Wales is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient castles, and rich cultural heritage. From the rugged peaks of Eryri National Park, to its picturesque coastline, Wales is a magnet for adventurers. One of its most spectacular features is its incredible waterfalls, which serve as natural gems scattered throughout the country.
This blog post focuses on the top 5 waterfalls in Wales, each offering a unique and mesmerising experience. Several of these captivating waterfalls can be discovered in Waterfall Country within Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) in South Wales. From the awe-inspiring Henrhyd Falls, the tallest in South Wales, to the ethereal Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind the cascading water, each waterfall provides for an epic day out.
So join me in this blog post as I guide you through all you need to know about the TOP 5 waterfalls that adorn the Welsh countryside.
1. Aber Falls (Rhaeadr Fawr), Abergwyngregyn
Height: 120 feet (36.58 metres)
Location: Tumbling down the foothills of Carneddau Range, Aber Falls offers a breathtaking spectacle amidst the Welsh countryside.
English Translation: Big Waterfall
Accessibility: Accessible for wheelchairs/pushchairs
Nestled in the far north of Snowdonia National Park, Aber Falls is an impressive and beautiful waterfall situated at the northern foothills of the Carneddau. As Afon Goch (the Red River) nears its final descent to the Menai Straits, it plunges dramatically from a height of 37m crashing into a shallow rocky pool before gracefully continuing its journey towards the village of Abergwyngregyn.
To get to Aber Falls, follow the well-trodden trail that leads from the car parks up to the waterfall.
For the full trail guide click HERE.
2. Pistyll Rhaeadr, Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant
Height: 240 feet (73.15 metres)
Location: As the tallest single-drop waterfall in Wales, Pistyll Rhaeadr graces the Berwyn Mountains with its majestic presence.
English Translation: Spring of the Waterfall
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs/pushchairs
Pistyll Rhaeadr, located in mid Wales, is renowned for its impressive height as the highest single-drop waterfall in Wales. Nestled in the Berwyn mountains, it draws visitors from around the world.
With a vertical drop of approximately 73m, the waterfall's descent down the rocky face creates a striking visual display. Standing before the waterfall, the tranquil sounds of nature from the surrounding hills provide a serene ambiance, perfect for contemplation. Whether observed from a distance or experienced up close, Pistyll Rhaeadr offers an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Wales.
To reach Pistyll Rhaeadr, travel to the village of Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant. The journey unfolds through picturesque countryside, gradually revealing the grandeur of the waterfall.
For the full trail guide click HERE.
3. Sgwd yr Eira, Brecon Beacons
Height: 50 feet (15.24 metres)
Location: Tucked away in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park, Sgwd yr Eira offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing adventurous souls to walk behind its veil of cascading water.
English Translation: Falls of Snow
Explore the renowned Sgwd yr Eira in the Brecon Beacons' Waterfall Country with the Four Falls Trail. Sgwd yr Eira, boasting a broad 15m drop, stands out as a distinctive gem in this cascade-laden landscape. What sets this waterfall apart is the opportunity it presents: to walk behind the curtain of water. To fully enjoy this experience, be prepared with a decent waterproof jacket and sturdy, grippy shoes, especially after a heavy rain, as you might find yourself rather wet otherwise! For this immersive encounter with nature, pack a reliable waterproof jacket and sturdy, grippy shoes, especially after heavy rainfall.
The Four Falls Trail, a well-marked 7km circular route starting from the Gwaun Hepste car park near Ystradfellte, takes you through ancient woodlands. The trail includes Sgŵd y Pannwr, Sgŵd Isaf Clun-gwyn, and Sgŵd Clun-gwyn making it a full day of chasing waterfalls.
4. Henrhyd Falls, Coelbren
Height: 90 feet (27.43 metres)
Location: Hidden within the lush Brecon Beacons, Henrhyd Falls is not only picturesque but also the largest waterfall in South Wales.
English Translation: Old Ford Falls
Henrhyd Waterfall stands as the crown jewel of Waterfall Country in the Brecon Beacons National Park and is one of the top 5 waterfalls in Wales! Soaring to a height of approximately 27 meters, it claims the title of the tallest waterfall in South Wales.
You may recognise it from hvaing featured in the film Batman: The Dark Knight Rises, where it served as the entrance to the iconic Batcave. Director Christopher Nolan chose Henrhyd Falls as the exterior of Batman's secret hideout, and in the movie's concluding scenes, actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt can be seen gazing towards the majestic waterfall.
This spectacular natural wonder, particularly enchanting after a period of heavy rain, is a must-visit if you find yourself in the region. The Henrhyd Falls walk commences from the National Trust car park just north of Coelbren village. Explore the captivating beauty of the tallest waterfall in South Wales, immersed in the picturesque landscapes of the Brecon Beacons National Park.
For the full trail guide click here.
5. Sgwd Gwladys, Brecon Beacons
Height: 20 feet (6.10 metres)
Location: Embraced by the verdant Brecon Beacons, Sgwd Gwladys is situated in Waterfall Country, South Wales
English Transaltion: Lady Falls
Embark on a journey through one of Neath Port Talbot's ecologically significant areas, 'Coedydd Nedd a Mellte.' The starting point of this walk is clearly marked near The Angel Inn; simply proceed through the black gates labeled 'Waterfall Country.' This is a brief and uncomplicated stroll leading to the breathtaking Sgwd Gwladys Falls. Exercise caution in areas where the path traverses above steep river banks.
The trail traces the historical route once taken by horse-drawn drams in the early 19th century to transport silica rock from the mines. You'll encounter visible remnants of this era, including one of the mines adjacent to the path. Additionally, the remains of a double race mill, once utilized by farmers to grind corn, are visible, with one of the mill stones situated in the bank above the path. After crossing the river bridge, continue your journey on the opposite side of the river towards the falls. The name Gwladys is said to have originated from one of the numerous daughters of Brychan, the 5th-century King of Brycheiniog.
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Happy adventuring!
Janire xo