66-Scenic Campervan Road Trip Guide to the Kintail NSA-NOT-PUBLISHED

Kintail, Robert J Heath

Are you ready for a new adventure? Perfect! Today, our campervan road trip in the Scottish Highland, takes us to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Kintail National Scenic Area. This protected region in the Scottish Highlands is renowned for its spectacular natural beauty and dramatic landscapes.

• Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands

Located in the western part of Scottish Highlands, the Kintail National Scenic Area comprises part of Kintail and the Glen Shiel areas. Embrace the raw wilderness and dramatic mountain vistas of Kintail NSA with our reliable campervan hire Scottish Highland services, designed to help you navigate these legendary landscapes with comfort and freedom. The scenery here is characterised by rugged mountains, deep glens and clear glittering lochs, with the iconic Five Sisters of Kintail - a range of sharp, pointed peaks - being one of the area’s stand out features.

A National Scenic Area is a designation used in Scotland to protect and highlight areas of exceptional natural beauty. Established by the Scottish government, these areas are recognised for their distinctive landscapes and are considered to be of national importance.

The region is a hotspot for outdoor activities like hiking, climbing and wildlife watching. The varied terrain and captivating views make it a top attraction for serious trekkers, casual walkers, and all who enjoy lush sceneries and the feel of being away from it all. Throw in a generous sprinkling of interesting historic sites, like crofting communities and ancient ruins, and you’ve got yourself a range of attractions and activities to cram into a bank holiday, or stretch out over a couple of weeks. Read on as we explore the raw, dramatic scenery of the Scottish Highlands. Find your best Scotland campervan hire and a selection of campsites in Scotland.

• What are The Five Sisters of Kintail?
• Kintail National Scenic Area Walks
• Best Camping at Kintail
• Best campsites at Kintail
• Kintail Kayaking
• Tent Camping at Kintail National Scenic Area
• Caravan Camping at Kintail National Scenic Area
• Campervan at Kintail National Scenic Area Price
• Best Campervan Road Trip Kintail National Scenic Area
• Loch Shiel to The Kintail National Scenic Area

What are The Five Sisters of Kintail?

Perhaps the most famous of all Kintail's attractions are the Five Sisters of Kintail, a dramatic mountain range tucked within the Kintail National Scenic Area. The range is famed for its rugged appearance and sharp, pointy peaks, a delight for hikers and walkers. The Five Sisters are:

1. Sgùrr Fhuaran - The highest peak in the range, at 1,065 metres (3,464 feet).

2. Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe - Meaning "Peak of the Black Chest," this mountain reaches 1,006 metres (3,304 feet).

3. Sgùrr na Carnach - A rugged peak that reaches 1,006 meters (3,304 feet).

4. Sgùrr na Sgine is a challenging yet rewarding mountain with views of 941 metres (3,087 feet).

5. Sgùrr Beag - The smallest of the five with an elevation of 912 metres (2,992 feet).

Hiking the Five Sisters is by no means easy, but the eagle-eye views and feeling of being quite literally on top of the world are worth the effort. The main hiking routes are considered strenuous and require good fitness and experience.

The Five Sisters Traverse is a classic hike exploring all five peaks in a single outing. This path is a long, demanding walk, usually done as a circular route starting and ending at the village of Glen Shiel. The hike typically begins at the car park near Cluanie Inn and starts at Sgùrr Fhuaran, progressing along the ridge to tackle each peak, ending with Sgùrr Beag. The route covers approximately 15-18 kilometres and takes 8 - 10 hours to complete. The Sgùrr Fhuaran Ascent is best for readers keen to summit only one peak, and Sgùrr Fhuaran is the highest and most prominent one with impressive views. This route also starts in the car park Cluanie Inn or further along the A87 road and offers various routes to the top, involving a blend of steep paths and rocky terrain. It takes around 5 - 7 hours to complete and covers roughly 10 kilometres (6 miles). Another popular route is the hike to Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe Ascent, the second-highest peak of the Five Sisters. Start at the car parks mentioned before and ascend via the path leading to Sgùrr na Ciste Duibhe. Return by the same route or hop to another peak if conditions and stamina allow. The round trip covers 8 kilometres (5 miles), is moderately challenging and takes around 4 - 6 hours.

