Tag: waterfalls

Rambling on Together: An Extended Waterfall Adventure

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12 April 2025
Distance: 15.88 km
Elevation Gain: 420 m


Route: Dinas Rock → Pull Berw → Sgwd yr Eira → Sgwd y Pannwr → Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn → Sgwd Clun Gwyn → Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf → Sgwd y Bedol → Sgwd Gwladus

A week ago today, a group of us (Kerry, Gary, Johnny and I) embarked on an early morning adventure, setting off at 06:30 and arriving at Dinas Rock before 09:00, with a brief coffee and convenience stop in Merthyr Tydfil.

The plan was to walk an extended version of the Four Waterfalls Walk, and it delivered as we saw over 10 waterfalls.

We started the walk with a steep couple of climbs!



Our journey began with  Pull Berw, a serene introduction to the cascading wonders ahead.

The path to Sgwd yr Eira was both challenging and rewarding.

We witnessed some smoke and flames, along a ridge in the distance – wildfires. It’s sobering reminder of nature’s fragility.

Walking behind the curtain of water at Sgwd yr Eira was a highlight, offering a unique perspective of nature’s power.
Then we faced the 170 steps back up the path that tested our endurance.



The trail continued to Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, where a steep scramble added an element of adventure.

Lunch at Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf provided a moment of respite, accompanied by the soothing sounds of flowing water…until a lot of families arrived and we felt it was time to move on.

We then left the Four waterfalls area and headed onto the Elidir trail.

A delightful detour to Clyngwyn Farm Bunkhouse and Café offered a sweet treat. I had an ice cream. The misspelt “Barra brith” on the menu brought a chuckle(I need to learn not to correct people on spelling in their own language!), but the warm hospitality and delicious offerings made it a memorable stop.

The next stretch, past some farms and along a stream up to Pont Melin Fach didn’t feature waterfalls but was really pleasant and picturesque along the steam.

There started the new streak of Waterfalls – we saw the sixth waterfall of the day: Sgwd Ddwli Uchaf. And then so many that we stopped counting…


A surprise awaited us at Sgwd y Bedol—a lone swimmer embracing nature in its purest form! We didn’t need these sights! I’ll spare you the photo of the man to keep his privacy… But to be fair I don’t think he had any concerns about keeping himself private at all!

The final stretch led us to Sgwd Gwladus, where we once again walked behind the waterfall, just after an unexpected slip reminded me of the trail’s unpredictability. I didn’t get hurt. Just my ego bruised!

The Bannau Brycheiniog never ceases to amaze. Each waterfall, each path, and each unexpected moment contributed to a day filled with laughter, awe, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

I’d been there twice before but each time it feels different and looks different, depending on the seasons and the company.

Sharing this experience with Kerry, Gary, and Johnny made it all the more special.

Next walk will be more local.

Llwybr Llechi Eryri – Day 6, Rhiwbach quarry to Betws-y-Coed

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I woke up with the dawn chorus, feeling quite cold, and when looking outside, fog was covering all those beautiful views from last night. I warmed up with my breakfast (porridge and hot chocolate) and slowly started getting ready and packed for the day ahead. It was my last night out in the wild, and I had to pack this tent still damp from the mist. One thing that disgusted me was finding a slug on top of my sleeping bag! Yuck. I guess it got in the tent while I made and ate breakfast. It’s been a great experience but I don’t think I’m made for the fully outdoors life! I’m glad I did this for the last few days and got an experience unlike any others. But I’ll be glad not to have to carry my house with me everywhere after that 🐌.




When I woke up, I’d say the visibility was about 100m. By the time I set off, it had improved. Looking at my map, I estimated about 300m visibility. It improved as I walked along. I tried to keep a good pace to keep myself warm. I had all the layers and gloves, but it was a little windy and still cold.

I wore compression socks last night, and it may be the reason, but my right calf didn’t hurt as in previous days; I was especially conscious of it in the steep descent to Cwm Penmachno. It was pain-free.



The Eagles in Penmachno was closed and seemed to only open for evening meals, so I purchased some food and a big bottle of water at the Londis. I topped up my now empty Camelback and found a bin by the bus stop to throw the bottle away.

