Loch Ness (Scottish Gaelic: Loch Nis) is a large, eep, freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands (57°18′N, 4°27′W) extending for approximately 37 km (23 miles) southwest of Inverness. Its surface is 15.8 meters (52 feet) above sea level. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster, also known as "Nessie".