The Best Waterfalls in Wales – A Roadtrip

Wales is a country known for its rugged landscapes, ancient castles, and picturesque countryside. But what often steals the spotlight are its stunning waterfalls, which add an element of awe and beauty to its natural scenery. If you’re planning a road trip around the best waterfalls in Wales, you’re in for a treat! From hidden gems tucked away in forest glades to majestic waterfalls plunging into deep valleys, Wales offers a variety of spectacular falls that are just waiting to be explored. This blog post will guide you through a road trip of Wales’ best waterfalls, with detailed directions, descriptions, time estimates, and how to access each one.

Start Your Journey: Brecon Beacons National Park

A perfect starting point for your waterfall road trip is the Brecon Beacons National Park, located in the heart of South Wales. This area is famous for its rugged mountains, scenic valleys, and, of course, its waterfalls.

1. Sgwd yr Eira

Location: Brecon Beacons National Park Access: Pontneddfechan Time Taken: Approx. 1 hour

Begin your adventure at the breathtaking Sgwd yr Eira, also known as the “Waterfall of Snow.” This iconic waterfall in the Brecon Beacons is a must-see, particularly because you can walk behind the falls and experience the force of the water crashing down just inches away from you. The trail to reach Sgwd yr Eira is a moderate walk, taking around an hour to reach the falls from the Pontneddfechan village.

The path is a bit rugged and can be slippery when wet, but the view is worth the effort. The waterfall is part of a series of stunning waterfalls along the Nedd Fechan River, so if time allows, consider visiting the nearby Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn and Sgwd Clun-gwyn falls too, which are all located close by.

2. Henrhyd Falls

Location: Brecon Beacons National Park Access: Abercraf Time Taken: Approx. 1.5 hours

Not far from Sgwd yr Eira, you’ll find Henrhyd Falls, the tallest waterfall in the Brecon Beacons. Henrhyd Falls stands at an impressive 27 meters and is set in a beautiful wooded valley, giving it a magical and secluded feel. The waterfall is famously known for its appearance in films such as The Dark Knight Rises.

To reach Henrhyd Falls, head to the village of Abercraf and follow the well-marked path. The walk takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view as the waterfall tumbles down into a deep gorge. Make sure to take in the breathtaking surroundings and, if you’re feeling adventurous, get close enough to feel the refreshing spray of the waterfall.

Heading West: Pembrokeshire Coast

Next, make your way west towards the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast, a beautiful area known for its dramatic cliffs and coastal beauty. While not as widely known for its waterfalls as the Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire offers a few hidden waterfalls that are well worth the drive.

3. St. Govan’s Chapel and the Hidden Falls

Location: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Access: St. Govan’s Head Time Taken: Approx. 1.5 hours

While travelling towards St. Govan’s Chapel, which is a historic, isolated chapel built into the cliffside, take the time to explore the waterfall nearby. This is one of the hidden gems of Pembrokeshire. The waterfall is small but powerful, cascading down the cliffs next to the chapel. The area is remote, and the waterfall’s charm lies in the fact that it is tucked away and often overlooked by tourists.

Accessing it requires a short walk from the chapel down towards the coast, and you’ll be rewarded with not only a stunning waterfall but also dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The walk itself is peaceful and gives you the opportunity to truly experience the serenity of the Welsh coastline.

North to Snowdonia

Next, head north towards Snowdonia National Park, a treasure trove of natural wonders, including some of the most famous waterfalls in Wales.

4. Swallow Falls

Location: Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia Access: Betws-y-Coed Time Taken: Approx. 1 hour

One of Snowdonia’s most popular waterfalls, Swallow Falls, is located just outside the village of Betws-y-Coed. This stunning waterfall is formed by the River Llugwy and offers breathtaking views of the water tumbling down over rocks. The falls are easily accessible from the village, with a well-maintained footpath that leads you to a viewing platform. The site is also equipped with facilities for visitors, making it a perfect spot for a quick stop during your road trip.

Swallow Falls is one of the most photographed waterfalls in Wales, and for good reason—it’s a great spot to pause and take in the beauty of Snowdonia’s landscape.

5. Aber Falls

Location: Abergwyngregyn, Snowdonia Access: Abergwyngregyn Time Taken: Approx. 2 hours

Located near the village of Abergwyngregyn, Aber Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in North Wales, with a dramatic 37-meter drop. The waterfall is located at the head of a lush valley and is a fantastic hiking destination. To reach the falls, take the well-marked path from Abergwyngregyn village. The walk to Aber Falls takes approximately 45 minutes and takes you through beautiful woodland before revealing the stunning falls at the end.

Aber Falls is a perfect place to enjoy the natural beauty of Snowdonia and is particularly spectacular after rainfall when the waterfall is at its most powerful.

Final Stop: The Elan Valley

For your final destination, head towards the Elan Valley, a region known for its reservoirs and scenic beauty, as well as a number of stunning waterfalls.

6. The Elan Valley Waterfalls

Location: Elan Valley Access: Cwm Elan Time Taken: Approx. 2 hours

The Elan Valley Waterfalls is a series of falls scattered throughout the valley. This area is a hidden gem in Wales and is often less crowded than other popular waterfall spots. The Cwm Elan area is home to several beautiful waterfalls, including Blaen-y-cwm and Cwm Elan Falls, all accessible via a network of trails that wind through the valley. The falls here are varied, with some smaller, more delicate waterfalls and others that are more powerful, creating a perfect blend of sights.

The walk through the Elan Valley is about 3 miles long and takes approximately 2 hours to complete, depending on the pace. Along the route, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the surrounding hills and reservoirs. This peaceful location makes for an excellent end to your waterfall road trip.

Your Welsh Waterfall Road Trip

This road trip through Wales is an incredible way to explore the natural beauty of the country, from the rugged mountains of the Brecon Beacons to the serene valleys of Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire. Each waterfall offers its own unique beauty and charm, and together they create an unforgettable adventure. With well-maintained paths, scenic views, and plenty of opportunities for exploration, this road trip is perfect for waterfall lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, the waterfalls of Wales are waiting to be discovered. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure that will leave you awe-struck at the beauty of Wales’ natural wonders!

Featured Image by Jon Pauling from Pixabay