Did you know that the UK’s tallest waterfall isn’t in the Lake District or Snowdonia, but tucked away in the remote Highlands of Scotland? Eas a’ Chual Aluinn, which translates to “waterfall of the beautiful tresses,” is a dramatic cascade that plunges 200 metres down a cliff face – almost three times the height of Niagara Falls.
Despite its grandeur, this incredible site is often overlooked by road trippers rushing along the North Coast 500. I’d done the NC500 three times before I even found out the falls were there! I can only presume that casual travellers don’t hear about it because it’s a tougher site to get to (on foot.)
However, in this guide, I’ll show you a hack for how to see Eas a’ Chual Aluinn without having to go on foot, with tips on nearby stays, gear you’ll need, and ways to get the best view without breaking a sweat.
Why visit Eas a’ Chual Aluinn?
Eas a’ Chual Aluinn is Scotland’s highest waterfall and the tallest in the UK. Nestled in the heart of Sutherland, it tumbles into a remote glen just southeast of Kylesku. It’s a sight so few see in person due to its remote location and (somewhat) challenging access.
When I’m up in that part of Scotland, I’m usually there for a work. That (combined with the fact that I recently had a particularly complicated hip operation) means that I would rarely have the free time to make the hike. But that’s changing thanks to a little-known boat tour.
The fall is tiered and striking, best viewed after a period of rain when the full force of the water rushes down into the valley. If you’re planning a Highlands road trip or a nature-focused adventure, this is a must-see detour.
Option 1: See the falls by Boat (the easy way!)
Not everyone wants a five-hour bog stomp through remote Scottish wilderness – as I mentioned, my newly-repaired hip certainly wasn’t up for a ramble across the Scottish hillsides. The great news is that you can see Eas a’ Chual Aluinn from the comfort of a boat.
Kylesku Boat Tours, run by North West Sea Tours (it gets pretty confusing because there are actually TWO companies with this name here!), offers daily trips across Loch Glencoul, which give visitors an exciting view of the falls from below (down the glen.) The boat launches from the pier right outside Kylesku Hotel, making it incredibly convenient if you’re staying or grabbing a meal there. This hotel has long been known as a popular NC500 stop point – you’ll get a road trip bucket list double-tick, as Kylesku Bridge is right next to it!
Boat Tour Details:
- Departure Point: Kylesku Pier
- Duration: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Times: 10:30, 12:00, 14:00 (plus 16:00 in peak season)
- Cost: £25 for adults, £10 for children, free for under 3s
- Wildlife: Expect to see seals, seabirds, and possibly sea eagles
Watch my video about the tour on Instagram or TikTok
Tips for the Trip:
- Bring a warm jacket and waterproofs
- Binoculars help you get a better view of the upper falls
- Book ahead in peak season via North West Sea Tours
Pair your trip with lunch or an overnight stay at Kylesku Hotel. You can book your room here: Book your stay at Kylesku Hotel.
Option 2: Hike to the falls (for walkers and adventurers)
For those up for a Highland adventure, the hike to Eas a’ Chual Aluinn is probably one of the most rewarding (and remote) in Scotland. It’s a 6-mile round trip hike with some steep and boggy terrain. I strongly recommend downloading offline maps before setting off. While I’ve not attempted the walk myself, I follow a few walking influencers who note the orienteering difficulties in this area.
Hike Overview:
- Start Point: Layby on the A894, just south of Loch na Gainmhich
- Distance: ~10 km (6 miles) return
- Time: 4.5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Route Highlights:
- From the parking layby, follow the rough track across open moorland
- Cross a stream via stepping stones (waterproof boots are a must)
- Climb to Bealach a’ Bhuirich, gaining views down into Glen Coul
- Descend to the lip of the falls – extreme care required near the cliff edge!
Safety Notes:
- Mobile signal is limited – carry a GPS device
- Inform someone of your plans before you go
- Weather can change quickly in the Highlands of Scotland, pack accordingly
Boat or Hike to Eas a’ Chual Aluinn? Which is right for you?
| Option | Duration | Physical Effort | Views | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boat | ~1 hour | Minimal | Falls from below (note this is limited as you view the falls from down the glen) | Families, older visitors, bad weather |
| Hike | 4.5–6 hrs | Moderate | Falls from above and side | Hikers, photographers, off-grid adventurers |
Where to stay near Eas a’ Chual Aluinn
You’ve got two incredible accommodation options that put you within striking distance of the falls. I’ve visited both:
Located right on the water, this historic hotel has a seafood-focused restaurant and comfortable rooms with loch views. You couldn’t be closer to the boat launch point at this hotel, and so it’s ideal for tour access.
While they are famously known as one of the main North Coast 500 stop points for seafood, they have always been really accommodating when it comes to my vegan diet (however, I recommend you give them some notice as sourcing ingredients in this area is trickier.) It’s a lively stop, with a larger bar and restaurant area, and (on all the occasions I’ve been there) I’ve got talking to locals who have just popped in for a pint or two.
Just a short 3-5 minute drive from Kylesku, Newton Lodge offers peaceful, stylish rooms and panoramic Highland views. Great for quiet evenings and starry skies. I love the cosy feel of this place, and I’d go as far as to say it’s one of my favourite accommodation stops on the NC500!
As with Kylesku Hotel, make sure to provide a dietary ‘heads-up’ in advance. Their restaurant gives ultimate ‘Scotland cottage core’ vibes, and one evening we were treated to an enormous herd of deer passing by after dinner.
Other planning tips
- Best time to visit: Most guides will tell you to visit from May to September for fuller falls and calmer weather (though it’s worth noting that with summer comes the Scottish midge). April is my favourite month for visiting this area, as it’s usually midge-free and the roads are a little quieter before the summer North Coast 500 madness
- Transport: You’ll need a car – public transport is limited in this region
- Dining: Try the restaurant at Kylesku Hotel. Open for coffee and cake from 11am, Lunch served daily from 12pm -2pm (last seating 1.45pm), Dinner service from 6pm – 8pm (last seating 7.45pm), Bar open from 11am – 11.00pm
- Fuel: The nearest fuel stations are limited – top up in Ullapool or Lairg
