One Of Europe's Most Beautiful Waterfalls Is Tucked Away In Scotland's Remote Cliffs

Who doesn't love a good waterfall? There's nothing quite like that awe-inspiring moment when you spot a cascading stream of water thundering off a cliff or the side of a mountain. Of course, Scotland, a country in the northern reaches of the United Kingdom, is known more for its heathered hills and misty castles rather than waterfalls. This may be especially true on the Isle of Skye, one of the largest and most famous of the Scottish islands. But you might be pleasantly surprised to know that the Isle of Skye is also home to some of Scotland's most spectacular vistas, including several incredibly picturesque falls. 

Hidden in this famous scenery, you'll find Mealt Falls, aka Kilt Rock Falls, which is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The stunning cascade is caused by runoff from a nearby loch, which splashes right into the ocean at the base of Kilt Rock. Kilt Rock, named for the basalt columns rising out of the sea that resemble the tartan patterns on a kilt, is another one of Skye's natural wonders in its own right. And despite being fairly off the beaten path, Mealt Falls is easily accessible from the town of Portree. If you're driving from there, you can access the falls in about 15 minutes. Otherwise, you'll need to plan ahead to take a bus (which runs every couple of hours) that will drop you off about five minutes away from Kilt Rock.

Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock are located on the northeastern coast of the Isle of Skye. The nearly 200-foot (60-meter) falls cascade into the Sound of Raasay, off the side of Kilt Rock, which measures nearly 300 feet (90 meters). The falls are formed by a small spring that flows from the freshwater Loch Mealt, a short distance inland. It's possible to see the area from the Kilt Rock Viewpoint, right above the falls, which is a short walk from a nearby parking lot. Another option is to take a boat tour. The best panorama, however, is from one of the various hiking trails along the Trotternish Peninsula. These paths are considered some of the most incredible hikes to waterfalls in the world. In addition to Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, they also provide stunning views of the Sound of Raasay, Loch Mealt, the Old Man of Storr rock formations, Brothers Point (worth a visit for its fossilized dinosaur footprints), and, on a clear day, the more distant shores of the mainland.

It's also common to incorporate a stop at Mealt Falls during a scenic drive along the edges of the Trotternish Peninsula. The nearly 50-mile-loop has narrow roads, is ideal for small cars (or bicycles), and can be completed in under two hours. However, this excessively scenic spit of land deserves more of your time, so spend plenty of time at points of interest like Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock. 

The Isle of Skye is one of the most breathtaking places in the country, so it comes as no surprise that Scotland is often voted by travelers as the most beautiful country in the world. Although the island is somewhat remote, it's easy to reach if you have a car, thanks to the road bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh. While the island isn't small, you can drive around the whole circumference, or crisscross through, to see all the sights it has to offer. There are no bad choices on the Isle of Skye. 

There's also no bad time to visit Skye. Some think the wilder winter weather makes the island even more picturesque, although the high season is during the summer. You'll find more crowds, but also more amenities. In the spring and autumn, places like Mealt Falls can be even more impressive due to heavier rains. 

Whenever you decide to go, there will be plenty to see on Skye. Visit the capital, Portree, a colorful town often reflected in the waters of the Sound of Raasay –– the same sound that receives the gushing waters of Mealt Falls. Take another hike to the famous Fairy Pools near the village of Carbost, or see the incredible lighthouse on the tip of Neist Point. There are also ruins scattered around the islands. And don't forget to see the famous Old Man of Storr, an otherworldly rock formation resembling a castle ruin or an old man's face in a certain light (hence the name).