Tucked away in the north-west Highlands, Kintail is one of Scotland’s most spectacular and untouched landscapes. Part of the UNESCO Wester Ross Biosphere, this region combines dramatic mountains, tranquil lochs and ancient glens to create one of the country’s most unforgettable motorhome touring destinations. It is a place where every turn in the road reveals a new view, where wildlife thrives, and where the pace of life slows to match the rhythm of the land itself.
For travellers setting out in a motorhome or campervan, Kintail offers the perfect combination of remoteness and accessibility. The main A87 road passes right through the heart of the glen, connecting Invergarry to the Isle of Skye, but despite this link it has managed to retain its wild and untouched feel. Whether you are drawn by its legendary ridge walks, its rich cultural history or simply its stillness, Kintail is an essential stop on any Highlands itinerary.
What Makes the Wester Ross Biosphere Special
In 2016, UNESCO designated Wester Ross as a Biosphere Reserve, recognising its outstanding natural environment and the communities that live within it. The concept of a biosphere is about more than conservation; it is about balance. It celebrates the way people and nature can coexist sustainably, supporting livelihoods while protecting the landscapes and ecosystems that make the area so unique.
The Wester Ross Biosphere covers more than 5,000 square kilometres, stretching from the rugged coastlines of Torridon to the mountains of Kintail. Within its boundaries you will find some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery: towering peaks, ancient woodlands, remote beaches and small crofting communities that have shaped and been shaped by the land for centuries.
Kintail forms the dramatic eastern gateway to this region. It is an area defined by mountains such as Beinn Fhada, Ciste Dhubh and the famous Five Sisters of Kintail. These ridges rise sharply from sea level, forming a striking backdrop to Glen Shiel and the nearby Loch Duich. This is classic Highland scenery at its most cinematic, and for many visitors it represents the very essence of Scotland.
Exploring by Motorhome
Travelling by motorhome or campervan allows visitors to experience Kintail in the most flexible and immersive way possible. The drive through Glen Shiel is one of the great Scottish road journeys, with mountains on both sides and a sense of scale that photographs can rarely capture. Having your accommodation with you means you can stop wherever the scenery inspires you, taking your time to explore at your own pace.
One of the best aspects of motorhome travel in this area is the ability to combine remote exploration with comfort. Go Explore’s modern motorhomes come fully equipped with heating, cooking facilities, and comfortable sleeping areas, making them perfectly suited for a region where weather can change quickly. You can spend the day hiking ridge lines or visiting historic landmarks and then return to warmth, a meal and a quiet view from your window.
The Five Sisters of Kintail
Perhaps the most famous landmark in the region, the Five Sisters of Kintail are a series of striking peaks that dominate the skyline west of Glen Shiel. According to legend, the mountains were formed when five sisters were turned to stone while waiting for their suitors to return from Ireland. The ridge connecting these peaks forms one of the most impressive hillwalking routes in Scotland, with panoramic views over Loch Duich and towards Skye.
Even if you are not a climber, the mountains are an unforgettable sight from the roadside. Early morning or late afternoon light creates shifting colours across the slopes, and after rain, waterfalls appear in the gullies, adding to the sense of drama. For photographers, this stretch of the A87 provides countless opportunities to capture Scotland’s raw Highland beauty.
Historic Landmarks and Local Culture
Just a short drive from Kintail lies Eilean Donan Castle, one of Scotland’s most photographed buildings. Sitting on a small tidal island at the meeting point of three lochs, the castle dates back to the 13th century and has been carefully restored. Visitors can tour the interior, learning about the Mackenzie and MacRae clans who defended the region, or simply enjoy the view from the nearby bridge. The castle’s silhouette against the mountains of Kintail is a scene recognised around the world.
The nearby village of Shiel Bridge serves as a small hub for travellers. It offers a campsite, a shop and access to several hiking trails. The Glen Shiel Battle Site, where Jacobite forces clashed with government troops in 1719, lies nearby, providing a tangible link to Scotland’s turbulent history.
Further west, the road continues to Dornie and Kyle of Lochalsh, both ideal stops for supplies before heading towards Skye. For those exploring the area more deeply, detours north to Loch Carron or west to the Applecross Peninsula reveal quieter corners of the Wester Ross Biosphere, with winding coastal roads and traditional crofting landscapes.
Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Kintail is rich in wildlife, and patient visitors are often rewarded with sightings of red deer, golden eagles and pine martens. The lochs and rivers support salmon and trout, while the coastlines of nearby Loch Duich and Loch Alsh are home to seals and otters. Birdwatchers will find a variety of species, particularly in spring and autumn when migratory birds pass through the Highlands.
Autumn, in particular, is a magical time to visit. The slopes of the mountains turn gold and rust, the air feels crisp, and the light has a clarity that enhances every view. This is also one of the quieter times of year, offering peaceful days on the road and uncrowded walks on even the most popular trails.
Responsible Travel in the Biosphere
Because Kintail sits within a UNESCO Biosphere, responsible travel is an important part of the experience. Visitors are encouraged to use designated campsites or recognised overnight stops rather than wild camping. Local facilities such as Shiel Bridge Campsite or sites around Loch Carron offer convenient access to services while supporting local businesses.
Travelling responsibly also means being aware of waste disposal, minimising noise, and respecting the natural environment. The Wester Ross Biosphere promotes a “leave no trace” approach, ensuring the landscape remains pristine for future generations. Buying local food, crafts or services helps sustain the small communities that make this part of Scotland so distinctive.
Practical Travel Tips
For those beginning their journey from Glasgow, Kintail is around four and a half hours by road, depending on route and stops. The A82 north through Fort William provides a scenic drive along Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor and the Great Glen before joining the A87 at Invergarry. From there, the landscape opens into the mountains of Glen Shiel.
When planning a motorhome trip, allow at least two nights in the Kintail area to truly appreciate it. This gives time for a full day’s exploration, whether that means hiking, photography, or simply relaxing by the loch. The weather can change rapidly, so flexible plans and good waterproof gear are essential.
Fuel stations are limited in this region, so it’s sensible to fill up in Fort William, Kyle of Lochalsh or Inverness depending on your direction of travel. Mobile coverage can be patchy, which is part of the charm but worth considering when using navigation apps or booking campsites.
Why Kintail Captures the Spirit of Scotland
There are places in Scotland that feel like a postcard, and there are places that feel like the real thing. Kintail belongs to the latter category. It combines wild beauty, deep history and genuine solitude, yet it is easily accessible for those travelling by motorhome. You can stand among mountains that seem to belong to another world and still find yourself only a short drive from friendly villages and welcoming campsites.
For many travellers, the Wester Ross Biosphere represents the essence of what makes Scotland special: landscapes that inspire awe, communities that live in balance with nature, and the sense of freedom that comes from the open road. Kintail, with its towering peaks and glens, is the perfect place to experience that balance first-hand.
A journey here is not just about the scenery. It is about slowing down, breathing deeply, and rediscovering the connection between people and place. Whether it’s your first motorhome trip or your tenth, Kintail offers something timeless - a reminder that the true heart of Scotland lies in its wild spaces, waiting to be explored.