Explore the New Cannich to Shenval Section of the Affric Kintail Way
The Affric Kintail Way, one of the most breathtaking long-distance walking routes in the Scottish Highlands Guide, offers an inspiring mix of rugged mountains, ancient Caledonian forests, shimmering lochs, and unspoiled Highland wilderness. A recently completed extension between Cannich and Shenval provides even more opportunities for walkers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts to experience the raw natural beauty of this iconic region.
As part of the Inverness-Shire Guide, this stretch enhances access to the Highland interior, offering an enriching route ideal for both adventure and tranquility. Whether you're a long-distance trekker or simply looking for a rewarding day hike, this section provides a versatile and unforgettable outdoor experience.
From deep forest paths to open moorland vistas, the route between Cannich and Shenval connects travellers to some of the most scenic terrain in Scotland.
Distance: 15.2 km (9.4 miles)
Estimated Time: 4.5 – 6 hours
Terrain: Mixed – forest trails, open ground, riverside paths
Difficulty: Moderate
Ideal For: Hiking, Trail Running, Mountain Biking, Photography
Below is a list of important GPS waypoints along the route. These coordinates are useful for outdoor mapping Apps or handheld GPS units and can help ensure a safe and well-planned journey across this remote part of the Highlands.
| Waypoint Name | Coordinates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cannich Trail Start | 57.3248° N, 4.8063° W | Route begins near Cannich village car park |
| River Glass Crossing | 57.3186° N, 4.7821° W | Cross the River Glass via footbridge |
| Forest Ridge Viewpoint | 57.3072° N, 4.7619° W | Panoramic view of Glen Affric treeline |
| Moorland Stretch | 57.2981° N, 4.7442° W | Exposed moorland path, watch the weather |
| Loch Beinn a’ Mheadhoin | 57.2904° N, 4.7291° W | Superb loch views and photo opportunities |
| Shenval Arrival Point | 57.2776° N, 4.7133° W | End of route, access to Shenval rest area |
This route is suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities, and is a significant addition to Inverness-Shire Attractions and Scotland Attractions for active travellers. Here’s what’s possible along this exciting new section:
Perfect for day hikers and multi-day trekkers alike, this part of the Affric Kintail Way offers an undisturbed and clearly defined path through ancient Highland scenery.
Runners seeking a mix of elevation and terrain variety will enjoy the balance of forest shade and open-air moorland. Good trail shoes are recommended.
Although some rocky and narrow sections require care, most of the route is rideable and ideal for experienced bikers with off-road capabilities.
The area is rich with wildlife, including red deer, golden eagles, pine martens, and rare plant species. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to spot them.
Photographers will find limitless opportunities—reflections on still lochs, rolling cloudscapes, and sweeping Highland vistas abound.
Experienced outdoor travellers may wish to wild camp along the route. Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and practice responsible camping ethics.
Weather Conditions: Conditions can change rapidly—check forecasts before heading out, and pack waterproof gear and thermal layers.
Navigation: GPS and offline maps are strongly recommended; mobile coverage is limited or nonexistent.
Water: Natural sources are available but should be filtered or treated before consumption.
Facilities: Few amenities exist between Cannich and Shenval; carry your own supplies.
Transport: Cannich is accessible by road from Inverness (~1 hour drive). Shenval may require arranged pickup or a return loop depending on your travel plan.
Emergency Contact: Let someone know your expected route and timing before departure.
As part of the Scotland Guide, this new extension integrates more deeply into the cultural and natural richness of the Highlands. The route skirts the edge of Glen Affric, often celebrated as one of Scotland’s most scenic glens. This adds to the regional charm and contributes to the increasing appeal of this trail as a key feature in Scotland Attractions.
The land through which this route winds has witnessed thousands of years of geological and human history, from glacial formation to ancient clan territory. Hiking here is more than an outdoor activity—it's an immersive Highland experience.
The Cannich to Shenval section of the Affric Kintail Way is a refreshing and remote journey suitable for various outdoor activities. It strengthens the appeal of the Affric Kintail corridor as one of the most versatile and scenic long-distance routes within the Inverness-Shire Guide and the broader Scottish Highlands Guide.
With a thoughtfully mapped route, key GPS waypoints, and a blend of landscapes from tranquil lochs to high forest ridges, this new section is a must-do for those seeking adventure, beauty, and solitude in the heart of Scotland.
Whether you're planning a multi-day expedition or simply a full-day excursion, this is one trail that promises lasting memories. Step into the Highlands and let nature lead the way.
