The Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Walk is a popular hiking route in the Brecon Beacons National Park in Wales, UK. This scenic trail takes you through lush forests, along picturesque rivers, and past a series of stunning waterfalls.
The walk offers a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Welsh countryside and enjoy the soothing sounds of flowing water.
Although the Brecon Beacons are known for their rolling hills and mountains, there are some stunning forest and waterfall walks to do.
The walk is situated in the southern part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, near the town of Merthyr Tydfil. The specific starting point and the route can vary, but the walk often begins near the village of Pontneddfechan.
The area is called “Waterfall Country”, which makes sense given all the waterfalls there.
Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Walk
The walk includes several notable waterfalls, each with its own unique characteristics.
The first waterfall you come to is Sgwd Clun-gwyn (Fall of the White Meadow), then Sgwd y Pannwr (Fall of the Fuller), followed by Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn (Lower Fall of the White Meadow), and ending with Sgwd yr Eira (Waterfall of Snow) which you can walk behind.
If you want to do a tour of the waterfalls and get some insider knowledge of the area then this one is highly recommended:
Four Falls Trail
This is the main Brecon Beacons waterfalls walk and is one of the best walks in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The walk is also the longest waterfall walk to do and one of the more strenuous.
The trail is well-marked with signs and waymarkers, making it relatively easy to follow. There are also designated viewing platforms and safe areas near the waterfalls for you to enjoy the scenery.
There are several options for where to start the trail and there is not much difference between them all. I recommend starting at Gwaun Hepste. The length of the Four Falls Trail can vary based on the route you choose and any additional exploration you might do as there are side trails you can explore.
On average, the loop trail is around 5 to 6 miles (8 to 10 kilometres) long and takes about 3 to 4 hours to complete at a moderate pace.
Along with the waterfalls, the trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, woodlands, and rocky landscapes. There are also opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the national park.
Sgwd Clun-gwyn is characterized by its picturesque cascade as water flows over the rocky ledge and into a pool below. The setting is tranquil, surrounded by the lush vegetation and rocky landscape of the national park.
Sgwd Clun-gwyn.
Sgwd y Pannwr is characterized by its elegant cascade. The surroundings are serene, like all of the Brecon Beacons waterfalls, and offer a peaceful and scenic atmosphere.
Sgwd y Pannwr.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn is notable for its cascade as it tumbles over the rocky ledge into a pool below. The “Lower Fall of the White Meadow” is known for its natural beauty and the tranquillity of the surrounding environment.
Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn.
Sgwd-yr-Eira is particularly famous on the Brecon Beacons Waterfalls Walk because you can walk behind it, creating a memorable and immersive experience.
This experience is quite magical and is one of the best things to do on the trail. The trail leading behind the waterfall can sometimes be slippery, so sturdy footwear and caution are advised.
The name “Waterfall of Snow” comes from the fine mist that’s created as the water cascades over the edge, resembling snowfall.
Sgwd-yr-Eira.
Walks in The Brecon Beacons
If you are going to the Brecon Beacons and want some different scenery from the usual hills, then definitely do the Brecon Beacons waterfalls walk.
If you are in London and want to escape into nature then head for some walks in Epping Forest just on the outskirts of the city.
For more on travel in Britain take a look at my guides for Britain.
I recommend using SafetyWing Travel Insurance for your trip, just in case, it’s best to be prepared.
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