I found it hard to find directions out of Penmachno. Maybe tiredness or maybe I missed the signage? Then I climbed above Penmachno to the forest edge and carried on along the forest track for quite a while. I felt stronger, and my pace improved.

I saw some waterfalls, and then, as I planned to stop in the car park by the crossroads before the Conwy Falls for lunch, I realised there was a lovely café.
It felt like luxury. The café owners/workers were so lovely. The all-day veggie breakfast was delicious, and there was a charging point where I topped up my power pack. I had two americanos, and the sun came out while I waited. The toilets were very clean and boasted a shower cubicle, which is worth knowing for wild campers, I guess? Not that I recommend wild camping here as it’s a busy car park!



At this point, I made the decision to end my Llwybr Llechi Eryri walk at Betws-y-Coed today. It’s been wonderful, but being tired, I don’t think I should push it further. I decided I would return by public transport to my booked accommodation from there. With that in mind, I decided to take my time and enjoy the Conwy Falls. It was £2, so be prepared to pay if you ever go there. I was just surprised, but I do understand contributions help keep the place safe and sustainable. The sun had come out to play, which made it a very lovely stroll. The falls were so impressive and powerful!


I was a little tired after the stroll around the woods. I took a break by the café and then set off for my last stretch from Conwy Falls to Betws-y-Coed. What a wonderful calming walk. It was sunny, but the tree-lined paths made it so pleasant. I arrived in Betws-y-Coed just before 16:30 and sat on a bench in the park, contemplating what I achieved in the last few days, before heading to the train/bus station.


I perhaps will come back one day and walk from Betws-y-Coed to Bethesda.

My advice

– Plan for all weathers! Overall I was lucky with the weather but it gets cold and windy in places.
– Prepare to tackle hills. They are everywhere. But no rush, you can enjoy it and look around by slowing down. Also, the more you walk hills, the easier it gets.
– Travel light: I had my struggles but anyone who’s more reasonable than me would not do it camping , by staying in accommodation and getting support/lifts + not carrying a heavy pack. Having a lighter bag would massively have improved my pace.
– You need to like sheep a lot 🐑  😆 they will be everywhere!
– Don’t be scared to walk through mud and waterlogged ground. Get proper waterproof boots (mine are expensive but didn’t let me down a single time).
– Check your route before you go. Bring a map / make sure you have basic navigation skills in case you are in low visibility or in wilder areas with fewer signposts.
– Have sufficient water and food.
– Finally, enjoy! You don’t have to do the whole route. Do take detours to see sights you like. My favourite part hands up was Beddgelert to Nantmor. It’s short but challenging.
I also loved the Bwlchgwernog area, just before Croesor.

For those of you who live in the area, go enjoy the beauty you have in your doorstep 💚


I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these walk reports. I hope it inspires some of you to spend time outdoors, be it for your own adventures, on this trail or elsewhere, or a day out in your local area. Feel free to ask me questions if I can help. I might not know the answer but I will try to help/ find out.

Being with nature is wonderful for the soul. Try it more often.

So what’s next?

I will be walking a marathon between Winchester and Salisbury on 2nd June in aid of Julia’s House Children’s hospice. If you can and would like to contribute, here is the fundraising page.

After that, I am tackling the Edale Skyline challenge with my friend Andrea mid-June (20 miles in 8h – not sure I can do that!). I’ll try to blog about this. Then my walking adventures will be on a break until late October while I train for my first-ever half marathon. (Scary)

Diolch Eryri am yr antur! Wela’i di wedyn!

And with this, I wish you all happy rambling.

You can’t add days to your life, but you can add life to your days.

Llwybr Llechi Eryri – Day 5, Llan Ffestiniog to Rhiwbach quarry

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I wasn’t feeling at my best this morning. I woke up with a headache (and a bit of a nosebleed but it didn’t last – I think it’s just sinusitis-kike symptoms) and remember having had very vivid stressful dreams.

My legs felt rested. My battery packs were not  full because the charger was super slow and only had one USB slot on it.

I had porridge and  hot chocolate. I also took antihistamines and paracetamol.

As I was packing my bag, I realised I broke my sunglasses which isn’t ideal. I guess that’s  something else not to carry but what a shame.

