alva glen

Alva Glen is a gorge that was exploited during the industrial revolution to provide power for the town’s woollen mills. Fortunately nature has taken over the glen once more and little remains of the glen’s industrial past apart from an old dams, pipeline and moss covered stonework. As the visitor ascends the path initially on the eastern side of the gorge there is a profusion of plant species to observe and it is a haven for all sorts of interesting mosses, liverworts and of course accompanying birds that are taking advantage of the ground cover. The path up the glen is really spectacular, passing five waterfalls including the Craighorn Fall (23m) and the Big Fall, which is obscured from view until you enter the Smuggler’s Cave. You will need a head for heights if you are to make it as far as the Smuggler’s Cave and walking boots are strongly recommended. Much work has been done over the recent years by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust to make the glen more accessible and replant sections with native species. There is a special event held annually to illuminate the glen. It was first illuminated in 1937 to celebrate the coronation of George VI, a tradition which has over recent years been rekindled with great success. Alva Glen is definitely well worth a visit and has a unique mystical atmosphere which really has to be experienced at first hand.

We walked up to the big waterfall last week, if you have never been stick with it, it gets better the further up the glen you go. its a shame they have tried to block the last waterfall off due to unsafe railings but we just climbed over. we didnt make it to smugglers cave as my 62 YO dad was too tired but we walked for a good 2 hours there and an hour back. really beautiful

My friend and I travelled from Leven to Alva glen. The waterfalls are breathtaking, the glen has been undergoing renovations.The glen is managed by the Alva Glen Heritage Trust which is run entirely by volunteers. They regularly plant new tree and shrubs in the area as well as removing non-native species of plant. The walk itself takes you along side the stream up some steps which can be steep but worth it. There is a seat at the top of the glen which overlooks the ochil hills and valley. On a clear day you can see the Forth road bridge. Well worth a trip.

Started the walk up alva glen today (weather mixed showers and fine). There are now some information boards and new paths since my last visit, glen is looking good. Waterfalls are lovely and the path above the smugglers cave is hairy in places!! Stout boots and good head for heights required at the top!!! Below the zigzags tho its fine. Great day out.

Zeer mooi, ruige natuur en mooie watervallen. Lastig om te doen met kleine kinderen. Redelijk gevaarlijk pad op sommige momenten, maar zeker de moeite waard. Ervaren wandelaars kunnen nog een stuk hoger komen dan gezinnen met kinderen.