Brecon Beacons Waterfalls

One of the joys of the Brecon Beacons are its waterfalls. They are spread thoughout the park and during periods of high rain they can turn into raging torrents. Yet on other days they become tranquil slow moving cascades. The most popular area is known as the 4 waterfalls walk. There are many other lesser known ones with equal charm but a lot less people!

4 Waterfalls Walk

Waterfall Country, known in Welsh as Coed-y-Rhaeadr (Wood of the Water),  lies within the triangle formed by the villages of Hirwaun, Ystradfellte, and Pontneddfechan. It is on the rivers Mellte, Hepste, Pyrddin and Nedd-Fechan, tributaries of the River Neath. Here, old red sandstone and a long belt of outcrop limestone have created a highly distinctive environment. There are wooded gorges, caves, swallow holes and waterfalls.

The area contains two Sites of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation. There are fine specimens of sessile oak and ash trees and over 200 species of mosses, liverworts, and ferns. It is also of historical significance, as it contains the legacy of man’s attempts to make a living from this landscape. It receives around 300,000 visitors a year, including walkers, outdoor groups, photographers, climbers, cavers and canoeists.

The most famous waterfall is Sgwd-y-Eira, the Snow Waterfall, on the River Hepste.  A natural path leads right behind the curtain of water.

There are many trails to follow including the circular walk taking in the 4 waterfalls walk which takes about 3-4 hours without rushing.

Blaen Y Glyn

Another waterfall area that is quite accessible is Blaen Y Glyn. This can be found up above Talybont Reservoir. There is an upper and lower carpark and the main walk is between the two following the river bank.

More in formation can be found on the Brecon Beacons Tourism site

Aberyscir Coach House – Brecon Beacons Guide