Plodda Falls is a beautiful natural waterfall located in Scotland, about a one-hour drive from the Highland capital Inverness. The 46-metre-high waterfall is set in a picturesque forest area, surrounded by lush green vegetation, towering trees, and rugged cliffs. The water flowing down is crystal clear, and as it falls into the pool below, it creates a soothing sound. Visitors can hike up to a viewpoint at the top of the waterfall for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view—it’s truly stunning and unforgettable. Plodda Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and for those looking to escape the noise and rush of city life. Address: Cannich, Beauly IV4 7LY. From the parking area, it’s about a 20-minute walk to reach the waterfall. When we visited, it hadn’t rained for a while so the water flow wasn’t very strong, but it was still very clear and beautiful.
Plodda Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Plodda Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Plodda Falls famous?
Plodda Falls is famous for its dramatic Victorian viewing platform that cantilevers out over the gorge, offering one of Scotland's most thrilling waterfall viewpoints. The 46-metre single-drop fall into a narrow rocky gorge surrounded by ancient Caledonian forest makes it one of the Scottish Highlands' most photographed waterfalls.
Can you swim at Plodda Falls?
No — the waterfall plunges into a rocky gorge with no safe swimming area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Plodda Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on the woodland trails at Plodda Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Plodda Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required to visit Plodda Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Plodda Falls?
There is a free car park at Plodda Falls with space for approximately 20 cars. The viewing platform is a short woodland walk (about 400 metres) from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Plodda Falls?
About 0.8 km / 0.5 mi return from the car park to the viewing platform via a woodland path. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Plodda Falls hike difficulty
Easy — the path is well-maintained through forest with some steps and gentle slopes to the viewing platform. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Plodda Falls?
Spring and autumn (April–May, September–October) offer the best combination of good flow and pleasant weather, though the falls are impressive year-round after rainfall. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Plodda Falls
From the car park, follow the well-marked woodland trail through Scots pine forest. The path descends gently with some steps and leads to a dramatic Victorian-era viewing platform that extends out over the gorge, offering spectacular views of the falls plunging 46 metres into the rocky chasm below. The platform can be slippery when wet.
Plodda Falls official website
Attractions near Plodda Falls
- •Dog Falls — scenic waterfall on the River Affric with woodland walks, about 6 km east
- •Glen Affric — one of Scotland's most beautiful glens with ancient Caledonian pinewoods
- •Loch Affric — stunning remote loch surrounded by mountains, accessible by forest track
- •Tomich Village — small Highland village near the falls with local amenities
- •Cannich — nearby village with shops and accommodation, gateway to Glen Affric
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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