Kintail National Scenic Area Walks

Kintail. Mike McBey

Explore the range of walks at Glen Shiel. From shorter, more accessible routes for families to more demanding hikes for seasoned adventurers, the glen is enveloped by dramatic mountains and scenery best admired at a preferred pace. The Glen Shiel to Shiel Bridge is a relaxed walking path through the glen, ideal for soaking in the captivating vistas while wandering through the serene landscape at a gentle pace. While technically just outside the Kintail National Scenic Area, Glen Affric is a fab spot for more stunning walks through ancient woodland and shimmering lochs. Follow the scenic route from Glen Affric to Loch Beinn a' Mheadhoi, or hop on the long-distance Affric Kintail Way connecting Glen Affric with the Kintail area. Our readers can also opt to follow the route on bike and horseback. For our readers heading to the Isle of Skye with time for a quick stop, we recommend taking the short but very rough walk from the Jacobite Battle of Glenshiel site. We ask that our readers always check the weather forecast, carry a map, compass or GPS device, and wear sturdy hiking boots. Pack rain gear and plenty of food and water, and consult local guides for recommendations.

If you prefer pedalling over walking, several stunning forest trails around the Kintail area are perfect for mountain biking. These offer varying levels of difficulty and scenery. Our readers can also pedal or rumble along the popular A87 Road. This road runs through the heart of the Kintail National Scenic Area and offers jaw-dropping views of the mountains and lochs. It's a great way to savour the area's beauty at a relaxed pace.

Best Camping at Kintail

Among the many welcoming campsites in Highland, those nestled within the Kintail region offer unparalleled access to some of Scotland's most spectacular wilderness experiences. There are plenty of reasons to want to pitch a tent or park your campervan at a campsite in Kintail. Famed for its majestic mountains, breathtaking views, and serene lochs, the diverse Kintail landscape is a veritable outdoor playground crisscrossed with hiking trails, quiet walks, and excellent wildlife spotting locations. We recommend booking a campsite in Kyleakin, Shiel Bridge, and Eilean. These locations are ideal for getting about and exploring Kintail’s many points of interest while offering quiet camping bases to stretch out and unwind amid peaceful and lush settings. Read on to see why we recommend these campsites in the Kintail National Scenic Area. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.

Kyleakin is a picturesque village on the Isle of Skye, offering several outdoor attractions that capture the beauty and charm of the Scottish Highlands. Find a campsite in Kyleakin and explore the historic ruins of Castle Moil, an ancient ruin steeped in history, dating back to the 10th century. Enjoy scenic strolls along the coastline to Kyleakin Lighthouse or explore the small island of Eilean Bàn, tucked between Kyleakin and the mainland. The island is a fantastic spot for observing otters, seals, and various bird species. The area around Kyleakin brims with various walking and hiking trails, and there are several fantastic boat trip options for spotting dolphins. Explore the calm waters around the village by canoe or boat, and explore more outdoor attractions at the nearby village of Plockton. Our Kyleakin campsite locations include campsites in Kyle Of Lochalsh and campsites in strathcarron with 33 campsites within 30 miles of Kyleakin, you’re bound to find the perfect campsite for a relaxing holiday.

Shiel Bridge is a small village in the Scottish Highlands, near the eastern end of Loch Duich. When you book a campsite in Shiel Bridge, you’re at the gateway to the Kintail National Scenic Area, making it an ideal base for exploring some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. The famous Five Sisters of Kintail is easily accessible from Shiel Bridge and makes for an exciting hiking adventure. One of Britain’s highest waterfalls, the Falls of Glomach, is a must-see for nature lovers and is accessible via an 8-mile round trip. Glen Shiel is a short distance away, providing easy access to trails and viewpoints. Loch Duich is next to Shiel Bridge, making it a fantastic spot for waterside activities and relaxing walks along the shore. Take a scenic drive at the Ratagan Pass, a short drive away, or follow the Kintail and Morvich Trails, many starting right near Shiel Bridge. We list 35 campsites within 30 miles of Shiel Bridge, and our Shiel Bridge campsite locations include campsites in Lochcarron, campsites in Lochailort, campsites in Invergarry and campsites in Cannich.

