey. If the Jacobite is unavailable, the diesel ScotRail service offers the same route at a lower cost. Whichever you choose, expect dramatic landscapes and a day of unforgettable travel.
Book your tickets: westcoastrailways.co.uk

Option 2: Ride the Nevis Range Gondola to Aonach Mòr

Just 15 minutes by taxi from your mooring at Banavie, the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola is the only one of its kind in Britain. Glide smoothly up the north face of Aonach Mòr, the UK’s eighth-highest mountain, to 650 metres above sea level. At the top, take in spectacular Highland views, enjoy a short hill walk, or relax with a coffee at the Snowgoose café. Open daily from March onwards. Book your tickets: nevisrange.skiperformance.com

Option 3: Hike to the Summit of Ben Nevis

If you’re feeling energetic, why not hike to the summit of Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain? Begin your climb from the Glen Nevis Youth Hostel, where a clear, well-maintained trail leads you steadily upwards through changing Highland terrain. The 6.5 km path to the top involves a 1,300-metre ascent and takes around 4 hours each way (we suggest getting an early start if this is your plan for the day!). Along the way, enjoy sweeping views over glens and lochans, and feel the wild beauty of Scotland unfold around you. A true highland adventure for seasoned walkers prepared for a full day on the trail.

Lunch in Mallaig

12:30pm-1:30pm

If you’ve opted for the Jacobite train adventure, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch stop in Mallaig, a charming harbour town with a laid-back coastal feel. Known for its fresh seafood, Mallaig offers plenty of inviting spots to enjoy classic fish and chips or a casual lunch by the water.

If riding the Nevis Range Gondola to Aonach Mòr is more your speed, then then Snowgoose Café at the top serves a variety of lunch options, perfect for enjoying a bite with panoramic views of the Highlands.

And for those tackling the Ben Nevis summit, a packed lunch is your best bet. It’ll keep you fuelled on the trail and ready to take in the views from the top.

Dinner at Blas na Mara, Fort William

6pm-7pm

After a full day out, treat yourself to a relaxed dinner from Blas na Mara, Fort William’s go-to seafood shack. Known for serving the freshest local shellfish, this family-run spot is perfect for picking up a takeaway platter to enjoy back on board while the sun sets. Caught daily from nearby Loch Linnhe, the seafood here is as fresh as it gets! Think hand-selected langoustines, lobster, and more, cooked to order with care and sustainability in mind. Open Tuesday to Saturday, from 12pm to 7pm, be sure to arrive in time before they close.

Prefer a sit-down meal? Head to The Geographer, a friendly restaurant serving seafood and global flavours in a laid-back setting.

For bookings: www.geographerrestaurant.co.uk | +44 1234 567 890

Fort William > Banavie

7pm-7:30pm

Approx. 10 mins by taxi or 30 mins by bus

Return back to your floating home away from home by taxi (Clansman Taxi: +44 1397 703 334) or bus (book your bus tickets via the transit app).

Breakfast at The Moorings Bistro, Banavie

8am-9:30am

Enjoy your final morning in Banavie with a return stop to The Moorings Bistro for a scenic, hassle-free breakfast. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to this beautiful stretch of the canal, with the views of Neptune’s Staircase bathed in the soft morning light. Choose from a full or continental breakfast in the cosy bistro or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a coffee and canal view before setting off. It is best to make a booking the evening before to ensure a spot at breakfast.

For bookings: Moorings Hotel | +44 1397 772 797

Explore Banavie

9:30am-11:30pm

Take a 20-minute walk to the peaceful ruins of Old Inverlochy Castle, preserved by Historic Environment Scotland. Free to visit and full of quiet character, the site offers scenic views along the Great Glen Way and the historic Military Road. It’s a lovely place to pause and take in the Highland surroundings. Then pop into the Highland Soap Company Visitor Centre just across the way, where you can browse locally made soaps, skincare and homeware, or relax with a coffee and cake in their bright, airy café overlooking Ben Nevis.

Before setting out for the day, stop by the Co-op Food store in Caol on Kilmallie Road to pick up a few essentials, perfect for a relaxed lunch on board later in Gairlochy, along with any breakfast supplies you might need for the next morning.

Banavie > Gairlochy

11:30pm-1pm

Approx. 1 hr 15 mins | 2 swing bridges

Make your way towards Gairlochy and moor up for a peaceful lunch surrounded by stunning scenery. This quiet spot offers wide views across Loch Lochy and towards the peaks of Ben Nevis, making it a beautiful setting for a top-deck meal. On clear days, the Highland skyline is especially impressive.

• Swing bridge: Moy Swing Bridge
• Swing bridge: Gairlochy Swing Bridge

Gairlochy > Laggan

2:30pm-4:30pm

Approx. 2 hrs 15 mins

As you make your way toward the familiar surroundings of the Laggan base, take time to enjoy the changing light over the lochs and hills. This leg is all about soaking up the last moments of open water before returning to moor for the evening.

Explore Laggan

4:30pm-5:30pm

Spend your final evening enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Laggan. Take a stroll around the marina, explore the quiet local paths, or keep an eye out for wildlife like red deer, ospreys, or even a golden eagle if you’re lucky. Or just kick back on board with friends and family, swap highlights from the trip, and make the most of your last night on the water.