Stay in Shenval which is In a prime outdoor area near to Glen Affric, Glen Cannich and Glen Strathfarrer,There are 16 Munro's within a 30 minute drive. The nearest village is Cannich with a post office and spar shop, with Drumnadrochit a village with a good range of facilities and collection of local services and a small selection of shops. There is the local primary and secondary school as well as a care centre and pharmacy, for both locals and visitors alike. The City of Inverness, is a short drive away along the edge of Loch Ness, the bus route goes through the village with Bus routes to Skye and Fort William and in all directions of the compass, from Inverness, along with the train station heading in all directions.
Book your stay and discover Shenval which is to be found in the county of Inverness-Shire in the Highland region, making it an ideal location base for a vacation break and for touring around the Highland's, so If you are looking for accommodation or intend taking a holiday break in Shenval or it's surrounding areas in the Scottish Highland's and want to book direct with owners travelling independently to village of Shenval then try searching for your next vacation accommodation throughout the area of Inverness-Shire with stay4you.com. Shenval offers the visitor a wealth of hospitality Holiday Accommodation on it's doorstep all can be sourced from locations in the area such as the town of Drumnadrochit or the beautiful rural location of Glen Urquhart in hotelrooms, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, and all types of self-catering properties. To choose, which you can book through stay4you.com try selecting your search from, either in the village local towns or the more rural areas.
Shenval is close to Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, the NC500 route and Outlander locations such as the Corrimony Cairn, RSPB Corrimony Reserve, Cannich, Beauly and Drumnadrochit, all found in the Highlands.
This is a great place to start exploring the scenic Highlands of Scotland an ideal holiday destination, with all types of accommodation to choose from, Located on the A82 in a sheltered valley that runs down to Loch Ness the village is situated approx. 14 miles south of Inverness and 25 miles from Inverness airport which has a good number of daily national and international flights and good road and rail links in all directions of the compass.
The local economy is generated from tourism, with plenty of accommodation to suite all pockets, along with agriculture, and forestry services all of which provide a major source of income and employment.
Tourism is seasonal bringing an abundance of visitors to the area during the spring, summer and Autumn. This region is an ideal touring base to visit the Scottish Highlands, with the Loch Ness circular tour, Ben Nevis, Glencoe, the Isle of Skye, the Cairngorms National Park, the North-West Highland coast and the Whisky Trail so check out and search for Shenval holiday accommodation
Find a holiday cottage is set in the glorious surroundings, Ideally placed for touring the Whisky Trail,with many of the distilleries in the area offering tours and tasting. There is good hill walking, cycling on forest tracks, pony trekking, fishing, and Skiing, Find a Bed and Breakfast enjoy a relaxing stay, take a tour or spend your day climbing a nearby Munroe, cycle the glens, fish in the rivers or try the numerous beautiful walks. Stay in a large Hotel in the city offering all the opulence that Inverness has to offer, stay or a castle with large gardens for a stroll after Breakfast or lunch, or take a boat trip on Loch Ness sail the Loch try and see Nessy.
Shenval is a tranquil Hamlet of properties built in the 1950’s by the Forestry Commission. Shenval is located in the idyllic and scenic area of Glenurquhart, with a Bed and Breakfast property, making this a great starting point to explore the area. Ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, horse riding, walking, climbing, kayaking, cycling and much much more, here you can find forest walks starting only a few hundred metres from the Bed and Breakfast and the ‘Glen Affric Nature Reserve’ popular with Tourists and Locals alike is only ten miles away.
Approximately seven miles away is the World famous Loch Ness and the Village of Drumnadrochit, here you will find churches,a Post Office, a village Hall, a Pharmacy, Medical Centre. And the Primary School Children living in Shenval attend the local School in close by Balnain, and older Children attend Glenurquhart High School in Drumnadrochit. A School bus facility transports the Children to and from both Schools.
A local public bus service operates between Inverness, Glenurquhart and surrounding Villages.
Inverness City is approximately 28 miles from Shenval, here you will find a wider choice of shops and leisure activities along with excellent air, rail and road transport links connecting the Highlands with the rest of the world.
Are you looking for a unique experience when visiting Scotland? Then take a trip to the small town of Shenval. With its rolling green hills, charming cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the valley below, it offers visitors an unforgettable stay.
From relaxing walks through peaceful meadows dotted with wildflowers to lively pubs offering delicious traditional dishes and craft beer selections, there is something here for everyone. And did we mention that every visit comes complete with endless opportunities for exploring some fascinating historical sites or discovering local culture? It’s no wonder why so many people choose this destination as their ideal holiday spot!
