The First Look…
- Hike from Kintail to Loch Ness
- 44 miles
- 3-5 days
- Moderate difficulty
- best done May-Septmeber
What?
The Affric Kintail way is one of Scotland’s newest long distance paths. At 44 miles long, it connects the town of Morvich on the northeast coast, to Drumnadrochit on the shores of Loch Ness. Backpackers can expect to experience the rugged landscape of Kintail, including unparalleled views of the Five Sisters (a group of mountains that form a five mile long ridge), remote lochs and pinewoods in Glen Affric (long considered the most beautiful glen in Scotland), remote, historical drove roads, and beautiful forest outside of Loch Ness.
Why?
Walking is a historic past time in Scotland, and the Affric Kintail Way is the perfect trail to dip your feet in. Short enough to be done over a long weekend but remote enough to get you far from town, the Affric Kintail Way is one of my favorite long distance walks. Though only 44 miles, the trail passes through numerous ecosystems, including some of the most beautiful in the country. The Kintail provides you with rugged, severe beauty, while Glen Affric lulls you with tall forests and beautiful lochs. With plenty of options for side trips both along the way and at either end, there’s also the option to make this jaunt into something truly epic.
When?
While reasonably done in any season by the experienced backpacker, the Affric Kintail Way is best enjoyed May through September. Whatever your start, allot at least three days for the trail, though five allows for much more time to enjoy the side trips, history, and nature throughout the walk.
How?
Where to Start: Affric Kintail way can be started at either Morvich or Drumnadrochit, both reasonably well serviced by public buses. Morvich can be found on the CityLink between Inverness and Skye and Glasgow and Skye, and Drumnadrochit is very well serviced from both Fort William and Inverness.
What to Bring: Waterproof pants and a rain jacket are top priority given the fickle weather in Scotland. Hiking boots can be forgone for trail runners if you prefer; much of the walking is on drove roads or smooth paths, though you may enjoy the waterproofing of a boot. Enough food for 3-5 days, and a water filter, though the water in Scotland is generally safe to drink, as long as there isn’t a sheep carcass floating in it. Remember that you will be passing through some of the more remote regions of the Highlands, and help and comfort could be far away. Pack plenty of warm clothing and prepare for the worst.
As far as tents, a sturdy, three-season tent will do fine. I favor a full tent with a bathtub floor over a shelter, to keep out the midges and near constant wet. My favorites for Scotland, Alaska, and anywhere else where the weather is generally bad are TarpTents.
Maps can be found through Ordinance Survey, though if you’re looking for something sturdy and weatherproof, Harvey Maps makes a lovely one.
Where to Sleep: Scotland is one of the few countries with an Outdoor Access Law, which essentially allows anybody to recreate on any land as long as they respect both the land and the landowners. As such, wild camping is immensely popular and you won’t find established campsites on the Affric Kintail Way. You’re free to pitch your tent anywhere, within reason. Durable surfaces are preferred, and take care to stay at least 200 feet back from water sources. Practice Leave No Trace, and make sure to leave your camp area better than you found it. Familiarize yourself with the Outdoor Access Law before you go.
Glen Affric is also home to Scotland’s most remote hostel, the Glen Affric Youth Hostel. This is well worth a stop, either to spend the night or just to pop in and say hello. Nestled in the hills, the hostel features a rustic kitchen, two private rooms, and shared accommodation. When I was there in 2017, you were also able to pitch your tent for a small fee, and use the facilities. One of the highlights of my trip, the youth hostel is a perfect place to snuggle in with some tea and a good book, or venture off into the mountains nearby to bag some Munros. Make sure to pre-book if you want a room, and bring your own food!
Want More?
If 44 miles isn’t quite enough for you, the Affric Kintail Way is perfectly positioned to connect to other long distance walks. From the Morvich end, the Cape Wrath Trail winds north, while the Skye Trail starts just over the water on the Isle of Skye. From Drumnadrochit, it’s easy to connect into the Great Glen Way, which affords you access to most of the other long distance walks in Scotland.
If castles are your thing, check out Eilean Donan Castle outside of Morvich. Drumnadrochit is also very close to Urquhart Castle, and the town itself offers much in the way of activity, both on Loch Ness and off.
More Information
If you’d like more on the trail (or others like it), Walk Highlands has all your needs. The Affric Kintail Way also has it’s very own website! Enjoy.
Chelsey Cook 