I  went to the corner shop (opened at 8am) to buy a couple of things before I headed off and left Llan Ffestiniog around 08:30.



The plan today was to walk to Penmachno.
It is a hilly challenging 13+ miles with a 5km stretch which the guide describes as the “wildest of the entire Trail” (also part of Migneint site of special scientific interest).

The first part of the walk was absolutely beautiful : Ceunant Cynfal nature reserve.
I walked past many waterfalls, lovely oak trees covered in moss, bluebells, etc. the main attraction is the Rhaeadr Cynfal waterfall.

Walking from Llan Ffestiniog to the viaduct, at a leisurely pace, stopping for photos of waterfalls, oak trees, moss and bluebells, took 1h.

I had been feeling quite tired, headachey and hungry. I stopped in the woods to eat salted cashews, drink water and take two ibuprofen (I had paracetamol this morning).
I knew there was a bit of hill climbing ahead today so  I took it at an easy pace.



I walked to the Fferm cwm (ancient building).
Then the hill that followed was vety hard work but rewarded by the beautiful waterfall once you reach the first top.
The path keeps climbing thereafter until you reach the road.
The terrain was also difficult with wet ground and clumps of grass. Watch your ankles!
My right calf was sore so it’s been hard work.

From there it’s well signed. I stopped after the crossing to send messages in case there is no signal later. I had food as it was lunch time.

Tiredness started to be felt at that point. My eyes wanting to shut and rest so I put on my fleece, laid on my backpack and slept for five minutes. I needed that rest.
I went on to Llyn y Morynion. It was beautiful. Sadly it was spoilt by the engine noise of a truck/car. Someone from Welsh Waters was sat there in the car space, with their engine on.

Electric lamb?


I carried past the dam and went past two small slate derelict houses. I followed what seemed the track only to realise I was slightly off track. I got my marks looking around and found the gate. Interestingly when I got there, it was the other side of the fence!

When I got stuck out the gate.
Gate conquered


So I took off my bag and climed over.
Another win for the confidence:)

I walk past the bryn y Castell (ancient fort) and up the hill , following the fence. I stopped for an afternoon snack and watch battery top-up by a little lake (on the other side of the fence). It was good to stop to check the route ahead.

Stile in disrepair
Amazed at the natural bubbles that kept forming


Straight after my break followed a lot of wet ground and I escaped sinking a couple of times; I made my way up then down hill to reach the road. I sat on the slate bridge for a minute – chatting on the phone with my daughters. Then I took on THE hill towards the slate plant. Steep road. It took me 30 minutes to reach the plant, helped by playing a bit of music too. I thought it was a good effort. Never skip leg day at the gym or interval hill training at the running club!


I walked around the corner from the slate plant, toward the disused communication towers and arrived on top of Rhiwbach quarry. What a view!

Not impressed by climbing that road for 30 min straight



My legs have given up so I stopped here for the night. Just a few meters from the path, as I don’t want to be around any mineshafts.
I cooked dinner, drank peppermint tea and I’m ready to sleep.
I walked for 9 hours and saw nobody else walking.  Not even dog walkers.


Tomorrow will take me to Penmachno and hopefully Betws-y-coed. This is likely my last day of walking so I probably won’t complete the whole trail back to Bethesda. But I’m glad I walked this far already and I’m in awe of how amazing Eryri is.

Llwybr Llechi Eryri – Day 4, Croesor to Llan Ffestiniog

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I was woken up by two cars around 2:50 am. They asked if I was okay and the conversation went:
“Have you guys been in the mine?”
I went “no, I’m on the Slate Trail and it was late so I camped… Are you the landowner?” (Thinking I needed to move on)
– si you’re just camping? No, we’re Mountain Rescue! Are you okay?
– yes, just asleep! 😆
The guy tapped my hand as I saw his mountain rescue jacket.  They went on in their cars.
I feel stupid because I was half asleep and it felt like a ridiculous situation. I hope whoever they were there for is safe.
It was super windy out there.


They passed by again at 4:30 am, and wished me good morning!
I got up at 5:20 am, made hot chocolate and porridge, and enjoyed the dawn chorus.

