Clashnessie Falls

The waterfall crashes down a narrow gorge near Sutherland with proper force after rain. It's not a long walk to reach it - maybe fifteen minutes from the car park - but the path can be boggy and the final approach involves some scrambling over rocks. Worth doing in wellington boots if you've got them.

What you get at the end is a genuine Highland waterfall, the kind that looks best when the weather's been wet. The surrounding landscape is bleak and beautiful in that northwest Scottish way - moorland and exposed stone. The falls themselves drop into a pool that's too cold for swimming, though that won't stop you thinking about it.

This suits walkers who want something quick without committing to a full day hike. Kids might find the scramble fun, though younger ones could struggle with the boggy bits. Photography types will have a field day in decent light, especially if the water's flowing hard.

There's no visitor infrastructure - no café, no facilities - so come prepared. Allow an hour there and back including time to stand around and stare at the water. Spring and autumn are the best seasons, when the light's good and the waterfall's got plenty of volume.

Clachtoll Beach Campsite, a couple of miles away, makes a sensible base if you're camping. The falls work well as a half-day outing alongside exploring the coastline around Sutherland rather than a stand-alone destination.