Eilean Donan is a small island positioned at the meeting point of three sea lochs - Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh—in the western Highlands of Scotland. The island is popular for its iconic castle and proximity to the Kintail National Scenic Area, making it a popular holiday destination. Book a campsite in Eilean Donan and explore its mediaeval castle at its heart. The ancient fortress is one of the most photographed landmarks in Scotland, and the area around the castle is ideal for picnics. Several walking paths around Eilean Donan boast panoramic views of the castle, the lochs, and the rugged Highland landscape. Potter around the lochs with field glasses to observe various bird species like herons, ospreys and seabirds or gaze at the shimmering waters for otters and seals. Launch a boat in the lochs or explore nearby attractions like the Isle of Skye and Plockton. Find your perfect camping base from our selection of 37 campsites within 30 miles of Eilean. We also offer more campsites in Portree, campsites in Isle of Skye, campsites in Mallaig and campsites in Portnaluchaig.

Best campsites at Kintail

We have your back if you’re wondering where to set up camp on your road trip to the Kintail National Scenic Area. We have selected three well-rated and scenic camping locations in the Kintail area with stunning views, easy access to hiking paths, and a peaceful setting ideal for retreating into nature. Moyle Park Campsite in Shiel Bridge is an excellent base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Glenshiel Campsite is perfect for a true Highland escape with effortless access to hikes and walks in the surrounding mountains plus countryside. Reraig Camping in Isle Of Skye enjoys a fab position on the shores of Loch Alsh. Read on to see if these campsites work for you.

Moyle Park Campsite in Shiel Bridge

Moyle Park Campsite, Shiel Bridge

Moyle Park Campsite is a charming, family-run location located near the village of Glenelg in the Scottish Highlands. The campsite is nestled in a tranquil valley, offering a peaceful setting with gorgeous views of the surrounding hills. The site is well-equipped, providing amenities like toilets, showers, and barbecues on the pitches, making it a comfortable base for exploring the area. One of Moyle Park's key attractions is its proximity to the Kintail National Scenic Area, a short drive away. This makes it an ideal spot for hikers and nature lovers keen to explore the area's renowned Five Sisters of Kintail and other breathtaking trails.

Glenshiel Campsite in Shiel Bridge

Glenshiel Campsite, Shiel Bridge"

Camping at Glenshiel Campsite in Shiel Bridge ideal a truly immersive Highland experience. Nestled in the heart of Glen Shiel, this campsite provides all the essential amenities, including clean showers, toilets, and washing-up facilities, making it a comfortable base for adventurers. Surrounded by towering mountains and just a stone’s throw from Loch Duich, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with the famous Five Sisters of Kintail and Eilean Donan Castle nearby. Whether you're keen to explore the rugged landscapes or enjoy peaceful lochside views, Glenshiel is an ideal spot for reconnecting with nature in one of Scotland’s most stunning regions.

Reraig Camping in Isle Of Skye

Reraig Camping, Isle Of Skye

Reraig Camping, located on the Isle of Skye, is a relaxed campsite offering a peaceful retreat for campers. Situated near Balmacara, just off the A87, it is ideally positioned for those looking to explore Skye and the mainland in your campervan. The campsite provides essential amenities, including clean showers, toilets, and washing facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Reraig Camping is particularly appealing owing to its stunning vistas of Loch Alsh and the surrounding hills, which create a scenic backdrop for a relaxing getaway. Its proximity to the Kintail National Scenic Area, just a 20-minute drive away, makes it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the dramatic landscapes of Kintail, including the famous Five Sisters of Kintail, and enjoy easy access to nearby attractions like Eilean Donan Castle and the picturesque village of Plockton.

Kintail Kayakin

The lochs and rivers in the Kintail National Scenic Area offer a range of enjoyable and scenic outdoor activities for all ages. Loch Duich and Loch Cluanie are fantastic for canoeing, kayaking, and paddling, all while admiring the beautiful surroundings from the water. Loch Duich is larger than Loch Cluanie, yet both are ideal for water-based frolics.

Loch Duich is quite popular with anglers, offering excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for trout and salmon. Nearby rivers like Shiel and Affric are also great for days out with your fishing rod, however, you may need a fishing permit, so check local regulations. If you're rumbling about with a boating vessel or want to hire a small motorboat, head over to larger lochs like Loch Duich, which is ideal for sailing. Check local regulations and rental options before you go. Some local operators offer guided boat trips, a perfect way to explore the waters and learn about the area's natural and cultural history while soaking in the views from a different angle. There are plenty of beautiful river walks along the river in Glen Shiel, along Glen Affric's rivers and lochs. Always prioritise wearing life jackets, ensure you have the necessary permits, and respect wildlife and their habitats.

The Kintail National Scenic Area is a rich habitat for varied wildlife, and there are several key spots to observe these wild and beautiful creatures in their natural environment. Glen Shiel, surrounded by rugged mountains, is a fab spot to see red deer, golden eagles, and mountain hares. Loch Duich and Loch Cluanie boast a thriving population of osprey, water birds, and otters, while Glen Affric is home to red and roe deer, golden eagles and buzzards. Spot the high-altitude birds, Ptarmigan, at Sgùrr na Cìche and the Five Sisters Ridge, or head to the forested areas and woodlands for red deer and birds like woodpeckers, crossbills, and various small songbirds. Wildlife is often more active during the early morning and late evening, so plan your outings for better chances of sightings. Move quietly and maintain a safe distance from animals to avoid disturbing their natural behaviour.

The region also features several historic sites like Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland's most iconic castles dating back to the 13th century. Explore the castle's history, strategic importance, and stunning location on a small island. The Old Bridge of Cluanie, near the Cluanie Inn at the head of Glen Shiel, is a historic stone bridge that has been an important crossing point for centuries. The Stone Circle at Glen Shiel is an ancient stone circle that provides a glimpse into the region's prehistoric past and is a must for history buffs. Head off the beaten path to marvel at the Black Falls (Falls of Glomach), accessible from a trail that begins near the village of Morvich. We also recommend the Remains of Highland Crofts, which can be found throughout the Kintail area, and offer a look at the historical way of life in the Highlands. The Jacobite History of Glen Shiel has several historical plaques and local lore, providing a deeper insight into this turbulent period in Scottish history. If you are following the Affric-Kintail Way, various historic sites and landscapes speak of the area's cultural and historical evolution. Visitor centres and local guides can provide additional details about lesser-known historic sites and their significance.

With its dramatic mountain landscapes, serene lochs, and charming historic sites, our flexible itinerary allows our readers to craft an adventure at their own pace. Let Kintail's breathtaking scenery and rich heritage captivate and entice you to return.

Tent Camping at Kintail National Scenic Area

Loch Duich. Chris IrenicRhonda

Our blogs may be aimed at campervan and motorhome travel. However, that does not mean we’ve forgotten our traditional campers keen to bunk under canvas. The Wee Campsite, a small and peaceful site in the village of Lochcarron, rests on the banks of Loch Carron and boasts far-reaching views out towards the Attadale hills and beyond. Local amenities like shops, pubs and restaurants are a leisurely 5-minute stroll away, and the site provides basic amenities, including clean toilets, showers, and washing-up facilities. Each touring pitch has a power outlet, and the site is a fantastic viewpoint in a peaceful location surrounded by nature. Adam, the owner, is welcoming and happy to provide any advice. There is plenty of space, and the campsite is well-located for the NC500 route.

Applecross Campsite is a well-laid-out and exceptionally maintained camping space located on the way to the quiet coastal village of Applecross. The campsite is open and green, providing wonderful views of the enclosing area, and contains mostly grass pitches for tents and touring vehicles. Take your pick from the various pitches in different fields for tents, small campervans, motorhomes and caravans, and enjoy access to upgraded facilities, including toilets, showers, electric metres, and a laundry area. A short walk into Applecross is ideal for accessing the local pub and sorting snacks courtesy of the fish and chips van.

Caravan Camping at Kintail National Scenic Area

Caravan camping is perfect for our readers who want to leave their “home’ behind as they explore the Kintail National Scenic Area by car. Kinloch Campsite is a stunning, family-friendly site in a former croft at the head of the beautiful Loch Dunvegan. The site is overlooked by the MacLeods Tables, two flat-topped hills looming over the landscape. Guests are perched right on the shores of the loch, providing unrivalled, uninterrupted views of the landscape and the varied birds that call this tidal waters home. Seals are often visible in the water, too. This family-friendly site has facilities for tents, caravans and motorhomes.

Glenshiel Campsite is another stunning space for parking a caravan. The site is spacious, peaceful and well-maintained, with updated showers and toilets. The location makes it a fantastic base for walkers and hikers, with plenty of munros, corbetts, and flat walks, all within a short drive. A lovely location just off the A87 ensures plenty of scenic drives for guests adventuring in cars or campers. Tents and touring vehicles are also welcome, and standard amenities are available.

Campervan at Kintail National Scenic Area Price

Finding a campervan in the Kintail National Scenic Area has always been challenging. We’ve got a range of campervans and motorhomes for hire in and around the Kintail NSA, starting at £80 per night. Use our straightforward booking system to find a campervan by postcode, town or county. Alternatively, let the system find the closest private campervan owners near you based on your current location. Our private campervan and motorhome owners are vetted to ensure a comfortable, stress-free booking process. Browse through the campervan images plus features, and send out a few inquiries to secure the most competitive rates.

Best Campervan Road Trip Kintail National Scenic Area

Loch Duich. LornaRphoto

If you’re searching for a campervan hire location within the Kintail National Scenic Area, fear not; we have three handy spots with plenty of campervan hire options. We recommend finding a campervan in Portree, Strathcarron and Lochcarron, three well-positioned locations for accessing the Kintail Area in an hour or less. For those planning a broader Scottish adventure, combining campervan hire Isle of Skye with these mainland options creates the perfect opportunity to explore both the mystical island and the rugged Highland landscapes in one unforgettable journey. Use our search engine to filter your campervan hire locations by county, town, or postcode. We also have a fab feature that filters the closest campervan owners near your current location. Finding a campervan in the Kintail National Scenic Area has never been easier. Visit our campervan page for more campervans in UK.

Portree, the captivating capital of the Isle of Skye, is a fantastic base to hire a campervan. Located about a 45-minute drive from the Kintail National Scenic Area, the town is a tremendous centre-point for uncovering the natural beauty of both Skye and Kintail. Portree, a picturesque harbour, provides top-notch opportunities for hiking, with nearby trails like Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr showcasing the best of the dramatic scenery. A waterfront location provides a serene setting for relaxing strolls and the chance to spot marine life like seals, dolphins and seabirds. Combine the rugged beauty of the Isle of Skye with the majestic landscapes of Kintail with a campervan hire in Portree. Our campervan hire locations in Portree include campervans for hire in Kyle Of Lochalsh, campervans for hire in Isle of Raasay and campervans for hire in Portnaluchaig.

Strathcarron, a pretty village in the Scottish Highlands, rests about 30 miles from the Kintail National Scenic Area and is a stunning gateway to various outdoor attractions. Tucked in the lush Strathcarron valley, the roads in and around this little village boast breathtaking views of the enclosing mountains, including the nearby Torridon Range. The outdoorsy types can spend hours hiking and mountain biking on trails that wind through the lush, often empty landscape. Follow the Fuar Tholl walking route, or enjoy a day of kayaking and fishing on Loch Carron. Our Strathcarron campervan hire locations include campervans for hire in Gairloch, campervans for hire Cannich, and campervans for hire in Dundonnell.

Lochcarron is a lovely little village on the west coast of Scotland, around a 30-minutes from the Kintail National Scenic Area. Tucked on the shores of Loch Carron, the settlement is a great base for nature enthusiasts, who can hike nearby hills like Beinn Damh and Attadale Gardens and admire gorgeous vistas of the enclosing landscapes. The village is a fantastic base for admiring local wildlife like seals, otters, and diverse bird species that call the loch and its fringes home. Anglers can cast a line at tranquil spots along the loch while walkers follow the Lochcarron Heritage Trail that winds through scenic areas and past historic sites. Hire a campervan in Lochcarron and combine holidays to the Kintail National Scenic Area, with a day of adventure at the picturesque village. Our campervan hire locations in Lochcarron include campervans for hire in Shiel Bridge, campervans for hire in Achnasheen and campervans for hire in Mallaig.

Loch Shiel to The Kintail National Scenic Area

And there you have it. A detailed yet flexible itinerary for a campervan road trip to the Kintail National Scenic Area, complete with top spots for camping in and around the Kintail Area. We’ve also included several spots for campervan hires for our readers starting their Scottish Highlands road trip in Kintail. Stay tuned for our final stop in the Itinerary for a Campervan Road Trip in the Scottish Highlands - the unmissable Isle of Skye. A new itinerary is coming soon, so stay tuned.