Feeling tired but upbeat enough, I ate breakfast and freshened up (with wipes!). I hoped to break camp before 7 am. Checking my Camelback water levels, I found I had more than I thought for the day. I left a little after 7 am and started the walk with a big slope, feeling cold until I reached a sunny spot. The sounds of nature (no cars etc) were amazing.

Taking a break at 470m altitude, I had a protein bar for a snack.
I climbed about 215m in the first hour or so. I only did a mile in an hour. Little did I know at that point that it would be my pace the whole day.
It was so beautiful up there.
It was hard to see the path amidst the ruined houses, and then I spotted two cars with tent boxes, and wondered how they got there considering the terrain but also perhaps if that was related to the mountain rescue in the night. The climb up Croesor quarry was challenging but rewarding.


I reached the highest point in the trail. It was amazing.
I had climbed 280m in 1h30 since I started this morning. That was only 1.3 miles but hard with the climb!
According to my watch, I got to 541m altitude. The weather was perfect. I took photos and could see the tiredness in my eyes.
I took my jacket and fleece off and applied sunscreen.



I walked the wrong way for a bit at the Croesor quarry but eventually went past the waterfall and slowly (it was so hard to go down in the slate slope) got down to the bottom, then to the Lakeside café in Tanygrisiau.
I had a veggie full English and coffee and got a litre of water for my pack. I forgot to get my Llwybr Lechi Eryri passport stamped, for one I was in one of the places who can do it.
After a meal and replenishing my water supply, I continued towards Blaenau Ffestiniog.



Encountering blocked paths and abandoned cars, the journey became less pleasant. However, the view improved as I approached Blaenau Ffestiniog. Just before Blaenau Ffestiniog, encountering six boys walking with cans of drinks and with a shovel echoed a vibe from the movie “Stand by Me.”



Arriving in Blaenau Ffestiniog, I stocked up on water and purchased a USB charging plug. It was such a long slog between Blanau Ffestiniog and Llan Ffestiniog. The path is definitely the scenic route. It was hot and I kept stopping. I was doing an average of a mile per hour only. But it was pretty.
I didn’t see a soul walking between Blanau and Llan Ffestiniog at all. A lot of sheep. A ewe and two lambs even walked with me for a bit.
This is where I really started to have tired legs. I was checking my phone for options, ready to call it a day when I get to Llan Ffestiniog.



I’ve passed Pengwern Old Hall farm. The area is beautiful but I was then suffering so much (legs were sore and I looked like I was limping even though I wasn’t ) that I didn’t feel I was enjoying this to the fullest.
I’m a grown-up strong independent woman but at that specific point, and until I was in the pub in Llan Ffestiniog, I wanted to throw a tantrum, and just sit on the floor and stay where I was. But I knew I needed to carry on to Llan Ffestiniog at least if I hoped to find accommodation.

As I approached Llan Ffestiniog through the woods, rehearsing in my head how to ask for help for campsite/ B&B and charging for my phone in Cymraeg, I slowed down (even more if that was possible) and did get to appreciate how special and beautiful this place is. The gorgeous woods with moss and low-level shrubs, tall trees, and the noise of the waterfall below. I wondered how come I got this place to myself on a bank holiday – I’d expect locals to come and enjoy it here. It’s so lovely.

An irrefutable sign that I was approaching the town is the whistle of the steam train.
My legs were starting to feel the relief as I could picture stopping for the day.



Those last hills were tough in the woods and then in the field on the way up to Llan Ffestiniog were so tough!
Also, one more part of my left shoulder strap broke on my backpack.



Then this…



Okay, I did slide it over but it wasn’t stretching so I had to hold the gate up to do it.
I don’t mind some challenges but I’m exhausted. This shouldn’t feel like I’m in an episode of Survivor!

I went across the field, uphill, aiming for the walking path post I could see by a gate… Unfortunately, it wasn’t a gate, it was a wooden gate in front of wire. I couldn’t summon the energy to walk back down the field and back up. So I climbed over. It must have been a sight! I wasn’t confident at all! But I did it and also got my foot stuck in the wire and had to entangle myself.
I was all full of dirt by then.



