Eas Fors

Eas Fors is a tiered waterfall on the west coast of the Isle of Mull in Argyll and Bute, Scotland, a few miles north of the village of Ulva Ferry and right beside the B8073. The burn drops in several stages towards the sea, and its lowest leap ends at the shore of Loch na Keal.

What does the name mean, and which Eas Fors is this?

The name says the same thing twice: Gaelic "eas" and Old Norse "fors" (foss) both mean waterfall. Mull has two places with this name. This one sits on the Allt an Eas Fors on the island's west side, while the other is on the Ardow Burn south of Dervaig. Check the coordinates when you plan your route so you don't head for the wrong one.

What will you see?

The falls come in three parts. The upper drops lie above the road and the middle ones just below it, while the lowest plunge is the showpiece: local guides put it at about 100 feet (30 m), dropping over a cliff towards the sea. It looks its best after rain, when the burn carries plenty of water. From below you also get views of the pebbly beach and the sea loch.

How do you get there?

The spot is not signposted, but pull-ins along the road are usually a sign you are close. The safest viewpoint for the lower fall is from the beach: walk a short way along the road towards Ulva Ferry, then follow the track along the stony shore. Guides describe the walk to the lower falls as taking no more than half an hour; the full out-and-back route is about 4 km (2 miles) with roughly 60 m of ascent and around an hour on foot. The final stretch along the beach can be submerged at high tide, so check tide times.

What should you watch out for?

There are no barriers at the top of the falls, and the grassy ground can be very slippery. Do not lean over the edge for a look down; the view from the beach is both safer and better. Bring waterproof footwear, as Mull's weather changes quickly.

When should you visit?

The waterfall is at its best after rainfall, which means often in autumn, winter and spring. In summer the flow can be much lighter, but the ground is drier. Aim for low tide so you can cross the beach without trouble.

What else is nearby?

You can combine Eas Fors with a trip to the island of Ulva (by boat from Ulva Ferry), the Ballygown shoreline, and a drive around northern Mull taking in Dervaig and Tobermory. It fits well into a full day by car with short walks.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee for Eas Fors? No. The falls are beside a public road and there is no charge.

How long is the walk? About half an hour to the viewpoint for the lower fall; the whole round trip takes around an hour.

Is it a hard walk? It is short, but the ground is uneven and the route follows a stony beach, so sturdy footwear is needed. Take real care near the edge.

Is this the same waterfall as Eas Fors near Dervaig? No. Mull has two waterfalls with this name. This one is on the west coast north of Ulva Ferry; the other is on the Ardow Burn south of Dervaig.