Caledonian Canal, Inverness

The Caledonian Canal, an engineering marvel of the early 19th century, stretches 60 miles (100 kilometers) across the stunning Scottish Highlands, linking the east coast at Inverness to the west coast at Corpach, near Fort William. Designed by renowned Scottish civil engineer Thomas Telford, the canal was completed in 1822 after nearly two decades of construction. Initially conceived to mitigate the perilous maritime route around Scotland’s rugged coastline, the canal now offers a tranquil and scenic journey through the Great Glen, a geological fault running across the Highlands.

Of its total length, only 22 miles are man-made, with the remaining 38 miles formed by four interconnected lochs: Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich, and Loch Lochy. The canal rises to an impressive 106 feet (32 meters) above sea level, facilitated by 29 locks, including the famous Neptune's Staircase-a series of eight locks near Fort William that elevate vessels by 70 feet throughout 500 yards. This intricate ladder of locks is one of the canal's most remarkable sights and a testament to the ingenuity of its design.

Visitors can explore the canal in numerous ways, whether by sailing, cycling, walking, or even fishing along its serene towpaths. Key points of interest include the Muirtown Locks near Inverness, the Fort Augustus Locks, which connect to the iconic Loch Ness, and Neptune's Staircase at Corpach, offering breathtaking views of Ben Nevis.

Whether you’re seeking a leisurely afternoon by the water or a deeper dive into its history at the Caledonian Canal Heritage Centre in Fort Augustus, this waterway offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historic intrigue, and engineering brilliance. For those craving an adventure, the Great Glen Way follows the canal’s route, offering a 73-mile journey from Fort William to Inverness through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes.