Clashnessie Falls: A Serene Highland Cascade
Discover the tranquil 15-meter Clashnessie Falls and its wild Highland surroundings, where rugged beauty meets serene coastal charm.
Clashnessie Falls, located near the small village of Clashnessie in northern Scotland’s Assynt region, is a striking 15-meter waterfall set amidst rugged natural beauty. A short, slightly boggy walk from a nearby beach leads to the falls, where visitors can experience the dramatic cascade up close. The surrounding area features a sandy beach, rocky inlets, and ever-changing coastal weather influenced by the Atlantic Gulf Stream, offering a peaceful escape into wild Highland scenery.
A brief summary to Clashnessie Falls
- Abhainn Clais an Eas, Lairg, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear waterproof footwear or wetshoes due to boggy terrain and stepping stones on the trail.
- Visit after rainfall for a more dramatic and powerful waterfall experience.
- Arrive early to secure parking in the small free layby near Clashnessie Bay.
- Explore the nearby Clashnessie Bay beach to enjoy contrasting coastal scenery.
- Prepare for rapidly changing weather typical of the Atlantic-influenced microclimate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
From Lairg, drive northwest on the A836 for approximately 40 minutes (about 32 miles) to reach the B870 turnoff toward Clashnessie. Parking is available near the beach in a small free layby, but spaces are limited and fill quickly during peak periods.
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Bus
Daily bus services run from Lochinver to the vicinity of Clashnessie Bay, with a journey time of around 45 to 60 minutes. Service frequency may be limited, so check schedules in advance. The walk from the bus stop to the falls is about 10 to 20 minutes over uneven terrain.
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Walking
A short walk of 10 to 20 minutes from the parking area near Clashnessie Bay leads to the falls. The path includes boggy sections and stepping stones, so suitable footwear is essential. The terrain is natural and can be slippery when wet.
Clashnessie Falls location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Clashnessie Falls
Natural Majesty in the Scottish Highlands
Clashnessie Falls is a captivating waterfall nestled in the remote and scenic Assynt area of northern Scotland. Dropping approximately 15 meters, the falls cascade down from the lochans above into the river Abhainn Clais an Eas. The powerful flow varies with the seasons and weather, becoming especially impressive after rainfall, when the water thunders over the rocks with great force. The falls’ name derives from the Gaelic for "Channel of the Waterfall," reflecting the intimate connection between the landscape and local heritage.A Walk Through Wild Terrain
Access to Clashnessie Falls involves a short walk of around 10 to 20 minutes from a car park near Clashnessie Bay. The trail is known to be boggy in places and includes stepping stones that may be submerged when the falls are at full strength, so sturdy footwear or wetshoes are recommended. The path winds through a mix of minor roads, tracks, and natural terrain, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rugged environment. The walk rewards with views of the falls and the chance to stand at the base of the cascade, feeling the spray and hearing the roar of the water.Clashnessie Bay: Coastal Contrast
Just below the falls lies Clashnessie Bay, a quiet and beautiful beach facing north—one of the few sandy beaches in Assynt with this orientation. The bay features a combination of sandy shores and rocky inlets, shaped by the Atlantic Ocean and influenced by the Gulf Stream, which creates a mild microclimate. The water color here is famously variable, shifting from tranquil turquoise to frothy white waves depending on the weather. This coastal setting complements the freshwater falls, offering visitors diverse natural scenery in close proximity.Wildlife and Environment
The area around Clashnessie Falls and Bay is part of a protected natural landscape typical of the Scottish Highlands, supporting a variety of wildlife and plant species. The mixture of freshwater and coastal habitats provides opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying native flora. The relative remoteness and low visitor numbers help preserve the tranquil atmosphere, making it a favored spot for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.Visitor Experience and Practicalities
Parking is available near the beach in a small free layby, which can fill up during peak times, so early arrival is advisable. The site is open year-round, with no formal entrance fees. Visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing and footwear. The short walk and natural setting make Clashnessie Falls accessible to most visitors, though the boggy trail may challenge those with limited mobility. The combination of waterfall, beach, and surrounding wilderness offers a rewarding Highland experience.Local Significance and Cultural Notes
Clashnessie Falls holds cultural significance through its Gaelic name and its place within the Assynt landscape, an area rich in geological and archaeological interest. The falls and bay are part of a broader tapestry of natural wonders that define this remote part of Scotland, celebrated for its wild beauty and traditional heritage. The site invites contemplation of the power and serenity of nature, encapsulating the spirit of the Highlands.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stoer Lighthouse
5.8 km
Experience a unique self-catering lighthouse stay with panoramic coastal views on Scotland’s remote and rugged Stoer Head.
Walkhighlands
64.0 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Butt of Lewis Lighthouse
64.4 km
Scotland’s northernmost red-brick lighthouse, a historic beacon amid rugged cliffs and wild Atlantic winds on the Isle of Lewis.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
67.6 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
historic scotland
76.5 km
Explore the historical essence of The Blackhouse in Arnol, Isle of Lewis, where traditional Scottish life comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
81.2 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Rogie Falls
81.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rogie Falls, a stunning waterfall in the Scottish Highlands, perfect for hiking and nature photography.
Fyrish Monument
81.7 km
Historic stone monument atop Fyrish Hill blending Scottish resilience with colonial Indian inspiration and offering stunning Highland views.
Old Ruins
82.3 km
Discover the haunting Old Ruins near Portree, where ancient history and rugged coastal beauty converge on the Isle of Skye.
Castle Leod
82.8 km
Explore Castle Leod, a stunning Scottish castle in Strathpeffer, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Clach an Tiompain
83.4 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Eagle Stone Path
83.5 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
Rubha Hunish
83.6 km
Explore Rubha Hunish, the northern jewel of the Isle of Skye, where breathtaking views and rich history come together in a stunning coastal experience.
Calanais Standing Stones
83.9 km
Discover the ancient mystique of the Calanais Standing Stones, an extraordinary historical landmark on the Isle of Lewis, steeped in culture and beauty.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
84.3 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Clachtoll Broch
2.9 km
Explore Clachtoll Broch, a remarkable Iron Age drystone tower on Scotland’s coast, preserved by fire and time with stunning sea views.
Clachtoll Beach
3.3 km
Discover the serene white sands and turquoise waters of Clachtoll Beach, a pristine Highland paradise rich in wildlife and ancient history.
Achmelvich Beach
5.2 km
Discover Achmelvich Beach, a tranquil white-sand paradise with turquoise waters and rugged Highland beauty on Scotland’s iconic North Coast 500.
Achmelvich Bay
5.3 km
Discover Achmelvich Bay’s pristine white sands, vibrant watersports, and breathtaking Highland scenery on Scotland’s northern coast.
Hermit's Castle
5.4 km
Discover the enigmatic Hermit's Castle, a tiny Brutalist bothy blending into Scotland’s rugged coast with a mysterious story and stunning views.
Old Man of Stoer
6.3 km
A towering Torridonian sandstone sea stack on Scotland’s wild northwest coast, famed for dramatic hikes, climbing, and stunning wildlife encounters.
Assynt Viewpoint
16.4 km
Dramatic Highland peaks frame an ancient loch and castle ruins in Scotland's remote geological wonderland.
Loch Assynt
17.3 km
A breathtaking freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, framed by rugged peaks and historic castle ruins, perfect for nature and history lovers.
Kylesku Bridge
17.6 km
A visually striking curved concrete bridge in the Scottish Highlands offering stunning views and rich history along the North Coast 500.
North West Highlands Geopark
18.2 km
Explore ancient landscapes and geological wonders at Scotland’s North West Highlands UNESCO Global Geopark, where Earth’s history comes alive.
Allt Chranaidh Waterfall
18.8 km
Discover the dramatic beauty and serene wilderness of Allt Chranaidh Waterfall, a hidden gem cascading through the Scottish Highlands.
Ardvreck Castle
19.6 km
Explore the haunting ruins of Ardvreck Castle, a dramatic Highland landmark steeped in history, legend, and stunning lochside views.
Ardvreck Castle Waterfall
19.7 km
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Knockan Crag National Nature Reserve
24.9 km
Explore three billion years of Earth’s history at Knockan Crag, where ancient rocks and breathtaking Highland vistas reveal Scotland’s geological story.
The Bone Caves
25.0 km
Explore ancient limestone caves high in the Scottish Highlands, where Ice Age animal bones and stunning views tell a story of prehistoric wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Lochinver Larder
8.2 km
Savor handcrafted Highland pies amid stunning Scottish scenery in the welcoming village of Lochinver.
Delilah's
8.6 km
A lively, family-friendly Highland restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced seafood with stunning sea views and a buzzing atmosphere.
An Cala Café
8.9 km
Fresh seafood and hearty Scottish fare served year-round in a cozy café and bunkhouse nestled in Lochinver’s scenic Culag Park.
Eddrachilles Hotel
16.1 km
Charming Highland hotel with stunning sea views, authentic hospitality, and refined Scottish dining on the shores of Badcall Bay.
Scourie Hotel
17.8 km
A charming Highland fishing hotel on Scotland’s northwest coast, blending rustic tradition with cozy comfort and excellent local cuisine.
Kylesku Hotel
17.9 km
Experience Highland charm and fresh seafood with breathtaking views over Loch Glencoul at the welcoming Kylesku Hotel.
Shorehouse Restaurant
21.7 km
A cozy family-run seafood haven in Tarbet offering fresh catches, stunning Highland coast views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Dipping Lugger
36.9 km
An intimate, Michelin-recognized restaurant in an 18th-century harbour manse, serving inventive tasting menus of hyper-local seafood and game in the heart of Ullapool.
The Crask Inn
47.1 km
A remote Highland inn where simple rooms, hearty home-cooked meals, and genuine hospitality meet wild moorland and Munro country.