And yet there was a bit more to climb to go to the pub.
I asked for a drink in Cymraeg and also asked if they had rooms for the night and got told no.
I looked on my phone and decided to attempt to call the Treks bunkhouse which was about 30 min walk away.
The owner explained he was fully booked with groups but to try the Pengwern which is where I just got told no. I checked and it was the same place.
I told him they had no room so he asked me to walk back there. He explained he helped run the place and they should take walk-ins. He came over, got them to get me a room and I paid £45 for the night. Such a relief. I couldn’t walk any further today.


I am at that point in the walk I was at on Hadrian’s Wall when I nearly gave up. Similar distance and number of days. I know I can do it but it’s about resting tonight and starting afresh tomorrow.

I’m sat on the window ledge with a cup of peppermint tea, writing this up, after I’ve had a shower. Such luxury. I found hot water to make a meal (pasta) with the last of my chorizo.  I’m charging my power packs, too. I look forward to being warned and feeling better tomorrow!


So it’s goodnight from me.

Llwybr Llechi Eryri – Day 3, Talymignedd Isaf campsite to Croesor

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As I started day 3, I expected a slow day, aiming for 12 to 15 miles. I woke around 2:30 am to a beautiful night sky, though my camera couldn’t capture it. After getting up  properly at 6 am, I delayed getting out of my sleeping bag due to the cold and fatigue.

After breakfast and chatting with other campers, Martin, a keen hiker and mountain leader, offered me coffee and introduced me to his wife Fran who walked across Iceland. We discussed hiking, with Martin diagnosing me as “insane” due to the weight if my bag! That’s about right.

I set off around 9 am, enjoying the sunny climb and later with majestic views of Yr Wyddfa and glimpses of the sea.



Descending to Rhyd Ddu, I stopped at a pub for a chocolate bar and apple juice before heading slowly to Beddgelert.

Despite enjoying the woods, I felt mentally fatigued. Concerns about finding accommodation and essentials like water and power troubled me. At Beddgelert, I couldn’t find anywhere to top up my power packs but charged up my devices on the charge I had left.  Refueling at a café (bara brith and coffee ) improved my mood and I started to feel brighter as I walked along the riverbank, feeling refreshed. Even my bag didn’t feel that heavy.



The day’s path was drier overall. I had occasional cloudy weather but mostly sunny.

This is when I had what is perhaps the best mile I walked in my life.

Negotiating boulders and paths over the side of the river was exhilarating. Despite the challenges, I felt happier and more confident.

It goes to show about impermanence of situations. I’m not saying you should always push through  but having a go at the next step before giving up is so important because you don’t know what’s around the corner.  In my case from being tired and wanted to call it a day to exhilarating happy moments on the trail.

Hiking is always here to remind me of these life lessons.

Passing through Nantmor and Bwlchgwernog, I struggled to find a suitable camping spot due to wet ground.



Also, after the fun buzzing part, I had a “moment” of awe when in a proper wild unspoiled area with majestic views.
I’m very lucky to have experienced this.

Eventually, I pitched my tent on a windy hillside above Croesor.

Limited phone connectivity made communication difficult, but I managed to send some messages before struggling to keep warm and falling asleep around 11 pm.

You won’t believe what happened in the night… Wait until the next blog, later on, you will have a good laugh at me!

Day 1 – Llwybr Llechi Eryri (Snowdonia Slate Trail): Embracing the Unexpected

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Yesterday marked the start of my hike along the Snowdonia Slate Trail, a day of surprises, scenic wonders, and a mix of challenges and small wins.

Setting off on the train to Newport, I found myself chatting with the station staff, setting a cheerful tone for the day ahead. I had to find a fix (a headband) for my backpack’s loose buckle. I switch trains at Newport for the Transport for Wales train, (it had USB charging points!) and announcements in Welsh, adding an immersive touch to the journey.

Interestingly the toilet felt like a TARDIS and kept talking 😆 “door closed”…

Chatting with other passengers was lovely and the lady selling food and drinks explained the voice for announcements is called “Digital Doris” amongstbthe staff.

Arriving in Bangor, I stepped onto the trail, greeted by a picturesque bike path in the woods and by penrhyn castle. Yet, amidst the beauty, I couldn’t help but notice the reality of homelessness under the bridge (someone clearly lives there)—a stark reminder of the world’s complexities.

I kept walking, and the scenery got better – fields full of sheep and adorable baby lambs, and I stumbled upon a lovely spot with bluebells nestled between a couple of trees.

