Lealt Gorge and Waterfall, Isle of Skye

Waterfalls near Isle of Skye

Lower falls at Lealt
Lower falls at Lealt
CC BY-SA 2.0 / John Allan

Lealt Gorge and Waterfall in the Isle of Skye, Scotland, is a roadside natural attraction on the A855 south of Staffin. A short path from the parking area leads to viewing points above a deep gorge cut by the Lealt River, where the water drops in stages before falling toward the coast.

The site is best known for its narrow chasm, exposed rock layers, and open views toward the sea, all of which can be seen without a long hike. It suits visitors who want a quick scenic stop, photographers looking for a strong landscape composition, and travellers exploring the Trotternish Peninsula at an easy pace.

History and Significance of Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

Though today it is known mainly for its natural beauty, the Lealt area has a long human history tied to industry and coastal life. The gorge was shaped over thousands of years by the steady erosion of the Lealt River as it carved its way toward the shoreline. The dramatic drop and layered rock formations visible today tell the story of Skye’s volcanic past and ancient geological shifts.

Nearby remnants of industrial activity hint at the area’s role in past local economies, including diatomite extraction and processing, which once took place further down the glen. Nature has since reclaimed much of the landscape, leaving behind a powerful contrast between the raw terrain and the serenity of the surrounding coastline.

Today, the gorge and falls are celebrated for their wild aesthetic, offering a different kind of Skye spectacle compared to more famous spots like the Quiraing or Kilt Rock.

Things to See and Do in Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

The short walk from the parking area leads first to a viewing platform overlooking the main gorge. From here, you can peer down into the depths to see the waterfall’s twin cascades plunging through the narrow chasm. The two-step drop creates dynamic water movement, especially after rain, when the falls are most impressive.

Continue along the path to the second viewing area. This platform sits higher and farther out, giving a broad view over the cliffs, gorge mouth, and the sea beyond. On clear days, the light along the coastline is stunning, with the distant horizon creating a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

The walk itself is gentle and suitable for most visitors, making it one of the things to do in the Isle of Skye for families or travellers seeking an easy scenic stop between major attractions.

How to Get to Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

Lealt Gorge is located along the A855 approximately 7 kilometres south of Staffin on the eastern Trotternish Peninsula. The nearest major airport is Inverness Airport, offering access to the Highlands before continuing onward to Skye. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Isle of Skye on Booking.com.

Train travellers can reach Kyle of Lochalsh, then cross the Skye Bridge by bus or car to follow the A87 and A855 north toward Lealt. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Driving is the simplest way to reach the falls. There is a small parking area near the gorge, and the footpath to the viewpoints is only a short walk from the road.

Practical Tips on Visiting Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

  • Suggested tips: Visit after rainfall for the most dramatic water flow.
  • Best time to visit: Morning light brings beautiful illumination into the gorge.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Always accessible.
  • Official website: Check VisitScotland or local guides for updates.
  • How long to spend: 20-40 minutes exploring both viewpoints.
  • Accessibility: The paths are short but may include uneven surfaces.
  • Facilities: None at the site; nearest services are in Staffin or Portree.
  • Photography tip: Use the second viewpoint for expansive shots of the gorge and coastline.
  • Guided tours: Often included in sightseeing routes along the Trotternish Peninsula.
  • Nearby food options: Staffin offers small cafes and eateries within a short drive.

Where to Stay close to Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

Stay nearby in Staffin for quick access to Lealt Gorge and other attractions along the Trotternish Peninsula. A good option is Staffin House, offering comfort close to coastal scenery. For dramatic landscapes further north, Flodigarry Hotel is a scenic choice. Alternatively, Uig Hotel provides a base for exploring both the east and west sides of Trotternish.

Is Lealt Gorge & Waterfall Worth Visiting?

Yes, Lealt Gorge and Waterfall is absolutely worth a stop. Its deep gorge, powerful twin cascades, and easy access make it one of the things to do in the Isle of Skye for travellers seeking dramatic coastal scenery without a long hike. It's a peaceful, visually striking spot that complements nearby attractions perfectly.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (1,233)

Lealt Falls, just off the A855 north of Portree at 12 Stormy Hill, is a compact stop with free parking (plus an overflow) and a short, well‑maintained path to an upper viewing platform overlooking a series of waterfalls cascading toward the Sound of Raasay; more adventurous visitors can follow a steeper zigzag trail down to the lower falls and beach for closer views, and many recommend allowing about 30 minutes to enjoy the three main cascades and coastal panorama.

