Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition follows Loch Ness Monster into self-isolation
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LOCH Ness Centre and Exhibition in Drumnadrochit has followed in the footsteps of its resident monster and gone into temporary self-isolation.
The venue closed to the public last Friday in order to comply with government advice on social distancing and to protect the health of staff and visitors.
“Apart from annually on Christmas Day, this is the first time that we have had to shut our doors since we opened 40 years ago,” co-owner David Bremner said.
“It’s a drastic step, but one that must be taken to deal with this unprecedented threat to our global health. If Nessie can avoid social contact for 15 centuries, I am sure we can manage a few weeks.”
Consistently among the top 10 privately owned attractions in Scotland, visitor numbers had been in line with previous seasons, with no noticeable significant downturn in footfall before the closure.
Mr Bremner attributes that in part to Scotland not having any confirmed coronavirus cases until the first week of March, but believes the mistaken view that rural areas provided a safe haven for self-isolation might have been another factor.
“Rural communities need to protect themselves as much as their urban counterparts and we must all follow government guidelines to reduce our contacts and stay home wherever possible,” he added.
“In time, we will be able to reopen and the wider society will likely appreciate the great outdoors more than ever.
"Yes, there will undoubtedly be a period of time before any kind of ‘normality’ resumes, but Scotland, in particular Loch Ness and the Highlands, will be as beautiful as it always was. Going to Scotland and not visiting Loch Ness is like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower and we are looking forward to welcoming guests for many decades to come.
"The legend of Nessie will live on.”
