Top 11 Waterfalls around Fort Augustus And Glenmoriston

The waterfalls in this region are known for their diverse characteristics, ranging from dramatic vertical cascades like Plodda Falls, which plunges 46 meters through towering Douglas firs, to powerful river falls and secluded woodland cascades. Many are set within ancient woodlands and deep gorges, offering stunning natural beauty.

Yes, several waterfalls have historical significance. The Falls of Foyers have been a popular tourist destination since the 18th century, admired by figures like Robert Burns. Divach Falls was a Victorian-era attraction, with a painting even displayed in Buckingham Palace. Invermoriston Falls features a historic stone bridge built by Scottish civil engineer Thomas Telford in 1813.

Visitors appreciate the dramatic natural spectacles and the serene woodland settings. For instance, the viewpoint platform at Plodda Falls offers a 'heart-stopping' view directly down the 46-meter drop. Many also enjoy the well-maintained trails and the opportunity to spot wildlife like red squirrels or Highland cattle.

Plodda Falls is renowned for its striking wooden viewing platform that juts out over the top of the 46-meter cascade, providing a dizzying perspective straight down into the Abhainn Deabhag river. There's also a viewing area at the bottom.

Lady Falls, also known as Culachy Falls, near Fort Augustus, is a lesser-known but impressive waterfall. It offers a quieter alternative to more frequented spots, with a 20-meter drop into a shallow pond within a charming woodland setting. It's considered a 'secret' waterfall by some locals.

Invermoriston Falls, located in the village of Invermoriston, is a beautiful series of cascades on the River Moriston. It features a historic stone bridge built by Thomas Telford and a stone summer house where visitors can shelter and watch salmon leap in the river, particularly when the upstream dams are opened on Tuesdays.

Many waterfalls in the region are most impressive after heavy rainfall, when the water flow is powerful. The Falls of Foyers, for example, are famous for their grandeur and mist after rain. Divach Falls also varies significantly, from a gentle trickle to a roaring torrent, depending on recent rainfall. Tuesdays are particularly recommended for Invermoriston Falls, as upstream dams are opened, resulting in a more powerful display.

Yes, parking is generally available. The Falls of Foyers has a paid car park with a shop and café, as well as free parking options nearby. Divach Falls has a small car park that can accommodate a few cars, making it easily accessible for visitors.

You can expect a variety of trails. The path to the Falls of Foyers can be steep in sections but is well-maintained and considered easy to reach, even for children. Plodda Falls offers well-maintained trails ideal for hikers. Divach Falls has an easy-to-access trail from its small parking area. Some walks, like to Lady Falls, can be circular routes through pastures and woodland.

Yes, several waterfalls are suitable for families. The path to the Falls of Foyers is considered easy to reach for children, despite some steep sections. Divach Falls is also categorized as family-friendly, with opportunities to see animals like sheep and Highland cattle on the way to the falls.

The Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston area offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Loch Garry loop from Invermoriston', and mountain biking trails like 'Above Loch Ness — a loop from Invermoriston'. There are also gravel biking options, including the 'Plodda Falls – View of Affric Lodge loop'. You can explore more routes in the Road Cycling, MTB Trails, and Gravel Biking guides for the region.

The Falls of Foyers, located on the south side of Loch Ness, are known in Scottish Gaelic as 'Eas na Smùide,' meaning 'smoking falls.' This name comes from the significant mist created by the powerful water flow, especially after heavy rainfall, as the river plunges 144 feet over two sets of falls.