Time for another “Places to Visit” post!
Today we’re talking about another waterfall, but one that isn’t very well-known - the Falls of Rha.
This is a small walk that you can do, from the town of Uig, so it might be a nice way to end a Quiraing walk, or when you visit the Fairy Glen, or there is a lovely woodland walk too right near the shoreside.
To be honest, Uig is a lovely village so why not just have a mosey around, enjoying the gorgeous view and visit the waterfalls at the same time? You can find the Isle of Skye Brewing Company here so you can pick up some of the local goods to take back home..
Anyway.. I digress.
If you like waterfalls in woodlands, then the Falls of Rha are the place for you.
There are a few parking spaces in front of the Old Police House in Uig, and then walk up the A855 towards the bridge over the river - the road has no pathways in places so take care! Just before the bridge is a little turning on the right, and there begins the walk.
The walk really takes no time at all, 10 minutes tops. The path is clear, although steep in some places.
Being among the trees feels fantastic, there aren’t really many woodlands on Skye so it’s a rare feeling. Listen out for the roar of the waterfall as you get closer.
I love a mossy / ferny canyon, and this is exactly that.
When you get the waterfall, there is a good place to stop, and just sit, relax and enjoy watching the water.
Although I know this is a good spot for wild swimming - please beware! The water is INCREDIBLY cold, even in the summer. Here are a few pointers for if you have your heart set on going for a dip:
Choose your spot wisely. Make sure you can quickly & easily get out of the water should you need to. Place your gear within easy reach. Don’t jump in if air or water temperatures are very low - you will probably go into shock.
Warm up beforehand. If you’ve done a long hike to get there, and you’re sweaty, you’ll be fine, but if you’re at normal body temperature or even cold, do a few sprints/squats/burpees/jumping jacks to warm up first.
Lay your kit out. Get all your warm clothes ready and leave it in the order you’ll need it - you don’t want to be freezing and dripping and panicking because you can’t find your stuff.
Wear gloves, socks and a hat. Neoprene socks and gloves don’t weight much but they will make your swim a heck of a lot more comfortable.
Don’t jump in, especially if it’s cold. Wade in gradually, exhaling as you go. Splash cold water on your face and neck to get the shock out of the way.
Get warm! As soon as you get out of the water, dry yourself off and put warm clothes on. Have a hot drink. Get moving - practice those jumping jacks again. Don’t hang about half naked and frozen.
Shiver. Shivering violently is normal when you get out the water, it’s just your body telling you it didn’t appreciate being plunged into freezing cold water, and that’s its way of preventing the start of hypothermia. Don’t worry, just go back to #6.
So there you have it! Today’s post is short and sweet, a bit like the walk itself.
I know it’s not exactly a massive hike, but to me it’s a really special, beautiful place and I wanted to share it with you.
Andrew standing on a good little spot to sit.
Tioraidh!
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