Glen Affric is frequently referred to as "the most beautiful glen in Scotland" - and this is truly one of the most magical places I've ever been. I might even go so far as to say it's the most beautiful glen (valley) I've ever seen! It's deep in the Highlands with only one narrow road passing through it and it's largely undeveloped which has allowed it to remain pretty wild. The mighty River Affric rushes through the glen and is quite wide and powerful. There are numerous lochs, some very large, and countless waterfalls! The plants surrounding the trails are so interesting- providing a rainbow of color - a lot of deep reds, along with yellows and greens against the backdrop of the deep brown waters - just glorious! This glen holds the third largest area of ancient Caledonian pinewoods in Scotland, consisting mostly of Scots Pines which have grown here in some form or another since the last ice age! The Forestry Commission has worked hard to "rewild" the area with native plants and trees and root out the invasive species and its had marvelous results - native wildlife is thriving and the area is recovering from heavy tree harvesting activities of years past. We visited on an eco tour with the Rabbies tour company as the roads can be quite difficult for American drivers (lol) - the tour was fantastic and while we spent a good bit of time here, it just wasn't enough bc it was so amazing. But we had plenty of time for a few hikes and some exploring. And we even saw some wandering sheep on the way out that apparently weren't supposed to be that deep into the woods haha! We stopped and did a short hike around Dog Falls but moved on and spent most of our time at the end of the maintained road where there's parking and picnic tables and some really great trails. The first trail we did took us up to the Memorial Cairn for expansive 360 degree views - fairly easy hike - some incline and muddy but doable. Trails are all surprisingly well maintained. The views are dramatic and words could never do them justice! We also did another short hike down by the rushing River Affric - easy and so worth it. If you're in the Highlands and able to visit Glen Affric, I can't recommend it enough! It's pretty close to Inverness and so worth it! read more

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