Exploring Glen Affric by Campervan the Best Campsites and Places to Visit

 July 23, 2024

  Read Time: About 15 minutes

A Small House in a Grassy Field. Glen Affric, Beauly

Glen Affric, Beauly. Laura Jarvis

And we’re off to the third stop of our Scottish Highlands campervan road trip. This part of our road trip takes a look at the spectacular beauty of Glen Affric, a National Scenic Area. We'll dive into the best places to soak in the scenery, top spots to set up camp for the night, and easy campervan hire towns nearby. Use our road trip itinerary as a guide, but feel free to add in stops and sights you’d like to explore within Glen Affric, or the nearby area.

Release your imagination and explore one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. Think about mind blowing scenery, endless open skies, crumbling castles and dramatic scenery. Go wild and explore gorgeous open scenery and set out on a relaxing holiday.

Glen Affric is often said to be one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, flanked on the north by the highest mountains in the north west Highlands. Shapely cone shaped peaks loom over a glittering glacial valley, with steep sides and a broad floor in which rests two great lochs and a gorgeous river. Lush forests cover the lower slopes of the hill, and stands a testament to the stunning native Caledonian Pine forest that once spread across most of the area. The nature serve holds the third largest area of ancient Caledonian pinewoods in Scotland, promising an unforgettable experience and the feel of being away from it all.

Can you Visit Glen Affric?

Absolutely! We would not have included Glen Affric in our campervan road trip itinerary of the Scottish Highlands if it didn’t deserve pride of place! This really is a beautiful area in Scotland known for its stunning natural scenery, including lochs, forests, and mountains. It's a top spot for hiking, wildlife watching, and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're interested in exploring the trails, taking in the picturesque landscapes, or simply experiencing the tranquillity of nature, Glen Affric is the place to be.

Is Glen Affric Worth Visiting?

Glen Affric is definitely worth a visit, especially if you're drawn to stunning natural landscapes and serene beauty. Renowned as one of Scotland's most beautiful glens, Glen Affric captivates visitors with its ancient Caledonian pine forests, vast lochs, and rugged mountains. Spend your holiday hiking along well-marked trails that lead to cascading waterfalls, or simply sit back and soak in the peaceful atmosphere while picnicking by the shores of Loch Affric. The glen also offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts. Its biodiversity, including rare species of flora and fauna, adds to its allure as a designated nature reserve. Come, and explore the area on foot, by bike for a relaxing camping stay.

If you need a countryside escape, look no further than Craskie Estate set on a lush smallholding in the scenic surrounds of the Highlands. Wake up to the soft trills of birdsong and the gentle bleating of sheep .

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  • Campervan Hire Towns in Glen Affric National Scenic Area

    Glen Affric

    Glen Affric. Myjigsawfallingintoplace

    When you book a campervan in Strathglass, it opens up a gateway to the pristine wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. Nestled amidst the majestic Glen Affric and Cannich, Strathglass offers a tranquil base that is beyond perfect for starting your adventure. Experience the stunning landscapes of Glen Affric NSA through our convenient campervan hire Scottish Highland options, Take a look through our rentals ranging from the classic, compact vans to larger motorhomes, and you’ll find private owners who cater to an array of preferences.Wake up to breathtaking views of rugged mountains and glittering lochs right outside your camper window, and savour the unbridled flexibility to roam through ancient Caledonian pine forests. Alternatively, you can ascend to panoramic viewpoints like Plodda Falls. Uncover Scotland's natural splendour, where each bend in the road reveals a new vista waiting to be discovered. We also recommend looking for campervans in Dingwall, campervans Garve, and campervans Cannich.

    Hire a campervan in Muir of Ord, and uncover a serene escape into the heart of the Highlands. Located near Inverness, this sleepy village is an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Whether you prefer pitching a tent amidst lush greenery or parking your campervan for a night under the starry skies, Muir of Ord offers several excellent locations to hire a campervan from private owners, The area brims with campsites and is a fantastic space for enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature, paired with scenic walks along the River Conon. Book your camper and venture into nearby Glen Affric for more adventurous hikes. With its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to both coastal views and mountainous terrain, hiring a campervan in Muir of Ord is ideal for exploring Scotland's stunning landscapes. We have 10 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Muir of Ord. You can also find campervans for hire in Moray, campervans for hire in North Kessock, and campervans for hire in Evanton.

    Price Per Day: £130 in July, £90 in August, £70 in September.

    Age: 25-70

    Travel: UK Only

    Gearbox: Manual

    The Motorhome compact size makes it very easy to manoeuvre and drive. Not suitable for City Centre Low Emission Zones, campsites are usually out with these areas therefore it shouldn't be an issue. Minimum hire is 5 nights.

