The A82 is a popular route because of the fact that it is the road that leads to Loch Ness. Would-be monster hunters and tourists keep piling into the loch in hopes of having that elusive Nessie sighting. Well, a Nessie sighting would be as rare as that of the Unicorn, but luckily, the A82 has more up its kerbs than just a chance to get a glimpse of the mythical beast.
The A82 starts from Glasgow and ends in Inverness where the famous Loch Ness is located. The route is 167 miles long from end to end. It skirts through 10 lochs in the Scottish Highlands. The A82 is the second longest primary A-road in all of Scotland. Unlike other roads featured on this journal which are back country roads, this one has a huge economic significance to the towns along the route. It links communities as well as side roads to this central artery which bring commerce and tourism to the area.
The main attraction of the route is the scenic drive through the lochs. At the beginning of the route is Loch Lomond where the largest freshwater island called Inchmurrin is situated. Everything along the route is big as it is also home to the highest peak in the British Isles in the Ben Nevis Mountain. Along the route, you will pass by Rannoch Moor along the Loch Rannoch which is known for its scenery and wildlife.
The drive along the A82 is leisurely at best, as there is a current speed limit of 40mph. Since the A82 is a main artery through the western highlands, drivers would be navigating around lorries and RVs. The fun in driving would be the bends and curves that riddle the route. The section from Tarbet to Tyndrum is notorious for being the most dangerous part of the journey and it is best to keep within the speed limit.
The road opens up once you are past Tyndrum where there are clear stretches where you can open up the throttle a bit. The drive through the mountains is both enjoyable and tricky. The bends and corners are tight and should be approached with caution.
At the end of the A82 would be the famed Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. The castle was built in the 13th century and home to the Clan Grant. The castle overlooks Loch Ness and should be a good vantage point to get a glimpse of Nessie is you are lucky. If you fancy a bit of a drink, the A82 has some of the oldest and most famous distilleries in Scotland. Just remember to never drink and drive.
It would be best to plan ahead before tackling the A82. The road conditions can be sometimes an issue because of the weather around the area. Best advice is to take your time along the route and abide by the speed limit. There are a lot of scenic views in and around the A82 so bring a camera and take on the sights and sounds of the highlands. Drive safe and have fun!
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