You may not have realised that Wales is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the UK. Due to the mixture of mountainous regions, rolling hills and woodlands, Wales provides an exciting variety of both calm and rugged scenery to explore. You can therefore discover a great range of waterfalls in Wales via trails which spiral around high cliffs and peaks, winding right the way down to the sea. 

So, whether you’re an experienced hiker, or more of a leisured nature walker, you will find the right trail for you, out of our top picks for the best waterfall trails in Wales.  

ABER FALLS

You may not have realised that Wales is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls in the UK. Due to the mixture of mountainous regions, rolling hills and woodlands, Wales provides an exciting variety of both calm and rugged scenery to explore. You can therefore discover a great range of waterfalls in Wales via trails which spiral around high cliffs and peaks, winding right the way down to the sea. 

So, whether you’re an experienced hiker, or more of a leisured nature walker, you will find the right trail for you, out of our top picks for the best waterfall trails in Wales.  

ABER FALLS

The Elidir Trail waterfall walk offers a rugged route with views of several waterfalls, including Sgwd Einion Gam, as well as ancient woodlands and abandoned silica mines – perfect for any cavers out there!

One of the most impressive falls on the trail, Sgwd Einion Gam is the second highest waterfall in Wales at just over 70 feet! 

This trail is best left to more experienced walkers, and will require the odd scramble, so sensible, supportive footwear and temperate clothing is advisable.

PISTYLL RHAEADR

A good trail for all skills levels, this walk takes you past the falls and then along a footpath running next to the Afon/River Rhaeadr.

Pistyll Rhaeadr is the largest waterfall in wales, standing at an impressive 240 feet, and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. It is often referred to as one of the tallest single drop waterfalls in the UK, however it actually falls in three stages, with the tallest being 40 meters. 

Nonetheless, as this impressive waterfall is free to visit, it definitely makes for a great family day out. 

SWALLOW FALLS

This is a easy trail, however there are steps down that are a little narrow and often slippery. This is more of a pay to view waterfall rather than a day out walking.

The Welsh name for this site is Rhaeadr Ewynnol, with ‘ewynnol’ having derived from ‘y wennol’, the first meaning ‘the swallow’ and the second referring to the ‘foaming’ of the river on the falls. Both truly describe the nature of this fall. 

Though the falls offer beautiful scenery all year round, they are most impressive during months of heaving rain, such as November or March. 

SGWD YR EIRA

A steady walk for all the family, the hike to Sgwd yr Eira provides a scenic route through woodlands from Pontneddfechan village, to a beautiful curtain of water. Some sections do require steeper stepping of roughly 1 foot in parts. 

What’s exciting about this fall is the footpath continues running behind the falls, so you can get up close and personal with the water. We advise that you wear waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes for this.

This waterfall is definitely one of the highlights of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Part of the Four Falls Walk, you can opt to extend you on-site visit should you wish. 

Completion time: Roughly 1 hour to the falls, 2 hours round trip including a walk behind the fall (see below).

THE FAIRY FALLS

These falls are abound in legend, having gained their name in the Victorian era following rumoured sightings of fairies in the area. One of our favourite Waterfalls in Wales.

Sat in the heart of Trefriw village, these enchanting falls are believed to have formed during the last Ice Age around 20,000 years ago. The largest falls are roughly 25 feet, and are most impressive following moderate rainfall.

The site is free to visit and offers an easy walkway along the river Crafnant, which is itself a tributary of the river Conwy.

You can park in the village, and wander back there for an evening bite at Chandlers Brasserie or The Old Ship pub.