    Hiring a campervan in Inverness is the perfect gateway to explore the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands at your own pace. With numerous campervans available in and around Inverness, you can choose a campervan that best suits your travel needs. We have compact vehicles for a couple and larger models for a family or group of adventuring friends. Imagine waking up to stunning lochs and mist-covered mountains right outside your door. You’ll have the flexibility to change your road trip itinerary on a whim. From Inverness, you can easily embark on iconic routes like the North Coast 500 or delve into remote glens such as Glen Affric. We have a range of campervans for hire in Inverness, and recommend searching for more campervans in Fortrose, campervans in Beauly, campervans in Rosemarkie, and campervans in Strathpeffer. With 14 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Inverness, you’re bound to find the right spot for you. Find a camping vehicle on the site for your campervan hire.

    Can you Camp in Glen Affric?

    While wild camping is not for everyone, there is a large community of adventurous souls who prize camping out with minimal facilities and optimal views. Glen Affric is a fine place to pitch a tent for a night, and while we do understand the urge to park up and admire the unspoilt scenery, wild camping is often frowned upon in much of the UK. Scotland might be the most lenient with regards to setting up base at an isolated and wild location, and wild camping is also allowed in certain areas under Scotland's access rights legislation, which grants the right to camp on most unenclosed land. We do not recommend wild camping as it may lead to pollution and a disruption within the local wildlife, as not all campers are mindful of the environment or the surrounding wildlife. There are several beautiful campsites around the glen, with many excellent camping spaces right the fringes of Glen Affric or in nearby towns like Kintail and Cannich. Checking with local authorities or websites like the National Trust for Scotland for specific regulations and recommended camping spots can also be helpful.

    Walking Around Loch Affric

    Glen Affric

    Glen Affric. Tom_Et_Nanou

    Travelling west from the glen we come across a heavily wooded land, with strands of pine and birch, scattered with glades of lush, deep heather. The trees begin to thin as we get closer to Loch Affric, and the landscape gives way to expose moorland and bog with the conical shaped mountains of Kintail providing a spectacular backdrop. Three more glens open up at the far end of Glen Affric, each leading deeper into the hills.

    Glen Affric falls within a gorgeous 30-mile forest reserve and there is a bid to include it and Loch Ness as Scotland’s third national park. Explore a stunning landscape where dense forest transitions into exposed moorland. You’ll feel at peace in the wilderness and the glen is a sight to behold during all seasons, and holds beautiful bodies of water. Take a moment to gaze out across the shimmering lochs from rocky shores, relax in a small bay, or explore the wooded isles and occasional beaches.

    Walkers can hop on the Glen Affric trail that begins in Inverness, the capital of the highlandst. If coastal capers are in order, why not continue west between the imposing mass of Bheinn Fhada and the Five Sisters of Kintail to lounge on the beach at Shiel Bridge.

    Kessock Caravan Park is a wonderfully peaceful, secluded woodland park in a quiet location on the Black Isle peninsula. Sit back and listen to the twitter of birds in a serene place that belies its proximity to the A9.

    Glen Affric is a wonderful place for hiking, wildlife watching, photography, and natural heritage. It is a fine example of Scotland’s untamed beauty, and proudly encompasses ancient forests, tranquil lochs, and majestic mountains that provide an unforgettable landscape that attracts visitors from around the world. Find solace in untamed wilderness and marvel at the beauty of Scotland.

    Camping in and around Glen Affric National Scenic Area

    Searching for camping locations can often be a tricky and somewhat tedious task. For those looking to stay closer to the city, there are several well-equipped campsites in Inverness that offer convenient access to urban amenities while still providing a gateway to the Scottish Highlands. There’s amenities to consider, ease of access to local attractions, and perhaps most importantly, the location of the campsite. We suggest camping in Cannich, Roy Bridge, or Fort Augustus if you’d like to be close to Glen Affric, and enjoy a range of camping options nearby. Visit our main page or more campsites in the UK.

    Use our search engine to filter campsites by location or postcode. We also suggest more camping locations nearby to make it easy for our users to find a range of options and facilities with minimal effort. Scroll to the end of the page to find campsites near Glen Affric, or any area you would like to park for the night. Add in your dates and whizz ove a message to the campsite owners. It’s that easy.

    The site rests amid fantastic scenery enabling guests from all walks of life to feel the world slow down and the shake off the stress of modern life as they soak in the vistas of sparkling lochs, jagged mist-capped mountains and fertile woodlands that are home to a range of exciting flora and fauna.

