Scotland's 'best story' to be unveiled at revamped Loch Ness Centre
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A new visitor experience retelling the legend alongside the real stories of Loch Ness will be unveiled next month.
It follows a £1.5 million revamp of the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit by Continuum Attractions which acquired the attraction earlier this year.
It will officially open its doors on Saturday June 10 when visitors will be able to walk through 500 million years of history to explore the myths and examine the scientific research surrounding the monster through immersive tours.
Trips will also be available aboard the attraction’s famous research vessel, Deepscan.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the famous sighting of Nessie by Aldie Mackay which was first reported by the Inverness Courier – establishing Loch Ness and the 'Monster' as a global phenomenon.
The ensuing media frenzy will be one of the stories celebrated as part of the new one-hour experience housed in the old Drumnadrochit Hotel where Aldie Mackay was the manageress.
Although her story has been documented in newspapers and books, it is believed this will be the first time it has been re-enacted.
It is one of seven stories told in different ways at the centre.
They will celebrate This Majestic Place, Scottish Myths and Legends and the scientific search for the Truth.
Juliana Delaney, chief executive of Continuum, said the attraction is looking forward to welcoming guests back.
"We now present the story of this global phenomenon in a modern and engaging way," she said.
"We appreciate we are only guardians of this legend as many Nessie enthusiasts are truly passionate about this place and its history.
"We wanted to involve them and the community to get it right for the locals and tourists alike.
"At Continuum, we are passionate about finding great stories in great locations – and this really is Scotland’s best story."
The company previously helped transform the award-winning Mary King’s Close in Edinburgh into a five-star experience
It also works with ITV to provide Coronation Street and Emmerdale tours.
Visitors to the Loch Ness Centre will become part of the ongoing Nessie quest with regular updates on the latest news, developments and sightings.
They will also be able to hear scientific debate on the Nessie phenomenon which has sparked over 1000 eyewitness accounts and recorded sightings, alongside unexplained evidence.
The attraction is investing in support for Loch Ness Exploration teams to help ensure the search continues for a new generation.
Voyage seekers can also explore the depths of the world-famous loch with Deepscan captain, Alistair Matheson, the skipper for the Loch Ness Project.
The vessel was named after the famous expedition carried out on the loch in 1987.
The one-of-a-kind cruise takes up to 12 guests on a journey taking in sights such as Urquhart Castle.
They can also search the depths of the loch using specialist sonar equipment.
