8 jaw-dropping Scottish waterfalls that you must see when travelling the country

While Scotland’s incessant rain is often a point of contention, it does bring about some unexpected perks that are often overlooked.

Without it, we wouldn’t be able to produce our world-famous national drink and our celebrated landscapes wouldn’t be as striking without the regular showers.

Indeed, some of our most beloved landmarks, including Scotland’s remarkable waterways, rivers and lochs, might not exist in sunnier climates. So, to remind us of our good fortune, we’ve taken a look at some of the nation’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye

Kicking off the list is one of Scotland’s most famous tourist hotspots and probably its best known waterfall. The Fairy Pools more than live up to their hype as one of the most stunning locations.

Located at the foot of Skye’s imposing Black Cuillins, near Glenbrittle, these mesmerising aquamarine pools formed by the River Brittle are perfectly named as their beauty is ethereal and otherworldly.

While there are many incredible pictures of this unique and jaw-dropping location, the Fairy Pools really have to be seen in person.

The Grey Mare’s Tail, near Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway

Another iconic waterfall, the Grey Mare’s Tail is part of a nature reserve in Dumfries and Galloway and is surrounded by incredible plant and animal life.

The fall itself has an impressive 200ft drop from Loch Skeen into the valley of the Moffat Water Valley below. When you view it in person, it is easy to see why the thin cascade of frothing water got its name.

Falls of Glomach, near Kintail, Highlands

Regarded as one of the UK’s most impressive falls – and its third tallest – the Falls of Glomach truly encapsulate the raw power of nature. The roaring white water winds its way through the lush green cliff face before plunging over 370ft to the river below.

As one of the country’s tallest falls, it may require a bit of a hike to reach, but the surrounding scenery and the breathtaking sight of the falls at the end are well worth the effort.

Black Linn Falls at The Hermitage, Dunkeld, Perthshire

The Hermitage in Dunkeld plays host to an array of breathtaking spectacles, not least the Black Linn Falls’ intense cascading waters.

Owned in the past by the Dukes of Atholl, the woodland is studded with towering Douglas Firs and features Ossian’s Hall, an intriguing folly making an ideal vantage point for watching the River Braan crash into the deep, churning pools below.

Its central location in Perthshire means The Hermitage is well within driving distance of all of Scotland’s major cities and is definitely worth a trip.

Steall Falls, Glen Nevis

The second tallest waterfall in Scotland (and the UK), the water at Steall Falls plummets an enormous 390ft. An Steall Bàn, which translates from Gaelic as ‘The White Spout’, can be viewed during a walk through the picturesque Nevis Gorge, near Fort William.

Like a number of beauty spots in the area – including the Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Sheil – Steall Falls features in the Harry Potter film series. The water can be seen in the background of a number of quidditch matches as well as Harry’s battle with the Hungarian Horntail during the Triwizard Tournament.

Linn of Quoich, near Ballater, Upper Deeside

The Linn of Quoich is said to have been a favourite spot for Queen Victoria during her frequent trips north to Scotland. Boasting one of Scotland’s most fascinating natural formations, it’s easy to see why.

Often referred to as the ‘Earl of Mar’s Punchbowl’, the rushing water has created a smooth, circular indentation in the flat rock beside the frenzied river near Ballater, providing a truly stunning sight.

Falls of Bruar, near Pitlochry, Perthshire

Close to the gorgeous town of Pitlochry you’ll find the Falls of Bruar – one of Scotland’s most famed scenic spots home to a series of captivating cascades. A stunning place to visit, the nearby House of Bruar provides the opportunity for some retail therapy too.

This Falls themselves were an inspiration to Robert Burns, inspiring him to pen a poem for the Duke of Atholl:

“Here, foaming down the skelvy rocks,
In twisting strength I rin;
There, high my boiling torrent smokes,
Wild-roaring o’er a linn.”

Loup of Fintry, near Stirling

After snaking through the Campsie Fells and Fintry Hills, the River Endrick creates a remarkable waterfall. With water being siphoned off to the Carron Reservoir, the 94ft falls at the Loup of Fintry have shrunk in recent years.

Despite this, they are a breathtaking sight, especially when viewed after prolonged rainfall or snow.

Don’t miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.