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Affric Kintail Way

4 stages . 5 nights . Scottish Highlands

Self-guided trekking holiday

Key Information

  • Grade: Red
  • Start: Drumnadrochit near Inverness
  • End: Morvich in Kintail
  • Season dates: We're not curently open for bookings
  • Length: 4 days' trekking
  • Typical walk: 18km, 415m ascent
  • Total distance: 71km or 44 miles
  • Highest altitude: 345m
  • Group size: 2 or more trekkers
From GBP 690 per person
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Walk the length of one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. The Affric Kintail Way is a relatively short, and relatively new, trail from one side of Scotland to the other. Pass through ancient Caledonian pinewoods around Loch Affric to the towering mountains of Kintail on the West Coast. Follow ancient drover routes, pass historical settlements and find a warm welcome and comradeship at the remote Glen Affric Youth Hostel.

Now considered one of Scotland’s finest multi-day walks, the Affric Kintail Way is still somewhat of an insider tip. Officially opened in 2015, the 4-stage trek crosses from Drumnadrochit, by famous Loch Ness, to Kintail where it ends near Loch Duich on the water front. The 44 miles in between are packed with some of the most stunning and remote scenery the Highlands have to offer to those on a trail. At this level of remoteness we should keep our eyes open for ospreys, otters and red deer.

Enjoy Scottish hospitality in B&Bs and inns along the way, plus the highlight of the remote Glen Affric Youth Hostel. This friendly eco-hostel is only reached on foot or by mountain bike and is a goal of walkers and Munro-baggers. The hostel closes for the season at the end start of September, so we unfortunately cannot book trips beyond the 3rd.

As a trail of 4 days and 5 nights, we plan it all for you and give you our detailed routecards, maps and lots of local information. Walk at your own pace on a self-guided trip, or please email us for details of walking with a leader.
Alternative trip options
Prefer a different trip? Why not try one of these:
 West Highland Way – 7 stages, 8 nights
 Hebridean Way – 12 stages, 13 nights
 Kerry Way – 9 stages, 10 nights

Map

Trip Information

Slide 1
Arrival day: Arrive in Drumnadrochit
Arrive from either the Inverness or Fort William directions. Drumnadrochit is a small, bustling village a short walk from the shore of Loch Ness. If you’ve got time, why not take a look at the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition (very popular with Nessie hunters!) or famous Urquhart Castle?
B&B in Drumnadrochit (breakfast)
Slide 1
Stage 1: Drumnadrochit to Cannich
Blue 3 (grade) 23.8km with 430m ascent, 395m descent
Leaving behind the village of Drumnadrochit, your first walking day begins with a climb through Craigmonie woods. Much of the forest has been cleared, so there are plenty of views into and across Glen Urquhart, and the miles fly by. Passing the hamlet of Shenval, you’ll soon reach Corrimony and its 4,000-year-old Chambered Cairn – a worthwhile detour and a fascinating sight. Reach the quaint village of Cannich and its cafés and pub. This first stage is steady and is contained within the valley.
B&B in Cannich (breakfast)
Slide 1
Stage 2: Cannich to River Affric
Blue 3 (grade) 20.1km with 410m ascent, 225m descent
Leaving Cannich today, to break into Glen Affric proper, an undulating forestry track takes you to Dog Falls. Take some time to explore the waterfall and its dramatic rocky gorge. As you continue, now on the southern shore of Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhoin, the full beauty of Glen Affric and its Caledonian pine and birchwoods begin to unfold. Take a break on the lochside and watch out for birds and other wildlife! At the end of the day, cross the river Affric to reach the River Affric car park. As there is no accommodation here we take a taxi back for a second night in Cannich.
B&B in Cannich (breakfast)
Slide 1
Stage 3: River Affric to Alltbeithe
Blue 2 (grade) 13.8km with 230m ascent, 210m descent
Now we explore the Highlands! A taxi brings you back to the roadhead in Glen Affric. Today is a relatively short day on easy tracks, perfect to fully immerse yourself in some of Scotland’s finest scenery. A mile into your walk watch out for Affric Lodge – a veritable palace, surrounded by some of the highest mountains in the glen, such as Sgurr na Lapaich. Follow the path along Loch Affric until you reach the old settlement at Athnamulloch. After crossing the river Affric, continue west. A wind turbine in the distance is the first sign you’re approaching Glen Affic Youth Hostel, where a warm welcome awaits.
Glen Affric Youth Hostel (please bring your own breakfast and dinner)
Slide 1
Stage 4: Alltbeithe to Morvich
Red 3 (grade) 16.4km with 130m ascent, 395m descent
The final stage awaits with grand mountain scenery and a wonderfully remote and wild feeling. After passing lonely Camban Bothy, cross the watershed at Cnoc Biodag. Walking under the impressive shadow of Beinn Fhada on one side and the Five Sisters of Kintail on the other side, your journey takes you down the length of Gleann Lichd to finally reach your journey’s end at Morvich. Congratulations on completing the Affric Kintail Way!
B&B in Morvich (breakfast)
Slide 1
Departure day: Depart from Morvich
Enjoy your last breakfast on the shores of Loch Duich before departing from the trip. Take the Citylink bus back to Inverness, Fort William or Glasgow, or onwards to the Isle of Skye if time allows.