Fairy Glen Falls, Easter Ross & Black Isle

Waterfalls in Easter Ross & Black Isle

CC BY-SA 2.0 / David Maclennan

Fairy Glen Falls is a woodland waterfall walk in Easter Ross & Black Isle, Scotland, just outside Rosemarkie. It is a small nature reserve where a stream cuts through a steep-sided glen of oak, ash, and birch, with footpaths leading past two waterfalls.

The place is best known for its short, atmospheric walk rather than a big viewpoint. Visitors usually notice the shaded trees, mossy banks, bridges, and the change in the stream as it drops over the falls. It suits people looking for a relaxed outing in nature, along with walkers comfortable on uneven ground and gentle slopes.

History and Significance of Fairy Glen Falls
Things to See and Do in Fairy Glen Falls
How to Get to Fairy Glen Falls
Practical Tips on Visiting Fairy Glen Falls
Where to Stay close to Fairy Glen Falls
Is Fairy Glen Falls Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Fairy Glen Falls

History and Significance of Fairy Glen Falls

The name “Fairy Glen” hints at the long-standing local folklore surrounding this peaceful woodland. For generations, the glen has been a place where people came to appreciate nature, hold small gatherings, or simply walk in the shade of its tall trees. The area’s ancient woodland is now protected, preserving its biodiversity and ensuring that its character remains intact for future visitors.

In earlier centuries, the glen provided fresh water to the village of Rosemarkie, and some historical remnants of the old waterworks can still be found near the paths. While its practical role in village life has faded, its cultural significance has only grown, becoming a valued place for recreation and quiet reflection.

Today, Fairy Glen Falls is managed as a nature reserve, offering a safe haven for wildlife and a beautiful setting for walkers. Its combination of natural beauty and local heritage makes it a special place within the Black Isle landscape.

Things to See and Do in Fairy Glen Falls

The main attraction is the pair of waterfalls reached by following the gently ascending footpath from the car park. The lower falls offer a tranquil scene where water slides over mossy rock, while the upper falls present a more dramatic cascade framed by trees and fern-covered slopes.

Along the way, visitors can enjoy the varied plant life, from ancient woodland species to seasonal wildflowers brightening the trail. Birds are plentiful, with chances to spot herons, buzzards, and woodland songbirds.

The trail itself is a highlight, with wooden bridges, shaded glades, and peaceful viewpoints that encourage slow, mindful walking. After exploring the glen, many visitors enjoy combining their walk with time spent in nearby Rosemarkie village or on the beach.

How to Get to Fairy Glen Falls

The nearest airport is Inverness Airport, located about 40 minutes away by car. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Easter Ross & Black Isle on Booking.com.

There is no direct train service to Rosemarkie, but travellers can connect to buses from Inverness after arriving by rail. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Fairy Glen Falls is easily reached by car, with a small dedicated car park offering around 10 spaces near the trailhead.

Practical Tips on Visiting Fairy Glen Falls

Best time to visit Fairy Glen Falls: Spring and autumn offer vibrant colours, but the glen is enjoyable year-round.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free; this is a public nature reserve.
Opening hours: Open at all times, though best visited during daylight.
Official website: Look for Fairy Glen Reserve (Scottish Wildlife Trust) for updates.
How long to spend: Around 1-2 hours is perfect for a relaxed walk.
Accessibility: The trail includes uneven ground, slopes, and bridges; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Facilities: Public toilets are available in Rosemarkie village, about 250m away.
Photography tip: Visit after rainfall for the most powerful waterfall flow.
Guided tours: Typically self-guided; interpretation boards highlight key features.
Nearby food options: Cafés and pubs in Rosemarkie, including spots around the village centre.

Where to Stay close to Fairy Glen Falls

Visitors can base themselves in or near Rosemarkie for easy access to the glen. For a comfortable stay with sea views, consider The Anderson, just a short walk from Rosemarkie. Another nearby option is The Boat House, offering peaceful coastal accommodation. For those exploring more of the Black Isle, North Kessock Hotel provides a convenient location close to Inverness.

Is Fairy Glen Falls Worth Visiting?

Yes, Fairy Glen Falls is absolutely worth visiting. Its peaceful paths, enchanting waterfalls, and rich woodland atmosphere make it a refreshing escape for walkers and nature lovers. Whether you're staying on the Black Isle or exploring from Inverness, the glen offers a memorable blend of scenery, wildlife, and Highland charm.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (1,319)

Fairy Glen Falls in Rosemarkie is a scenic woodland river walk with two waterfalls reached via a mainly gentle but sometimes narrow and rugged path—wear sturdy boots and be prepared to ford shallow water in places; the route becomes trickier toward the upper fall and isn't suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. The small car park holds roughly 20 vehicles and can fill up, so arriving early helps, and there are no parking fees or tickets. A wooden bridge and stairs lead to the higher fall, with some platforms lacking outer railings, so take care if you're uneasy with heights.

wereholl

5 months ago

"Beautiful waterfalls with a fairly gentle walk, some slopes and quite narrow in places, not suitable for wheelchairs or people with mobility issuesunfortunately. If you go from the carpark the bridge is blocked but the water is quite shallow to cross in places. From the beach just follow the path. There's more falls behind the ones you first reach up some stairs and across a platform that has no outer railings so not for those with vertigo...."

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kerryo372

a month ago

"a lovely walk through the woods which leads to a ragged ascent , not suitable for bike . follow the path i went off and it took me the wrong way"

Jobson Jose

3 months ago

"Wonderful spot with narrow slops, unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. Its a 20 mins walking path for a steady walker. There’s two falls so dontstop at the first one !! The best part is there’s No parking fees and no tickets...."

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SCC1993

5 months ago

"Beautiful walk with the dog on a cold winters day. It took around one hour, we weren't in a rush and spent time taking photos too. Plenty of carparking spaces when we got there. Wear shoes you don't mind getting mucky!..."

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Sam Buckley

5 months ago

"Amazing river and waterfall with a scenic walk through the woodland. Would recommend wearing walking boots or similar as you may have to cross theriver by foot. Very beautiful scene. Wasn't extremely busy when I went...."

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NKay84

9 months ago

"It’s around 20-30 minute walk from the carpark. We got to the first bridge which was closed, I’m not sure how we are meant to get across otherwise.We did chance it and managed to get over it safely. The route from there isn’t too bad for able bodied people. There are a few big tree trunks you need to try to climb over but the end result is worth it. There is a second water fall a little further but I couldn’t make it any further due to my arthritis so I waited at the first waterfall whilst my daughter went up to the next one, nThere is a small carpark at the beginning of the trail which I did drive past first and had to turn back as it’s quite easy to miss. Carpark was free..."

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FAQs for Visiting Fairy Glen Falls

The trail is moderate, with some slopes and uneven sections, but manageable for most walkers.

Yes, there is a small car park with around 10 spaces near the trail entrance.

Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control.

No, but public toilets are available about 250 metres away in Rosemarkie.

Most visitors complete the circular route in 1-2 hours.

The Fairy Glen Falls appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Easter Ross & Black Isle!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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