A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon at Rogie Falls, one of the Scottish Highlands' most beloved natural attractions, when a 23-year-old woman lost her life after falling into the water. Emergency services were called to the scene around 1:45 PM following reports of a woman in distress in the river that cascades through the falls.
Rogie Falls, located near the village of Contin in Ross-shire, is renowned for its dramatic waterfalls on the Black Water river. The falls, which plunge more than 13 meters, are a highlight of Scotland's North Coast 500 road trip, drawing tourists from across the globe to experience its breathtaking views and forest walks. A recently constructed suspension bridge offers visitors a spectacular vantage point over the rushing water below.
According to a Police Scotland spokesperson, "Around 1.45pm on Saturday, June 14, 2025, we were called to a report of a woman having fallen into water in the Rogie Falls area of Wester Ross. Emergency services attended; however, the 23-year-old was pronounced dead at the scene. There are no suspicious circumstances, and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal." This statement was echoed across multiple reports, confirming the absence of any foul play in the incident.
The woman, described as a tourist visiting the area, was reportedly with others when she fell into the water. The exact circumstances leading to her fall remain unclear, but the incident occurred during warm weather, which often sees an increase in visitors to the scenic spot.
In response to the emergency, a large-scale rescue operation was swiftly mounted. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deployed specialist watercraft, while the Dundonnell Mountain Rescue Team, HM Coastguard, a helicopter, and the Scottish Ambulance Service also joined the effort. Despite their rapid and coordinated response, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene, with the rescue operation concluding around 4:24 PM.
Rogie Falls’ reputation as a popular tourist destination is well-earned. The falls are situated about two kilometers northwest of Contin, adjacent to the A835 road, making them easily accessible. The Black Water river, which feeds the falls, is known for its powerful flow, especially after heavy rainfall or snowmelt from nearby Ben Wyvis. These conditions can make the area both beautiful and potentially hazardous, as the water rushes over jagged rocks and steep drops.
Visitors are drawn to the falls not only for their natural beauty but also for the surrounding forest walks and the experience of crossing the suspension bridge that spans the river below the falls. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with such environments, particularly near fast-moving water.
Local authorities have reiterated their commitment to safety and have urged visitors to exercise caution when exploring natural sites. The Procurator Fiscal will review the circumstances of the death, as is standard procedure in such cases.
This tragedy comes amid a weekend marked by other distressing events, including a fatal fire in Perth that forced around 40 residents from their homes. But at Rogie Falls, the loss of a young life has cast a somber mood over the community and visitors alike.
As Scotland continues to welcome tourists eager to explore its stunning landscapes, incidents like this highlight the importance of awareness and preparedness in the face of nature's unpredictable power. The memory of the young woman lost at Rogie Falls will undoubtedly prompt reflection on safety measures and the need to respect the sometimes perilous beauty of the Highlands.
