Fairy Pools, Natural waterfalls in Glen Brittle, Scotland
Fairy Pools are a series of natural waterfalls and pools formed along the Allt Coire a' Mhadaidh stream at the base of the Black Cuillin mountains. The water cascades down in stages, creating several connected basins suitable for swimming.
The location marked the site of a major 1601 battle between the MacLeod and MacDonald clans. This confrontation prompted the Scottish Crown to exert greater control over the Hebridean islands.
The pools carry the Scottish Gaelic name Glumagan nan Sithichean, reflecting their place in local myth and language traditions. Interpretive signs throughout the area share this naming heritage with visitors today.
The area is reached via a roughly 2.4-kilometer walking path from the car park, fitted with new steel and timber footbridges. The route is relatively easy to manage, but the terrain can be wet and slippery, so sturdy footwear and care are essential.
The pools are filled year-round by mountain spring water flowing through the landscape, maintaining remarkably cold temperatures. Even during warmer months, the water stays refreshingly cold, defining the swimming experience throughout the seasons.
Location: Highland
GPS coordinates: 57.25023,-6.25834
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:01
Waterfalls draw you in through your senses. You hear the roar of falling water, feel the mist on your skin, and watch light dance across the spray. Many of the most powerful examples are found in places that stay relatively untouched, where reaching them is half the reward. These destinations give...
The Scottish Highlands span thousands of square miles in northern Scotland, offering striking landscapes of mountains, jagged coastlines, and remote lakes. This region retains villages that only recently gained road access, such as Rhenigidale on Harris Island, connected to the rest of the island in...
Europe contains numerous lakes distinguished by their natural beauty and relative seclusion. From the turquoise waters of the Dolomites to the clear lakes of the Scottish Highlands, these locations span various geological formations. These lakes lie within alpine regions, volcanic areas, or historic...
Scotland offers photographers a wide range of landscapes and historical sites. This collection includes coastal formations like Bow Fiddle Rock and Sandwood Bay, medieval fortresses such as Edinburgh Castle and Stirling Castle, and mountains and glens like Glencoe and the Cairngorms. On the Isle of...
Sgùrr Dearg
4.4 km
Sgùrr Alasdair
5.3 km
Glen Brittle
3.8 km
Blà Bheinn
10.5 km
Sgùrr nan Gillean
3.9 km
Glamaig
9.1 km
Am Basteir
3.4 km
Marsco
7.5 km
Bruach na Frìthe
2.9 km
Sgùrr na Banachdaich
3.4 km
Sgùrr a' Ghreadaidh
2.9 km
Sgùrr MhicChoinnich
5 km
Dun Ardtreck
14 km
Sgurr Dubh Mor
5.8 km
Sgùrr a' Mhadaidh
2.7 km
Eas a' Bhradain
10.1 km
Eas Mòr, Minginish
12 km
Dun Merkadale
6.4 km
Tungadale souterrain
14.5 km
Glen Bracadale souterrain
14.1 km
Arnaval
10.5 km
Bracadale Free Presbyterian Church
15.1 km
Preshal Beg
10.5 km
Stockval
9 km
Preshal More
10.9 km
Biod Ruadh
11.5 km
Sligachan Old Bridge
6.8 km
Loch na h-Airde canal, harbour and noosts, Rubha an Dunain, Isle of Skye
10.3 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes