When you think of Scotland, waterfalls may not be the first thing that springs to mind.
As a country that is fiercely proud of its culture, this northern part of the UK is perhaps most associated with kilts, shortbread, whisky, tartan, and the Loch Ness Monster.
But as for nature’s bounty, Scotland more than provides – and spectacular cascading waterfalls are just one of the many delights associated with this land.
For those planning a trip and looking to prioritise nature’s wonders, we look at the 10 best waterfalls in Scotland for your 2024 adventures.
Table of contents
- 10 Best Waterfalls in Scotland
- 1. Black Spout Waterfall, Pitlochry
- 2. Eas a’ Chuil Aluinn Waterfall, Sutherland
- 3. Eas Dubh a’ Ghlinne Ghairbh, Wester Ross
- 4. Hallaig Falls, Isle of Raasay
- 5. Greenock Cut Waterfall, Inverclyde
- 6. Grey Mare’s Tail & Loch Skeen, Dumfries & Galloway
- 7. Linn of Ruthrie Falls, Moray Speyside
- 8. Loup of Fintry, Fintry
- 9. Plodda Falls & Dog Falls, Cannich
- 10. Ramnahol Waterfall, Shetland
- Highest Waterfalls in Scotland
- Fairy Waterfalls in Scotland
- Waterfall Walks
- Getting Around in Rural Scotland
- Best Waterfalls in Scotland: FAQs
- More Scotland Posts
- Pin Waterfalls in Scotland
10 Best Waterfalls in Scotland
Not unlike snowflakes, waterfalls are unique, and there are no two alike. Because of this, it’s hard to choose which waterfalls are the ‘best’, as they’re all beautiful and mesmerising in their own special ways.
However, because it’s near impossible to tour all of the waterfalls in Scotland in one trip, we’ve put together a list of our personal favourites which need to be added to your bucket list right now!
1. Black Spout Waterfall, Pitlochry
Located in Highland Perthshire, Black Spout Waterfall can be found in the delightful holiday town of Pitlochry.
As a popular walking spot, visitors can enjoy the foliage of the waterfall (which is particularly incredible in the autumn time) while trundling along the Moulin Path.
Thirsty? Why not pick up a bottle of the good stuff at the nearby Blair Atholl Distillery?
2. Eas a’ Chuil Aluinn Waterfall, Sutherland
Not only is the Eas a’ Chuil Aluinn Waterfall the tallest in Scotland, but it’s the tallest in the UK (and even beats Niagara Falls in terms of height), making it a must for your outdoorsy adventure.
Visitors to the nearby Loch na Gainmhich can take a short detour to this incredible waterfall or the neighbouring Wailing Widow Falls. As for a walking route, though, this one is recommended for more experienced hikers.
3. Eas Dubh a’ Ghlinne Ghairbh, Wester Ross
Located in Gruinard Bay in The Highlands, Eas Dubh a’ Ghlinne Ghairbh, which translates to ‘the black falls of the rough glen’ in Gaelic will have even the most seasoned traveller in awe, and the beauty of the bay itself will blow your mind.
This waterfall is in the vicinity of several delightful beaches nearby – for those who want to make a day of it.
4. Hallaig Falls, Isle of Raasay
Scotland is dotted with so many wonderful islands, it can be hard to know where to start, but those visiting the Isle of Raasay, which is part of the Hebridean Isles, can take in the stunning Hallaig Falls, which boast views of the nearby Cuillin Mountains – the highest point of The Highlands.
As well as this, Raasay is a famous malt whisky location, and visitors can enjoy an afternoon at the Isle of Rasaay Distillery.
5. Greenock Cut Waterfall, Inverclyde
As an extension of the River Clyde, Greenock Cut is adjacent to the nearby aqueduct of the same name, and is part of the regional park’s moorland, making it one stunning sight after another.
At the end of the cut is the waterfall itself, which pours into a beautiful pool area – ideal for those wanting to cool their feet after a long hike!
6. Grey Mare’s Tail & Loch Skeen, Dumfries & Galloway
For the more experienced hiker, Grey Mare’s Tale is a must. Located in the Moffat area of D&G, the namesake of this waterfall is easy to understand at first glance.
Surrounding the waterfall are the peaks of Mid Craig, Lochcraig Head, and Corbett of White Coomb. This hike is steep and care must be taken near the ravine.
7. Linn of Ruthrie Falls, Moray Speyside
Located in the Charlestown of Aberlour area of Moray Speyside, Linn of Ruthrie Falls is so magical that you half expect a trio of beautiful sirens to be bathing here.
Not only is this location ideal for those who love to throw in a good hike during their visit, but trekkers can enjoy the gentle woodland path and a cheeky dram at the nearby Aberlour Distillery!
8. Loup of Fintry, Fintry
Don your best wellies, for the Loup of Fintry footpath can be a tad muddy at times – but is 100% worth it.
Located in the Campsie Fells region, this dramatic 94-foot waterfall is linked to the Endrick Water, which trickles along the Stirlingshire countryside and will eventually lead you to Loch Lomond.
