Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls, Isle of Skye

Waterfalls near Isle of Skye

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Herbert Frank

Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls form one of Skye's most breathtaking coastal viewpoints, where geology, sound, and scenery combine into a uniquely atmospheric experience. Rising 90 metres from the shoreline, Kilt Rock resembles a pleated kilt thanks to its vertical basalt columns and contrasting dolerite sills. Beside it, the Mealt Falls crash 100 metres down from the loch-fed Mealt River into the rocks below. The sound of the water plummeting to the shore creates an eerie whistle, especially noticeable on windy days, making this one of the top sights in the Isle of Skye.

The viewpoint sits high on the Trotternish Peninsula, offering sweeping Atlantic views and dramatic scenery at every turn. The easy access makes it a favourite stop for road trippers exploring northern Skye, and a quick visit still delivers a striking sense of Skye's wild beauty. This spot is one of the best places to see in the Isle of Skye if you want a dramatic coastal scene without a long walk.

History and Significance of Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Things to See and Do in Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
How to Get to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Practical Tips on Visiting Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Where to Stay close to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Is Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls
Nearby Attractions to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

History and Significance of Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock is a geological masterpiece formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity. As molten basalt cooled, it contracted into tall, vertical columns that resemble the pleats of a traditional Scottish kilt. Later intrusions of dolerite created darker horizontal bands, giving the cliff its iconic tartan-like pattern.

Mealt Falls emerges from Loch Mealt, plunging directly into the sea below. This free-falling waterfall is rare in Scotland and owes its dramatic appearance to the sheer drop of the cliff edge. The cliff-top viewpoint has become a popular place to appreciate how volcanic forces shaped Skye’s coastline.

The natural acoustics around the falls, particularly the haunting whistle produced on windy days, have added to the site’s fame. Many visitors describe the sound as resembling distant bagpipes, a fitting echo across this deeply Scottish landscape.

Things to See and Do in Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

The main attraction is simply enjoying the panoramic viewpoint. From the fenced overlook, you can admire the height and scale of Kilt Rock, its striking pleated structure, and the way Mealt Falls plunges in a single drop to the coast below. The effect is especially dramatic when the wind is high and the water spray dances in the air.

Wildlife lovers may spot seabirds soaring around the cliffs, while photographers will find endless angles capturing the basalt columns against the rugged shoreline. The viewpoint also offers excellent views along the Trotternish coastline, with layers of cliffs stretching into the distance.

Because the site requires no hiking, it can easily be combined with other northern Skye landmarks. The convenience and sheer visual drama make this one of the must-see places in the Isle of Skye for visitors short on time but eager for memorable scenery.

How to Get to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

The falls and viewpoint are located directly off the main A855 coast road on the Trotternish Peninsula. The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, which provides access to the Highlands before continuing toward Skye. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Skye on Booking.com.

Train services reach Kyle of Lochalsh, from where visitors can cross the Skye Bridge by bus or car to drive north along the A855. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Driving is the easiest way to reach Kilt Rock, with a signposted car park adjacent to the viewpoint. The stop is well suited to road trips around northern Skye.

Practical Tips on Visiting Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Suggested tips: Bring a windproof jacket; the cliffs can be very exposed.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Entrance fee: Free.
Opening hours: Always accessible.
Official website: Check VisitScotland for updates.
How long to spend: 15-30 minutes for photos and views.
Accessibility: The viewpoint is close to the car park with relatively flat access.
Facilities: Seasonal food trucks or vendors may appear; nearest full facilities are in Staffin.
Photography tip: After rain, the waterfall is more powerful and photogenic.
Guided tours: Often included in Skye sightseeing tours, but easy to visit independently.
Nearby food options: Staffin has cafes and small eateries within a short drive.

Where to Stay close to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Staffin is the nearest base, offering easy access to the Trotternish cliffs and coastal viewpoints. Consider Flodigarry Hotel for dramatic sea views just north of the site. Another comfortable option is Staffin House close to both Kilt Rock and other Trotternish attractions. For more amenities and dining options, The Portree Hotel works well as a central base.

Is Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls Worth Visiting?

Yes, Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls are absolutely worth visiting. Their combination of volcanic cliffs, a rare free-falling waterfall, and easy accessibility makes them one of the things to do in the Isle of Skye for all travellers. The dramatic scenery, haunting sounds, and powerful Atlantic backdrop create a perfect quick-stop highlight on any Skye itinerary.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.4 (370)

Kilt Rock Waterfall – Creag An Fhèilidh, located near Portree IV51 9JE, offers dramatic coastal views where a waterfall plunges from tall cliffs into the sea beside striking columnar basalt known as Kilt Rock; visitors note a large paid car park with a short walk (under five minutes) to the viewpoint, variable water flow, strong coastal winds, and better panoramic views from offshore, while the site can be busy at peak times and toilets may not be available.

Alex Haas

3 months ago

"Skye has endless pretty sights, landscapes and views. Impossible to see them all on one trips. Last time around we've skipped on this waterfall, butthis trip we had some time for it. There's a huge parking lot (fees apply), showing how popular this spot is. We came in the later afternoon though, plenty of space and only few visitors. A good time to visit. The ocean views are really pretty here, you can see for miles and miles. The cliff and the drop is massive. And then there's the waterfall of course, dropping over the high cliff down into the ocean. An amazing sight. Also depends a bit on how much water the waterfall carries. It's not the biggest, but probably the one with the biggest drop. There's a platform to see the fall, but still, the angle isn't great, even you put you head or phone out (don't drop it...). The best views you would definitely have from a boat. Or a drone. I'm happy though there weren't any drones....they are terribly a oying in my opinion. And loud. Still, you can get some decent views and pictures. And what your eye can catch is pretty spectacular. There are plenty of waterfalls on Skye and surely this one here is special...."

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Sam D

4 months ago

"This was such a beautiful location, it felt unreal. You can walk to falls viewpoint in less than 5 minutes from your car. Seeing the kilt rocks areunreal and you can also look for dinosaur footprints. It's a lovely way to spend some time. There is a large paid parking area. I didn't see toilets, so keep that in mind...."

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2 months ago

"Gorgeous waterfall! Highly recommended if your visiting Portree! There are 3 days tours that can bring you here from Inverness which I’d recommend!"

FAQs for Visiting Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Because the basalt columns and dolerite patterns resemble the pleats of a Scottish kilt.

No, the cliffs are sheer and dangerous; views are from the fenced viewpoint at the top.

Yes, but keep children supervised near the cliff-edge fencing.

Flow varies with rainfall; it is most dramatic after wet weather.

Nearby Attractions to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

The Quiraing - A surreal landscape of cliffs, pinnacles, and landslip formations.
Lealt Falls - A dramatic two-tier waterfall with coastal views.
Staffin Beach - Known for its dinosaur footprints and sweeping sands.
Brother’s Point - A scenic coastal headland with archaeology and wildlife.
Old Man of Storr - One of Skye's most famous walks with sweeping mountain views.

The Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Isle of Skye!

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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