Top Loch Ness Classes: Explore Local Arts & Skills

Looking for a unique adventure when you head to Loch Ness? Well outside monster hunting, why not consider swapping the usual tourist trails for something far more personal? That’s where local classes and workshops come into play. You see, they can really connect you with the heart of this pretty awesome Scottish area. These classes give you the opportunity to learn traditional skills, discover hidden talents, meet local people, and generally create some brilliant memories. Here, we are going to check out five top classes and workshops around Loch Ness, which gives everyone an unforgettable Highland experience.

1. Highland Photography Workshop

Alright, so you’ve got a camera, that’s a start, but do you want to take photos which really show what the Highlands is like? That is almost where a Highland Photography Workshop is brilliant. This isn’t your usual, very boring photography class; it’s an outdoor adventure that’s been planned to explore the dramatic landscape of Loch Ness. Skilled local photographers can guide you through the best spots, which tend to be remote and beautiful, teaching you ways to capture scenery such as brooding mountains to calm loch waters.

Usually, sessions cover techniques like composition, how you use light, how shutter speed and aperture can improve photos and all kinds of stuff. Think of the scene; early morning mists above the loch or sunsets casting shadows over Urquhart Castle; just think, you could actually take postcard-worthy shots. Most workshops are ideal for various levels, whether you’re a beginner who tends to use their phone or even someone a bit better who wants to fine-tune their abilities. Not only do you gain photography skills, but you also experience Loch Ness in a unique, very visual way.

2. Scottish Highland Cooking Class

Does getting in the kitchen sound like fun? If so, then it could be fun taking part in a Scottish Highland Cooking Class. Scottish food tends to have a bit of a bad reputation; it’s almost like people imagine it’s only haggis and deep-fried Mars bars. What it is though is a hearty cuisine with some fresh local stuff. These cooking classes often focus on what ingredients are available seasonally. So you might find yourself prepping wild salmon, venison or foraged berries. That would all depend on when you take the class. A skilled chef could show you how to cook Cullen skink (smoked fish soup), or clootie dumpling (a type of steamed pudding) properly, very proper techniques that have passed down generations.

Is that okay? Yes, very definitely, usually the very best thing happens in the eating; after all the cooking there tends to be a communal meal where everyone can eat the food they’ve just prepared. Classes sometimes take place in local farmhouses or pretty estate kitchens. That is usually adding something special to the occasion. Scottish Highland cooking is a nice thing to get involved in when you’re at Loch Ness. After all, you learn some dishes and some things about Scottish culture that a lot of visitors will not get near.

3. Nessie Monster Hunting Workshop

You simply can’t go to Loch Ness and maybe not even entertain the idea that you are off hunting for the legendary monster. It tends to be something tourists go in for. However, why not do a tour? Some ‘Nessie Monster Hunting Workshops’ may be a bit cheesy, I accept, they do mix the folklore and a bit of scientific theory with a touch of fun.. Usually guides take tour groups to key viewing places, such as the ruins of Urquhart Castle. That could almost have you scanning the loch for any sign of the monster, explaining a bit about the area’s history and past sightings.

Does that tend to sound good? Yes. very much so. With specialist gear like sonar or underwater cameras involved on some tours; very rarely you’ll see something but more often, you’re going to enjoy stories, history and the glorious scenery of Loch Ness. Okay, very, very few people have proof, but still, taking part is a talking point to treasure. These sessions usually are better suited for kids, those who love folklore, and who likes the thrill of the mystery.

4. Traditional Scottish Crafts

If you really fancy something proper hands-on, many workshops around the Loch Ness area may involve traditional Scottish crafts. You get involved in things that folk around there have tended to do for ages. Some common workshops cover stuff such as weaving, maybe you try using a loom and creating your very own tartan pattern. Others cover working with wool; using wool from local sheep. So learn how to felt it to make pretty artwork or little useful things.

Is that okay? It could be okay, yes! Then there’s stuff like woodwork, it involves carving something out of wood with conventional tools. Or, those with a connection to Celtic traditions usually include Celtic knot-making workshops. In that event, an instructor can teach you how to produce these beautiful interwoven designs on wood or on paper. Very usually a session like this offers a look into Scottish traditions, giving everyone the skills so they make their own souvenir.

5. Whisky Tasting and Distillery Tour

Now that’s the adult’s one. Of course no visit around these parts would basically be worth it if you never understood much more about Scottish whisky. Scotland is generally famed for whisky. Loads of distilleries are on the Highland Whisky Trail in fact and, around Loch Ness there are tours and guided tasting sessions to show you the complex whisky is. Usually, that could almost mean visiting the distillery. Guides are walking you through stuff to do with mashing malts, and distillation in copper stills. That sort of thing.

After the tours, the really amazing bits tend to be the tastings. Then experts might lead you through the tastes of different whiskies, explaining how location, and maturing in casks gives the whisky different characters. Tasting whisky this way does not only give you information but also shows how important whisky is to Scottish culture and tradition.