For those enjoying a waterfall walk, the footpath is signposted, so chances of getting lost are slim.
9. Plodda Falls & Dog Falls, Cannich
Combining mountain, loch, and riverside, this iconic duo holds a particular soft spot for locals, and it’s easy to see why.
Shrouded by a thicket of fragrant pine trees, visitors can take in not one but two waterfalls, as well as look out for the local birdlife, including crossbills, ospreys, wood warblers, and the plethora of other little songbirds bobbing about.
10. Ramnahol Waterfall, Shetland
Shetland isn’t just famous for its floofy, adorable ponies. Oh no. It’s also the home of the dramatic gushing Ramnahol Waterfall, which is known to locals as ‘the pool of the ravens’.
Located between Aith and East Burrafirth in mainland Shetland, this area is ideal for an easy-level walk/hike. Visitors can enjoy the nearby Loch Lunklet, as well as stop for a warm drink and a slice of cake at The Original Fridge Cake & Tea Shop.
Highest Waterfalls in Scotland
For a truly jaw-dropping experience, visiting the highest waterfalls in Scotland is an absolute must.
The tallest offerings include:
- Eas a’ Chual Aluinn, 200 meters (highest in the UK)
- Steall Waterfall, 120 meters
- Falls of Glomach, 113 meters
Fairy Waterfalls in Scotland
Anything with the word ‘fairy’ in the title has gotta be pretty magical, right?!
Lovers of Gaelic mythology will know that folklore and faelore are strong parts of the culture, with the names of numerous places nodding to these mystical legends.
One such place is the Fairy Waterfalls in Dunvegan, otherwise known as the Fairy Pools, which can be found on the Isle of Skye. Although this collection of waterfalls is relatively small, as waterfalls go (the tallest being only 7 meters), they are a sight to behold.
Rife with mystical history and considered a ‘natural waterfall phenomenon’, these frolic-worthy pools can be found in the Glen Brittle area of the island, standing out among the greens, browns, and greys of their natural surrounding with their bright aqua-blue waters.
As well as being a wonderful place to enjoy a spot of wild swimming (if you can brave the chilly Scottish water temperatures!), lovers of local wildlife can keep their peepers peeled for the ‘regulars’ (red deer, Highland sheep, rabbits, plovers, and puffins).
Waterfall Walks
Taking in a waterfall or two while hiking can be a glorious respite from the steep landscapes of rural Scotland.
Irrespective of your level of hiking experience, there will be at least one waterfall walk you can enjoy in Scotland, including:
Level: Easy
- Linn of Ruthrie Falls, Moray Speyside
- Ramnahol Waterfall, Shetland
- Eas Dubh a’ Ghlinne Ghairbh Waterfall, Wester Ross
- Black Spout Waterfall, Pitlochry
- Loup of Fintry, Fintry
- Greenock Cut, Inverclyde
Level: Moderate
- Plodda Falls & Dog Falls, Cannich
- Hallaig Falls, Isle of Raasay
- Glenashdale Falls, Isle of Arran
Level: Difficult
- Eas a’ Chuil Aluinn, Sutherland
- Greeto Falls, North Ayrshire
- Grey Mare’s Tail & Loch Skeen, Dumfries & Galloway
Getting Around in Rural Scotland
Most of Scotland’s glorious waterfalls are more than somewhat off the beaten track and public transport, biking, and walking may not be feasible, so we strongly recommend hiring a vehicle to get you to and from these locations.
When visiting Scotland, some of the best car rental companies include:
Best Waterfalls in Scotland: FAQs
The tallest waterfall in Scotland is the Eas a’ Chual Aluinn in the Sutherland area of The Highlands.
Featuring a knuckle-biting drop of approximately 658 ft (200 m), not only is this waterfall the tallest in Scotland but is the tallest in the whole of the UK.
Although most natives speak English as their first language, Scotland’s native tongue, Gaelic, is still a prominent part of the culture. Therefore, waterfalls have their own name: ‘Eas’.
Skye is a hotbed of waterfall action, with over 10 beautiful cascades to stare in awe at. Perhaps the most spectacular of all is the Mealt Waterfall of Kilt Rock, which pours dramatically into the North Sea from its 55-metre drop.
There most certainly are. You don’t have to traipse to the far tropical corners of the world to enjoy a waterfall or two. Some of the most incredible waterfalls in Scotland include:
– Plodda Falls, Cannich
– Falls of Falloch, Stirling
– Wailing Widow Falls, Loch Na Gainmhich
– Mealt Falls, Isle of Skye
– Falls of Glomach, Ross-shire
Despite being a relatively small country, Scotland boasts over 150 waterfalls, owing to much of the land being a wet climate. Many of these waterfalls can be found in the Highland or Hebridean areas.
More Scotland Posts
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- 10 Best Waterfalls in Scotland for 2024 Adventures
- Hopetoun House: Outlander, History, & More
- Things to Do at Loch Lubnaig: Your 2024 Guide
- Best Places to Stay on the Isle of Skye: Our Top Picks
- Exploring Keiss Castle in Scotland: A Guide
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