    Cannich is a picturesque village tucked away in the Scottish Highlands. The settlement is known for its tranquil setting and access to stunning natural landscapes. Situated near Glen Affric, the town is a delight for walkers who can explore the ancient Caledonian pine forests and serene lochs. Take a stroll through the village for traditional Highland architecture and a warm community atmosphere. Our campsites in Cannich are ideal for exploring nearby hiking trails, fishing in local rivers, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests. We list 71 beautiful campsites within 40 miles, plus more camping in Strathglass campsites, Beauly campsites, Strathpeffer campsites, Garve campsites, Invergarry campsites, Achnasheen campsites, Moray campsites and Dingwall campsites.

    Glen Affric has 76 campsites within 40 miles of Fort Augustus Keen to camp near glittering bodies of water with stunning mountain views? Fort Augustus is a lovely village located at the southern end of Loch Ness, and a popular stop for tourists exploring the famous Loch Ness plus the enclosing area. The village is best known for its impressive series of locks on the Caledonian Canal, where visitors can spend hours watching boats navigate through the waterway. The village offers stunning views of Loch Ness and the surrounding mountains, creating a quiet and viewsome spot for scenic walks plus photography. The village itself has a welcoming atmosphere with quaint shops, cafes, and pubs catering to visitors. Savour the Highland ambiance with our campsites in Fort Augustus. For more places to unwind at night, look at our campsites in Spean Bridge, campsites in Newtonmore and campsites in Shiel Bridge. With 76 campsites within 40 miles of Fort Augustus, you’re bound to find a site that ticks all the boxes.

    Set in a scenic Highlands forest, Inver Coille campsite is a beautiful place to escape the stress of the cities. It offers a spectacular landscape brimming with rolling countryside and stunning mountain vistas. You’ll feel the pressure of modern life melt away as soon as you enter this peaceful, remote site enclosed by thick woodlands and towering mountains.

    Roy Bridge is a small and charming village nestled in the Scottish Highlands. The quiet settlement is best known for its picturesque surroundings, wealth of outdoor activities, and varied opportunities to explore nearby towns and villages. Set near Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK, Roy Bridge offers spectacular views of jagged mountains and tranquil lochs, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you enjoy hiking, climbing, and skiing, you might find a campsite in Roy Bridge the perfect base for your stay. The village itself exudes a relaxing atmosphere, with traditional Highland architecture and a warm, welcoming community. We have a range of camping locations for you, plus 88 campsites within 40 miles of Roy Bridge, ensuring ample options for your holiday. You might also like camping in Fort William campsites, Kinlochleven campsites, Rannoch campsites, Glencoe campsites, Ballachulish campsites and Loch Shiel campsites.

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  • Best Camping at Glen Affric

    Are you scratching your head as you wonder where to set up your tent or touring vehicle for the night? We’ve got a fab selection of camping options in and around Glen Affric, ranging from the tent-only, no-frills camping, to extensive holiday parks offering a range of features and camping accommodation. Send a direct message to the campsite via Camperbug, and enjoy the ease of booking both a campervan and motorhome in one go.

    We’ve also added filters at the top of the page to help you sift through campsites based on the pitch or glamping accommodation you want. Click on the icon and let the website do the rest. Find a campsite that feels like home, and settle in for yet another lovely escape in the Scottish Higlands.


    Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site in Fortrose

    Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site in Fortrose

    Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site, Fortrose

    The folks at Rosemarkie Camping and Caravanning Club Site have certainly bagged one of the best locations around. Picture yourself camping in a gloriously peaceful and scenic setting, sandwiched between hills and woodland on one side, and Scotland’s largest firth on the other. One of the biggest draws at this caravan and camping site is not the excellent facilities or the friendly staff. The site is only a short walk from a beautiful lighthouse which is an excellent place to watch dolphins. The nearby village of Rosemarkie is a fab spot for exploring Pictish stones in the Groam house museum, and also holds a handy collection of pubs and shops. The site only offers grass only pitches with optional electric metres, and pets are most welcome to tag along.



    Riverside Caravan Park in Strathpeffer

    Riverside Caravan Park in Strathpeffer

    Riverside Caravan Park, Strathpeffer

    Riverside Caravan Park is a worthy consideration for road trips in Glen Affric, and a top spot for those who prefer adult-only camping. Enjoy lovely scenery from a quiet position next to the glimmering River Blackwater, with enticing open air activities, like hillwalking in the Munro mountains, mere minutes away. Unlike other parks, the owners forgo access to blaring entertainment, bustling clubhouses and pizza joints for a tranquil stay, complete with jaw-dropping Scottish scenery and the freedom to fish on the Blackwater River on appointed dates. A reasonably priced village shop nearby stocks camping essentials, and owners welcome guests to enjoy the thrills of alfredo dining courtesy of barbecues.