Then, along the fence next to the A55, it got a bit muddy in places, but the wooden path kept it wild enough. I couldn’t help but notice the cars zooming by through the bushes and trees – even played “yellow car”, just for fun.

After that, I struggled over and over again through kissing gates as my pack was too big for them.  Taking my bag off, lifting it over the gate, going through, putting my bag back on, walking the length of the field, and starting again…). It slowed me down a lot and was tiring. 

Despite the hurdles (pun intended), the journey was punctuated by moments of wonder, from the smell of wild garlic to the breathtaking views atop Charub quarry. Pushing onward towards Bethesda, I struggled with fatigue and the weight of my pack. I was on my own all day. No other hikers on the trail. Just a few dog walkers in towns.

Deciding against indulging in a warm meal and pint in Bethesda, I carried on past Bethesda. The quaint station caught my eye with its charming architecture, providing a brief respite before pushing onwards.

Leaving the town behind, I hoped for smoother terrain to pitch my tent. A massive hill loomed before me, challenging my resolve, but the breathtaking views and wildlife sightings offered ample reward.

Saw another yellow car!

Fortunately, the weather held, sparing me from the rain as I navigated through marshy, boggy ground and crossed streams with caution.

I pressed on, guided by a mix of determination and optimism. As dusk approached, I faced the daunting task of finding a suitable spot to pitch my tent. My first option was under power lines, so I moved on.

With limited options and the threat of rain looming, I made a quick decision, settling for a rocky patch near a house.With the worst of the pitching behind me, I treated myself to a comforting meal of pasta and a hot chocolate, a well-deserved reward after a challenging day on the trail.

Richard later shared, it was Judith’s birthday yesterday – I think she’d have like my little adventure.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of my journey in Snowdonia.

Preparing for Adventure: Two Hikes in Gloucestershire and Fan Brycheiniog

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In the lead-up to my upcoming Snowdonia Slate Trail adventure, I embarked on two amazing hikes that not only served as preparation but also filled my soul with joy and anticipation for the trails ahead.

Firstly, I ventured to Coaley Peak and Woodchester Valley loop, accompanied by the indomitable Andrea. Amidst the verdant woods and rolling hills, we indulged in a morning of hiking, sprinkled with a dash of trail running to outrun a passing tractor in the vineyard – an adventure filled with laughter, sunshine, and the simple pleasures of nature. It was a reminder of why the great outdoors is my happy place, and I eagerly look forward to more moments like these.



Next, I tackled  Fan Brycheiniog, standing tall at 802m in the heart of Wales. Joined by ten fellow trekkers (from our Iceland trek) and two canine companions, Bear & Daisy, the day was nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the initial steep incline and an unexpected detour along the way, our journey was marked by camaraderie, breathtaking vistas, and the shared joy of overcoming challenges.

As I reflected on our Iceland trek and the resilience it demanded, conquering Fan Brycheiniog felt like a tribute to our determination and spirit of adventure. Each step reminded me of the incredible community of trekkers and supporters rallying behind Prospect Hospice, spurring me onward to embrace new challenges and make a difference.



With memories of these two unforgettable hikes fueling my excitement, I’m ready to embark on the Snowdonia Slate Trail, embracing the unknown with open arms and a heart full of anticipation. Here’s to the adventures that lie ahead, the friendships forged on the trails, and the endless possibilities waiting to be discovered amidst the beauty of nature.

Let the journey begin. 🏔️💚

Fighting the through-hike blues: a solo hike on the Ystradfellte four waterfalls trail

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The route

Just over a week has passed since my return from the Hadrian’s Wall Path walk, and I’ve been grappling with a weird sense of lethargy, perhaps a bit of post-hike blues. The thrill of the through-hike adventure had probably spiked my dopamine levels, and its abrupt end (+ a busy work week) left a void. To fill this, last night, I turned to the OS map, packed my bag, and decided to embark on another (smaller) journey – this time to Wales.

OS map for Ystradfellte area

After leaving the main road, the drive towards Ystradfellte was nothing short of surreal. The last two miles were through a landscape filled with low ferns and roaming sheep; it felt eerie. It was a scene straight out of a painting. It was starting to rain.

