Just south of Ystradfellte in the southern Brecon Beacons there is a patch of woodland, much of it a coniferous plantation. To the western edge, deciduous trees take hold, while, deep below, the rivers Mellte and Hepste can be heard roaring over a series of impressive waterfalls.
There are several walks through Waterfall Country, including the 5.5-mile Four Waterfalls Walk.
A waymarked trail from the Gwaun Hepste car park offers walkers the chance to see these waterfalls up close. The car park is payable by card only and is host to a small caravan serving snacks and hot drinks at weekends in the low season.
Walkers should be aware that the descents to the waterfalls from the main trail are quite challenging.
Looking for more walks in the area? Check out our routes up Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big.
Discover more walks in the Brecon Beacons
From spectacular hills and mountains to glistening waterfalls, rivers and lakes, the Brecon Beacons National Park (recently renamed Bannau Brycheiniog) in South Wales has something for everyone. Our guide reveals the best walks in the Brecon Beacons – each with an OS Map and route description.
Four Waterfalls Walk
5.5 miles/9km | 3–4 hours | challenging
1. Start
Leave the car park and walk south through conifer plantation, turning right where a sign points to the waterfalls. The falls are signposted from this main path.
2. Sgwd Clun-Gwyn
The first waterfall, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn (Fall of the White Meadow), is the easiest to see as the viewpoint is close to the path. It looks down on to the falls’ impressive drop from above.
Looking for something a bit shorter?
If you're looking for something a little shorter in Waterfall Country, why not try the mesmerising 2.5-mile Elidir Trail?
3. Sgwd y Pannwr and Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn
Sgwd y Pannwr (Fall of the Woollen Washer) and Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn (Fall of the Lower White Meadow) are reached via the next footpath. This is the longest descent and you have to return to the main path the way you came. Erosion has created a step-like formation in the rocks at the top of Sgwd y Pannwr next to which two tall oak trees stand.
4. Sgwd Yr Eira
Sgwd Yr Eira (Fall of Snow) is reached via a shorter descent from the main path than the previous two falls. Behind this spectacular waterfall, a band of shale in the sandstone has worn away, leaving a path that can be walked – with care – when the water flow is low. From Sgwd Yr Eira, return to the main path and follow the signs back to the car park.
Four Waterfalls Walk map
Four Waterfalls Walk route and map
Looking to upgrade your kit? Check out our expert guide to the best walking shoes.