Andressa Barbosa
2 months ago
"I stopped here unpretentiously and was one of the most beautiful places I visited in the island by far !! Include it in your itinerary, definitelyworth it. Easy to stop. Impressive view of two or three waterfalls. Easy and well maintained path. Love it..."
janetc889
2 months ago
"It is very nice here . Free car parking at this spot and you can park in a small upper car park or on the side of road with some disabled parkingspaces as well . There is a few different points to look at and you can go on a walk which takes approximately 3 hours in total. I didn’t this but will do on our next visit. It was very nice. There is a coffee place up top but was closed when we visited. I would recommend this place , it is lovely..."
Bernard Savage
4 months ago
"Lealt or An Leth Allt (The half or almost stream) is a series of waterfalls cascading to the sound of Raasay on the North West of the aisle of Skye.There is free parking (and am overflow) at road level. A well maintained path leads to sn observation deck giving clear views of the upper falls. If you are feeling energetic there is a zigzag path down to beach level from where you can take in the lower falls...."
Karrst
4 months ago
"After our walk up the Old Man of Storr we decided to tour along the A855 to the north coast of Skye. Our first stop was at Lealt Falls. The falls canbe found approximately 13 miles north of Portree and 4.3 miles from Staffin. There are two parking areas one which holds around 20-25 cars, is more of a layby, but no parking charges. There is a second upper car park, which will take many more cars. There is also the Constables Food Truck situated here, which serves up a hearty menu of hot food and refreshments. Their coffee was excellent. A short walk along a good gravel path from the car park, takes you to to the first viewing area. The wooden viewing platform gives some breathtaking views of the upper falls and the lower falls, with the Lealt falls plunging 90 metres down a narrow, tree-lined gorge into the Sound of Raasay, carved by the River Lealt. There is a large plunge pool at the base of the lower falls for anyone brave enough to face the cold water. The platform over the gorge not only gives you wonderful views of the falls, but also the Trotternish mountains to the west; and to the mainland across the Sound to the east. From the viewing deck, there is then a short climb on the narrow road to the upper (or main) car park, to another wooden viewing platform where, the mountains of the mainland are clearly visible, but we had some good weather. On a dull rainy day you will probably not get this view. The path then continues down to Invertote Bay, it is narrow and on a wet day probably slippery. We stopped at a viewpoint above the bay. There were some information boards and we had a good view of the decaying remains of the buildings used by salmon fishermen of old still. The remnants of the old factory which processed diatomite from the nearby mines in the late 19th century, is also visible. The diatomite was transported from the mines from Loch Cuithir via the Lealt Valley Diatomite Railway, a narrow-gauge tramway built in 1889 running parallel to the River Lealt. The rock was then processed in the factory, boarded on skiffs and sent to the mainland by puffer boat...."
Eddy J
5 months ago
"Location & Accessibility Lealt Falls, carved by the River Lealt, plunges approximately 90 m in two main tiers through a narrow gorge before reachingthe coast near Staffin on the A855—about 13 miles north of Portree . Parking: Free car park for ~20 vehicles (plus a newer overflow area); no toilets . Trail: Easy, short walk to an upper viewing platform; strenuous descent (~100 m) required for lower falls and gorge access ...."
Mark E
2 months ago
"Beautiful series of water falls that can be viewed from the viewing platform. There are actually several waterfalls within this drainage. There is anentrance and exit to the small car park. There is a trail that goes down to the bottom falls, however our schedule did not allow us to take it...."

FAQs for Visiting Lealt Gorge & Waterfall

No, the walk to both viewpoints is short and relatively easy.
Yes, the viewpoints are fenced for safety, though care is still advised near steep edges.
Yes, but it is most impressive after rain.
A small parking area is located beside the A855 near the gorge.

The Lealt Gorge and Waterfall appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Isle of Skye!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Lealt Falls 12 Stormy Hill Portree IV51 9DY United Kingdom
Isle of Skye: 33 km

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