Autumn Glen Affric:
Among the picturesque eastern glens of Scotland, Glen Affric stands out as one of the most celebrated — many argue it is the most stunning of them all. Nestled to the south-west of the quaint village of Cannich and merely 15 miles away from the iconic Loch Ness, Glen Affric boasts a breathtaking expanse of natural woodland accompanied by meandering rivers, shimmering lochs, and towering mountains.
We owe a debt of gratitude to the commitment of both present and past generations who have tirelessly worked to protect and enhance this lush landscape for the enjoyment of future visitors.
October, notorious as Scotland’s wettest month, often provides exquisite lighting conditions ideal for capturing breathtaking photographs. During a two-day visit last October, Glen Affric lived up to its reputation, offering an enchanting blend of sunshine and showers, roaring rivers, and vibrant rainbows. The autumn scenery in Glen Affric offers a colourful spectacle unlike any other!
I vividly recall the brilliant yellow of the silver birch leaves, their hues contrasting beautifully against the deep greens of the evergreen pine forests. Delicate strands of pale greyish-green old man’s beard draped across every branch and twig, giving a mystical appearance to the trees. The ground was a tapestry of mosses, lichen, and various fungi, while the grasses presented a riot of reds and yellows alongside rusty bracken and stoic grey rocks, creating a kaleidoscope of colour that dazzled the eyes.
As the sun cast its golden light, shadows danced playfully along the valley sides, transforming photography into a spontaneous and captivating experience. The light would strike the lochside foliage predictably one moment, only to offer an ephemeral, one-time-only display the next. It was truly a magical few days surrounded by nature’s vivid artistry.
Here is a selection of images that capture the essence of that unforgettable experience:
Glen Affric Popular Walking Trails:
Glen Affric offers a diverse range of trails, catering to various fitness levels and interests. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging multi-day trek, there’s something for everyone
- Plodda Falls (Eas Ploda): A stunning 46-meter (151 feet) waterfall nestled deep within the woodland. The trail to Plodda Falls is about 0.5 miles (1 km) and is considered moderate, with mostly firm gravel surfaces but some uneven sections, steep slopes, exposed tree roots, and stone steps. Allow up to an hour for this walk.
- Dog Falls (Eas a’ Choin): This area offers three distinct trails: the Viewpoint Trail, Coire Loch Trail, and Dog Falls Trail. These trails vary in distance and are generally strenuous, featuring uneven gravel, rocks, exposed tree roots, stone slopes, and narrow sections. The Viewpoint Trail, a linear walk of about a mile each way from the car park, is well-signed and follows a well-surfaced track, offering breathtaking views of Glen Affric and the surrounding mountains. It’s particularly recommended for photographers.
- River Affric (Abhainn Afraig) Trail: A circular trail of about 0.5 miles (1 km) that winds through pine forests and along the banks of the River Affric . This trail is known for sightings of rare birds of prey, such as golden eagles and ospreys. The Am Meallan viewpoint trail, a shorter 0.25-mile (0.6 km) detour, provides excellent views across the glen.
- Loch Affric Loop: A circular walk around Loch Affric, offering consistent views of the loch and encompassing both woodland and moorland environments. This walk is not for absolute beginners and can take up to 6 hours for experienced walkers.
- Affric Kintail Way: A long-distance trail spanning 71 km (44 miles) from Inverness to Glenelg, passing through the heart of Glen Affric. This moderate to strenuous route involves hill and mountain tracks, riverside trails, minor roads, and highland paths, some of which can be indistinct and boggy. It’s an excellent option for those looking to immerse themselves in the wilderness and go “off-grid”.
- Affric Corbets (Càrn a’ Choire Ghairbh and Aonach Shasuinn): For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, this walk tackles two Corbetts (Scottish mountains between 2,500 and 3,000 feet). It offers a full day out on the hills with the potential for stunning panoramic views.
Glen Affric Wildlife and Geology:
Glen Affric is a haven for wildlife. Visitors can frequently spot herds of Red Deer, and more elusive species like the Golden Eagle, Scotland’s unofficial national bird, are also regular guests. Other notable wildlife includes martens, red squirrels, ospreys, rare crested tits, and crossbills.
The Affric-Cannich Hills are designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to their unique geological features, upland habitat, and native pinewood. The area contains rare examples of primary bedding and slumping structures in Moine rocks, dating back approximately 900 million years. These ancient rocks provide crucial insights into the geological history of Northern Scotland.
Glen Affric By Road:
The most common way to access Glen Affric is by road. From Inverness or Fort William, travellers should follow the A82 along Loch Ness to Drumnadrochit. From Drumnadrochit, turn onto the A831, which is signposted for Cannich. In Cannich village, a left turn onto a minor road, also signposted for Glen Affric, will lead directly to the glen. The River Affric car park, a key starting point for many walks, is approximately 10 miles (16 km) along this minor road. The postcode IV4 7LN can be used for the centre of Cannich village, from which the directions to Glen Affric should be followed. It’s important to note that much of the road through the glen is single-track, requiring drivers to proceed slowly and utilise passing places.
Glen Affric By Public Transport:
Public transport options to Glen Affric are more limited. An infrequent bus service operates from Inverness as far as Cannich. Additionally, buses run from Beauly to the head of Glen Affric, specifically from July to September, and these services are equipped to accommodate bicycles. Throughout the year, buses also run from Inverness to Tomich and Cannich. For detailed schedules and routes, travellers are advised to consult Traveline Scotland.
Glen Affric Considerations for Visitors:
Upon arrival, visitors will find that the River Affric car park is a pay-and-display facility, with charges of £3 for all-day parking and £12 for minibuses or coaches. Blue Badge holders can park for free. Payment can be made using coins, card, or the RingGo app. While overnight parking is generally not permitted in most Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) car parks, it is allowed at the River Affric car park for mountain access, though camping or sleeping in vehicles is not permitted within the car park itself.
Visitors must be aware that mobile phone reception is generally unavailable within Glen Affric. This means electronic maps relying on a network connection will not function, and calling for help in an emergency will be difficult. Therefore, carrying physical maps and being prepared for self-reliance is highly recommended, especially for those planning longer hikes.
For refreshments and amenities, there are no cafés or shops directly within Glen Affric. The nearest options for food and supplies are located in the villages of Cannich and Tomich. Public toilets at the River Affric car park are open seasonally, from April 1st to October 31st.
Glen Affric Long-Distance Trails:
Glen Affric is also a significant point for long-distance walkers and mountain bikers. The Affric Kintail Way (AKW), a fully signposted cross-country route, stretches almost 44 miles from Drumnadrochit on Loch Ness to Morvich in Kintail by Loch Duich. This trail passes through the Glen Affric National Nature Reserve and offers stunning views and varied landscapes, including ancient drove roads and woodlands. The AKW is recommended for experienced travellers due to some strenuous sections and significant ascent.
Fragmented Memory 🙂
