Fairy Glen Falls

The waterfall itself is modest - nothing that will make your jaw drop from a distance. But walk the short path through the woodland near Fortrose and you'll understand why locals keep coming back. Fairy Glen Falls tumbles down through a gorge lined with moss-covered rocks and overhanging branches that block out most of the sky. It's atmospheric, genuinely so.

You're looking at a proper walk rather than a casual stroll. The path gets boggy in places and there's a reasonable scramble down to the water itself, so decent boots matter. Most people spend 30 to 45 minutes here depending on how long you linger by the rocks. The waterfall works year-round, but spring brings more volume to the cascade.

This suits walkers far more than families with small kids. The scrambling bits aren't dangerous exactly, but they require a bit of confidence and sure footing. Teenagers and active families will get on fine. It's also the sort of place that appeals to photographers - the dappled light through the trees and the fern-lined banks are genuinely photogenic, especially on overcast days when the colours look richer.

If you're staying at Fortrose Bay Campsite, the falls are barely a 20-minute drive away, making them a worthwhile half-day excursion. Go early to beat any visitors, and definitely don't expect crowds - that's rather the point. It's not Instagram-famous, which keeps it peaceful.