The Pier
57.4 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Tongue Hotel
59.8 km
Historic Highland lodge with modern luxury, stunning views, and authentic Scottish hospitality on the NC500.
The Breakwater
61.5 km
Coastal café with stunning harbour views, fresh homemade fare, and warm hospitality in the heart of Port of Ness, Isle of Lewis.
Wobbly Dog of Lewis
62.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly tearoom at the Isle of Lewis’ northwestern tip, blending homemade treats with local crafts and warm island hospitality.
Eleven Restaurant & Bar
62.5 km
A welcoming bar and grill in Stornoway offering classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a cozy atmosphere from morning till night.
Caladh Inn
62.6 km
Comfortable and welcoming inn in central Stornoway, blending local charm with convenient access to the Isle of Lewis’s highlights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
London Stores
31.6 km
Discover local flavors at London Stores, the premier supermarket in Lairg, blending quality groceries with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every traveler.
The Captain's Cabin
36.8 km
Discover a cozy treasure trove of Scottish gifts, crafts, and friendly service at Ullapool’s charming Captain's Cabin.
Gairloch Gifts
59.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and heartfelt souvenirs at Gairloch Gifts, your charming Highland stop on the scenic North Coast 500.
Sileas She-Liss
62.6 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at Sileas She-Liss, a charming boutique in Stornoway that celebrates local craftsmanship and style.
The Original Factory Shop (Co-op Stornoway)
62.6 km
Affordable brand-name fashion, beauty, and homeware all under one roof in Stornoway’s popular department store.
Bayhead Gift House
62.8 km
Explore the charming Bayhead Gift House in Stornoway for unique local crafts and souvenirs that celebrate the rich heritage of the Hebrides.
Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock
62.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and exquisite SeaGlass jewellery inspired by the Isle of Lewis at Salka – Gift Shop on the Rock.
Hebridean Gifts
62.9 km
Discover authentic Hebridean crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant artisan scene.
Celtic Clothing
62.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish heritage with bespoke kilts and Harris Tweed craftsmanship at Celtic Clothing in Stornoway.
Bonmarché
62.9 km
Bonmarché Stornoway offers stylish, affordable women's fashion in sizes 10-28, conveniently located on Cromwell Street in the town centre.
Peacocks
62.9 km
Affordable fashion for the whole family in the heart of Stornoway’s shopping district.
Nicolson & Co Ltd
62.9 km
Stornoway's trusted newsagent serving the Isle of Lewis since 1978.
Sardar & Sons
62.9 km
Discover quality clothing and distinctive hats for special occasions at Sardar & Sons, Stornoway’s trusted local fashion destination.
The Hebridean Hobby Centre
62.9 km
A cozy craft shop in Stornoway showcasing handmade Hebridean crafts, textiles, and local art – perfect for unique island souvenirs and creative inspiration.
Tweedtastic
62.9 km
Authentic Harris Tweed and wool creations crafted with island heritage and warmth in the heart of Stornoway.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rip
55.5 km
A cozy bar on the Isle of Lewis where local culture, craft beers, and scenic beauty create a warm retreat for travelers and locals alike.
Lewis & Harris Rangers Supporters Club
62.5 km
A spirited social hub and the world’s largest Rangers supporters club, uniting fans in Stornoway with football passion and community warmth.
The Badachro Inn
62.5 km
Coastal Highland inn renowned for fresh seafood, stunning bay views, and warm, rustic charm in the heart of Badachro.
McNeills
62.9 km
Experience Stornoway’s vibrant live music and warm hospitality at McNeills, a historic bar with authentic Hebridean spirit.
Stornoway Distillers @ The Fank
62.9 km
Experience authentic Hebridean flavors and craft gin in the heart of Stornoway’s vibrant culinary scene.
Artizan
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Artizan blends local flavors, creative cocktails, and unique crafts in a warm, welcoming café and event space in the heart of Stornoway.
The Criterion Bar
63.0 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish bar in Stornoway known for its friendly service, quality drinks, and authentic Hebridean atmosphere.
THE HARBOUR BAR
63.0 km
A warm, inviting bar in Stornoway offering local brews, hearty Scottish fare, and live music in the heart of the Isle of Lewis.
Old Barn Bar
63.3 km
Authentic crofters’ barn pub with rustic charm, local flavors, and warm hospitality on the Isle of Lewis.
Cross Inn
63.4 km
A cozy, characterful inn and pub offering warm hospitality, excellent local food, and comfortable stays on the Isle of Lewis.
Beinn Bar
77.6 km
Cozy up with Scotland’s finest whiskies, ales, and gins in a historic Highland bar nestled within The Torridon estate.
Nanny's
80.0 km
Cozy cafe in Shieldaig serving homemade soups, local seafood, and fresh coffee in a charming Highland village setting.
Platform 1864
86.8 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
The Ship Inn
89.6 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
Rockvilla Hotel, Rooms, Restaurant & Bar - Lochcarron - NC500 Route
91.1 km
Charming Highland guest house with stunning loch views, excellent local cuisine, and warm hospitality on the NC500 route.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
