Fort Augustus is the largest of the villages on Loch Ness. Significantly, it is at Fort Augustus that the Caledonian Canal rises through several picturesque locks to continue southward on its way to the Atlantic Ocean near Fort William. Today several commercial ships still use the canal, but the majority are pleasure cruisers and light yachts.Fort Augustus is an exceedling pretty village, always a contender and often a winner in the 'Villages in Bloom' nationwide competition. There are flowers everywhere in Summertime, in tubs, baskets and neatly laid out beds.Special items to look out for are the wonderful examples of topiary, such as this rendition of the Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie as she is known, complete with offspring.There is always plenty to do and see in Fort Augustus, cafes, restaurants, gift shops and even historical exhibitions. Whiling the time away over a pint of Scottish beer is a fine way to spend an evening beside the canal and for the more energetic, there is a great golf course in the village as well as superb walks beside the canal and Loch Ness.