Coire Mhic Nobuil Waterfall, Torridon

Coire Mhic Nobuil Waterfall

The Torridon area of Wester Ross is one of the most stunningly beautiful regions of the Highlands. It also features a number of attractive waterfalls. Some require a taxing hike to reach, but one, on the lower reaches of Coire Mhic Nobuil, is about as easy to access as a Highlands waterfall can possibly be.

Coire Mhic Nobuil (which possibly translates as the corrie of the nobleman's son) is a steep-sided gorge between the peaks of Beinn Alligin to the west and Liathach to the east. Through this gorge runs the river Abhainn Coire Mhic Nobuil.

The waterfall from the western bank

Just before it reaches Loch Torridon at Torridon House, the river tumbles down a series of waterfalls. By far the most spectacular of these waterfalls can be viewed immediately north of the bridge over the minor road between Torridon village and Inveralligin.

There is a parking area by the bridge, and if all you want is a quick view of the falls you can simply walk to the middle of the bridge. Alternatively, and for a closer view, take the stalker's path up the eastern side of the river and follow it for roughly 100 yards until you come to the top of the falls.

The falls from the bridge

This path continues on p[ast the waterfall and makes a loop behind Liathach to emerge in the middle of Glen Torridon at a car park. The Liathach walk is one of the most popular in Wester Ross, and for good reason.

For yet a third view of the falls you can scramble up the western side of the river, but please take care. The gorge falls away sharply and it is easy to wander too close to the edge as you watch the waterfall.

The top of the falls

Visiting

From Torridon village walk or drive west towards Inveralligin. You will come to a well-maintained car park by the bridge over Abhainn Coire Mhic Nobuil immediately north of Torridon House. From the car park, simply walk to the middle of the bridge. The waterfalls are in plain sight a hundred yards upriver.