Where else can you find yourself bed & breakfast-ing at one of the oldest inns in town while taking part in pub crawls or renting mountain bikes nearby? Or perhaps spend your days enjoying guided fishing tours on Loch Shin followed by campfire dinners under starry skies - all just steps away from your door! When staying around Shenval there really are few limits; whichever adventure you embark on will be sure to leave lasting memories long after leaving these shores again. The friendly locals make it easy too – always willing offer up advice about what sights not miss out on or secret places nobody knows about yet. Whether adventuring alone or bringing family along, rest assured knowing there's always time enough left during any break here explore such delightful wonders lying hidden amid tranquil surroundings.
You should put some consideration into your itinerary in advance if you want to get the most out of your time in Shenval, which is located in the county of Inverness-Shire. It's possible that you'll get the most out of your trip if you visit some of the best places that Shenval was suggested during their time together.
If you start here, you can save yourself a lot of time researching the many options by starting here. One has the ability to select from a variety of available options. There is a variety of choice that is deserving of consideration. If you want to make a good impression on the people who live in Shenval, the best place to begin is at the website for Shenval Attractions. Here, you will be able to obtain a great deal of information that will be of assistance to you and get a head start on your preparation. If you read this, you will be aware of everything there is to know about the site as well as everything you can do while you are there. As a direct consequence of what you have just read, this will take place. We would greatly appreciate it if you could tell us everything there is to know about Shenval and the surrounding area, including the most exciting things to do and the restaurants with the best food. We would appreciate it if you could keep us informed of any interesting events that are taking place in Shenval and the neighbouring areas. Please fill out the following contact form if you would like to speak with a member of our team. We are indebted to you for the assistance that you've provided in this matter.
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Are you looking to explore one of Scotland's most stunning and picturesque highland villages? Shenval offers an idyllic escape from the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life, with its rolling hills full of wildflowers, forests speckled with wildlife and breathtaking changes in scenery. As a small village set near Loch Ness in Inverness-shire where there are plenty of things to do for all ages - it is little wonder that this beautiful destination has become so popular amongst holidaymakers.
This guide aims to provide those wanting ultimate tranquillity on their break away a comprehensive overview into what Shenval can offer them during an unforgettable stay. From natural wonders like exploring local lochs or scaling nearby mountains – enjoy the sights while hiking amidst some truly spectacular landscapes arrivals will be humbled by – through to delightful eateries tucked inside old stone buildings providing freshly caught seafood delicacies: get ready for your senses being tantalised! Other attractions include heritage sites such as Urquhart Castle dominating panoramic views across Loch Ness itself plus historical monuments found nestling within tranquil woodlands just begging visitors take photos against; art galleries exhibiting works richly depicting Highland cultures still living today coupled with museums located around every corner able capture imaginations yet further.
Urquhart Castle: This historic castle is located on the shores of Loch Ness and offers stunning views of the loch. It's a popular attraction due to its rich history and dramatic setting.
Loch Ness: The Loch Ness area is famous for the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, and the loch itself is a beautiful and mysterious body of water. You can take boat tours to explore the loch and learn more about its history.
Great Glen Way: If you enjoy hiking and the outdoors, the Great Glen Way is a long-distance trail that passes through Glen Urquhart. It offers fantastic walking and biking opportunities with breathtaking scenery.
Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition: Located in the nearby village of Drumnadrochit, this exhibition provides in-depth information about the Loch Ness Monster legend, the loch's geology, and its wildlife.
Plodda Falls: Plodda Falls is a spectacular waterfall located near the village of Tomich, not far from Glen Urquhart. It's an excellent place for a nature walk and to admire the cascading waters.
Glen Affric: A bit further west, Glen Affric is one of Scotland's most beautiful glens, known for its pristine nature and stunning landscapes. It's a great place for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the Scottish wilderness.
Corrimony Chambered Cairn: A well-preserved Neolithic burial chamber located in Glen Urquhart. It's an interesting archaeological site and provides a glimpse into ancient history.
Highland Wildlife Park: Located in Kincraig, a bit to the east of Glen Urquhart, this wildlife park is home to a variety of animals native to the Highlands, including Scottish wildcats, red squirrels, and more.
Cruises on Loch Ness: Several companies offer boat cruises on Loch Ness, which is a great way to explore the loch, hear more about its history, and keep an eye out for the Loch Ness Monster.
Caledonian Canal: Explore the Caledonian Canal, which runs through the area. You can take walks along the canal, watch boats pass through the locks, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Glen Urquhart and its surroundings offer a mix of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for travelers interested in Scotland's stunning landscapes and rich culture.