Restoration work has started at the site of a new multimillion-pound visitor destination on the banks of Loch Ness in Scotland.
Housed within the former Dochgarroch village hall, the new destination is due to open its doors in May 2019 and expects to become a beacon of Highland hospitality.
Once complete, the development, which overlooks the Caledonian Canal and Dochgarroch Locks, will feature a café, visitor centre and craft shop showcasing the best of local produce from the finest Highland suppliers.
The new attraction
The coming months will see the existing Dochgarroch Hall completely refurbished, together with a new extension creating a bespoke facility for visitors.
Once complete, the development will include a ticket reception and entrance hall, retail outlet, a 90-seat café built around a new central courtyard, and external terrace overlooking the Caledonian Canal towpath and quayside.
Behind the project is Freda Newton MBE, managing director of Loch Ness by Jacobite, a loch cruise company. She commented: “Our new visitor experience will be a place for visitors and locals alike to gather, share stories, and learn about Loch Ness and the historic Dochfour Estate.
“Visitors will experience a new retail offer showcasing the best of what Scotland has to offer within a unique and eclectic environment.
“We’re extremely passionate about promoting incredible local produce, committed local suppliers and the Highland way of life to all visitors, made all the more fitting by the building itself which has been a community hub for almost a hundred years.”
More details are to be announced in due course.
About Loch Ness by Jacobite
Loch Ness by Jacobite is a cruise and tours company which allows visitors to explore Loch Ness to its full.
Different tours are available of select dates, an example of which is Temptation, a coach and cruise tour which begins in Inverness City, cruises the Loch and visits Urquhart Castle.
The site itself does not yet have a website, but groups can visit the Loch Ness by Jacobite website for details on existing experiences, cruises and tours.