    Inchintaury in Tain

    Inchintaury in Tain

    Inchintaury, Tain

    Inchintaury is a tranquil site run by cheery Alan in the Highlands. The site is ideal for anyone exploring the Highlands or following the NC500. The fabulous site is well-positioned for exploring Glen Affric, and is completely pet-friendly, with the owner encouraging pets to run free. While it may not be the largest camping space on the block, the scenery is spectacular and the nearest village, Edderton is an easy two miles from the gates. Standard amenities are available, and the warmth of the welcoming owner adds a lovely touch to your camping experience.

    Caravan Camping at Glen Affric

    If you’re searching for a peaceful base to leave your caravan as you explore the delights of stunning Glen Affric, you might find a home away from home at Ardtower Caravan Park, a beautiful caravan site in Inverness. Base yourself in one of the largest and most centrally placed towns in the Highlands, and enjoy a range of comforts, including a small shop stocked with basic amenities, fully-serviced pitches and a communal barbeque hut. If you prefer waterside views, hop on over to Loch Ness Shores Camping, a fantastic space for caravans in Inverness, a literal stroll from Loch Ness, ensuring gorgeous backdrops as you step outside your caravan. Campers can use the site as a base for walking and explore historic sites like Urquhart Castle. Plus the lovely towns of Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit. Inverness Bunchrew Caravan Park is yet another fab site for caravans, set on the shores of Beauly Firth, offering guests a scenic and peaceful space enclosed by 20 well-maintained acres with lovely vistas towards Firth and the mountains. All campsites are well-equipped to handle caravans of all sizes, and provide a range of standard amenities.

    The adults-only Faichemard Farm Camping Site rests in an idyllic location on the fringes of the picturesque village of Invergarry. This spectacularly scenic site rests on an extensive ten acres and provides an atmosphere of seclusion and affords heaps of space.

    What Castles Are Near Glen Affric?

    Glen Affric

    Glen Affric. Paulvernall

    As we conclude, don’t forget to add a few castles, to your campervan road trip itinerary! There are several beautiful castles around Glen Affric.

    Get a glimpse into Scotland's turbulent history while you explore the beautiful landscapes they are set in! and add a dash of historical intrigue to the natural beauty of the area. Situated on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is about a 30-minute drive from Glen Affric. This iconic castle offers panoramic views over the Loch and has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. While not a castle, Beauly Priory is a historic ruin located in the village of Beauly, which is close to Glen Affric. It was founded in the 13th century and provides a glimpse into mediaeval religious life in the Highlands. If you’re in the mood to drive, take about a 45-minute drive from Glen Affric to Inverness, and explore Inverness Castle. This magnificent structure rests on a cliff overlooking the River Ness. The current castle dates from the 19th century and houses the Sheriff Court. Stay up to date with its opening times here

    Last but not least, we have Dunvegan Castle. link The attraction is a bit further away on the Isle of Skye, approximately a 2-hour drive from Glen Affric. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and has been the ancestral home of the Chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years.

    Spread out on your spacious plot and enjoy a stunning waterfront location as you soak in the scenery and bask in the golden warmth of the sun. Head out for scenic walks over the cliffside to the coastal village of Findochty.

    As the sun sets over the rugged peaks and tranquil lochs of Glen Affric, we huddle around a campfire for the last night, and relive memories of this leg of our Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands through this stunning nature reserve made of ancient Caledonian forest. We’ve enjoyed a tapestry of breathtaking vistas, explored castles that tell tales of history, and enjoyed the camaraderie of shared adventures under the vast Highland skies. Glen Affric, with its pristine wilderness and ageless beauty, has etched itself into our hearts as a place where nature and the spirit of exploration thrives. As we bid farewell to this enchanting landscape, we carry with us not just photographs and souvenirs, but a newfound appreciation for the majesty of Scotland's wilderness and the joy of the open road.

    The next leg of our road trip in the Scottish Highlands winds through Cairngorms National Park, the UK’s largest national park, and an absolute must-visit for anyone who enjoys nature. As always, we’ll add to our itinerary the picks of the best campsites in the area, campervan hire locations around Cairngorms, and places to book a Highlands campsite nearby. Stay tuned for our next update and feel free to share our Scottish Highland road trip itinerary with fellow adventurers.

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