Question 1

How difficult is the Affric Kintail Way?

Accepted Answer

This trek is graded 3/5 on our trekking scale.
A good, challenging trek for the average walker. The terrain will include hills and rougher paths, and there will be some challenging longer days. It should be achievable for a person of good general fitness and determination.
With only 4 days walking this is at the shorter end of long-distance walking. We have broken the route into 4 sections, and although these include some remote walking, as well rough and boggy terrain, the daily mileage is relatively low for the grade.
If it wasn't for the remote nature of our overnight stay in the mountains and the extra kit that you will be required to carry for this, most days would be considered 2/5 on our scale.
You can read more about our grading system in our Trip Difficulty Guide.
To help you decide if this trip is right for you, please also refer to the itinerary, which includes daily distances, ascent, and detailed descriptions of the terrain.
Please note: all long-distance walking is challenging, especially if you are not used to walking/exercising every day. What makes a trek challenging is also personal, dependent on your strengths and preferences.

Question 2

What should I expect from the Affric Kintail Way?

Accepted Answer

The Affric Kintail Way is walked on a mix of mainly good forestry tracks and trails, with some rough and wetter sections to negotiate through the mountains.
We begin near Loch Ness with woodland walking the theme for the first two days. Things open out thereafter into one of Scotland's most stunning glens. You will see the fruits of the fantastic work of Trees for Life who have been striving to restore the native woodland of this area.  You can expect mountain views, changing light, and exposure to whatever weather is thrown at us.
We will be staying in the remote Glen Affric Youth Hostel which does add to the challenge. You will need to carry an overnight pack including a sleeping bag and your food for two days (2x lunch, 1x breakfast & 1x dinner).  However, this is often the highlight of the trip, even for those to whom this is a totally new experience. Going without life’s luxuries is well worth it for a stay in this amazing location.

Question 3

Is the Affric Kintail Way right for me?

Accepted Answer

This is suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The daily mileage isn’t big, but the remoteness and a heavier pack for 2 days adds to the challenge. 
This would be perfect adventure for a first time long-distance trail walker, who perhaps has ambitions of taking on some longer more remote routes.  Equally, if you have enjoyed walking a long-distance trail before and are looking for something unique, this could tick that box.
While you don’t need long-distance walking experience you will need a reasonable level of fitness and determination to help you get to the finish. The fitter you are the more enjoyable the experience. After booking you can opt in to our 'Training for the Trails' mailing list to help you arrive prepared for your trek.

Question 4

How do I get to the start?

Accepted Answer

If not driving to Drumnadrochit your public transport option is the bus from Inverness. It is worth booking your ticket in advance, and these are available from around 10-12 weeks in advance.

Question 5

Where will I be staying?

Accepted Answer

We use accommodation in Drumnadrochit, Cannich and near Morvich. You will also stay one night at the Glen Affric Youth Hostel.

Question 6

What facilities are available each night?

Accepted Answer

Drumnadrochit - this village has all the main facilities you might require at the start of your trek: A small supermarket, places to eat, bus services and a pharmacy.
Cannich - a very small village with a convenience store. At the time of writing the pub has closed but another is being built in connection to the village shop. The nearby Tommich Hotel is close by for evening meals.
Glen Affric Youth Hostel - this off-grid hostel does have cooking facilities, an electric shower, and toilets. We will need to bring in all our food and take home all our rubbish.
Morvich - another small place between Shiel Bridge and Inverinate. There is a small shop and the Kintail Lodge Hotel for evening meals.

Question 7

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

You will be provided with a full kit list, but as a guide the basics you will need are:
For the first 2 days you will just need a small rucksack (around 25 litres), walking boots, waterproof trousers, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, a spare warm layer and walking trousers (not jeans or denim), a water bottle, sun and midge protection.
In addition to this for the second 2 days you will need a larger rucksack that can carry all the food you will need on those days, a sleeping bag, pillow case, wash bag and towel, head torch, and spare warm clothing. 
A full kit list will be provided in your information pack.

Question 8

Why should I book with Thistle Trekking?

Accepted Answer

With Thistle Trekking you get a personal service. We are happy to answer any questions and queries and help where we can with all aspects of your trip.
Your point of contact will be the same person from the first enquiry to the final communication before your Affric Kintail Way trek.
Our guides are all qualified, experienced, and fun companions on the trail.

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