5 spectacular waterfalls to visit along the NC500
Known for our changeable and unpredictable weather, there’s no denying Scotland has a lot of water! As well as keeping our ancient forests lush and green, it also powers the rivers and burns that feed in to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the country. You’ll see plenty of waterfalls on your trip around the North Coast 500, but here’s a few we think shouldn’t be missed!
Falls of Shin
A wild Atlantic Salmon leaping up the Falls of Shin
The thundering Falls of Shin is famous for being one of the best places in the Highlands to watch the majestic Atlantic Salmon leap upstream. Watch from the viewing platform as they attempt to leap clear of the water, and enjoy amazing views both up and down the River Shin. Be sure to pop in to the café and gift shop for a coffee and cake, and local Scottish gifts, or experience the delicious food the local natural larder has to offer with a meal at Mac and Wild’s Scottish restaurant.
The Ugly Hollow
Canyoneering at Corrieshalloch Gorge with Kayak Summer Isles
This mile-long box canyon may take its name for the Gaelic for ‘ugly hollow’ but it’s one of the most spectacular gorges of its type in Britain. Cut by Ice Age glacial meltwater, over 2.6 billion years ago, the River Droma forged its way through the Corrieshalloch Gorge, dramatically dropping 100 metres in just 1.25km through a series of waterfalls, including the thunderous 45m high Falls of Measach. Thrill seekers can view the thundering torrents from a Victorian suspension bridge above or join Kayak Summer Isles for a canyoneering expedition to explore the gorge itself!
Rogie Falls
Rogie Falls on the Black Water
Another impressive set of falls to watch wild salmon leap is Rogie Falls, just outside Contin. Aided by the man-made salmon ladder which bypasses the main cascade, the salmon reach the top of the falls and head on up the river to their spawning grounds. Learn more about their journey at the viewing platform before stepping out over the water on to the suspension bridge to see the falls face-on. Continue along the trail beside the river to follow the salmon’s journey upstream.
Please Note: The bridge at Rogie Falls, which is managed by Highland Council, is currently closed for safety reasons. The waymarked paths and viewpoints remain open.
The Magical Fairy Glen
Fairy Glen (c) Finding the Universe
You might not spot any fairies when you visit the Fairy Glen in the Black Isle (they can be shy around us), but the magical broadleaf woodland and two stunning waterfalls will more than make up for it! This small nature reserve is the perfect place to relax and connect with nature, you might event spot a buzzard circling overhead or a grey heron stalking fish along the glittering stream.
Britain’s highest waterfall!
Eas A’Chual Aluinn, Britain’s highest waterfall
With a sheer drop of over 200m, Eas A’Chual Aluinn is the highest waterfall in Britain; and when in full flow, it’s over three times higher than Niagara Falls! A six mile hike takes you in to the heart of Assynt’s rocky landscape, past pretty lochans and streams to reach the best vantage point near the top of the falls.