With a much smaller and lighter backpack than last week, I decided to hit the trail immediately, hoping for the clouds to part soon. My pack held the essentials – 1.5L of water, first aid kit, some food, spare socks, sun cream ( over-optimistic anticipation of the sun), and my battery pack. Equipped only with my fleece and cap for weather protection (I forgot my rain jacket), I stepped onto the trail.

Walking alongside a wall feels quite familiar 🙂



The trail to the waterfalls was a stark reminder of the impermanence of nature. The once healthy trees that lined the path looked damaged and diseased, a stark contrast from my visit almost two years ago. Their plight was painfully evident when compared to the picture that is on the main header of my site.

But the journey must go on, and it led me to the first waterfall, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, just after 10 o’clock. A serene stroll through a valley and a charming forest lead to this stunning waterfall, where the River Mellte gushes towards a drop and disappears below the cliff edge.



The drizzle persisted, making the stones leading to the waterfall viewing spot slippery. But, it was warm, and the drizzle was strangely refreshing.



Next came Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, a charming waterfall, secluded amongst woodland. The journey to it involved descending several flights of steep, muddy stairs, leading to a river nestled on a bed of black rock.

Following a muddy trail over the river from Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, I reached the highest waterfall, Sgwd y Pannwr. The sounds of rushing water could be heard before the fall even became visible. It flows down elegantly, step by step into the riverbed, a sight that leaves you in awe of its beauty. I love being by water and this felt just right.

I then went onto Sgwd yr Eira, the final and the largest waterfall on the trail. The descent to this waterfall was steep but with steps so not as strenuous. It rewarded me with a stunning view of the waterfall rushing down, a bit like a white veil. You can walk behind the curtain of cascading water! It felt very special.I didn’t get to experience this last time I visited so this was great!

After the short climb from the top of the fourth waterfall, I returned to the car park. In total the walk was just under 3 hours, covering 8.5km. The grey weather persisted, with fog and mist still hanging over the valley. But it was warm, and the drizzle was not an issue.



Deciding to make the most of my visit, I then went down to the cave, from the car park. The shift in temperature was noticeable as I descended the steps, the cold air bringing back childhood memories of visiting caves. Although it was getting busy and the car parks were full for the waterfalls walk, I had the cave to myself, engulfed in silence. It’s likely a place more suited for experienced visitors and maybe I wasn’t allowed to be there.



As I drove away from the valley, the weather decided to surprise me. Just a mile from the car park, I was greeted with beautiful skies and lovely sunny weather.

My next stop was Penderyn, where I picked up a present for a friend’s birthday. For anyone who enjoys a good whisky, I highly recommend stopping here. The lady in the shop was very helpful, and they offer visits every open hour, seven days a week.

On my way home, I stopped at Merthyr Tudful to charge my car and grab lunch.

This trip was a much-needed respite, but the next few weeks are going to be busy. My next hike might not be until late July, but I’ll post again soon about my plans for my next through-hike. Until then, keep exploring the outdoors!

Ystradfellte: the four waterfalls walk

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Walked with: Rod, James and Missy.

How I got there: car.

Map: https://www.strava.com/activities/6018335114

This was a trial hike in a few different ways. My first hike in a while, the first one I decided to document and the first one I tried to take photos on the DSLR camera (Nikon) rather than my phone.

We set off a couple of hours later than planned and arrived at Ystradfellte at about 12:00. I’d hoped to park at the pub The New Inn so we could eat there on the way back but the pub has clear signs not to park there, and it was closed. We’d passed a car park but that had a sign indicating it was full so we drove further and ended parking in a farmer’s field (they charged us £5 for the day) near the official parking called Cwm Porth. ///testy.different.chestnuts

There a cool cave, worth a look at before you start the walk. It’s called Porth yr Ogof and it’s just below the car park in the woods: ///rope.neon.mealtime

We then set off on the walk.
At this point, it’s past 12:00 and we haven’t had lunch. I didn’t mind too much because I’d been unwell in the morning so wasn’t too hungry. I’d had a slice of toast around 09:30 while walking the dog, at home, before we got in the car.
I’d brought some cereal bars so I gave one each to Rod and James , and I ate my yummy Trek oat bar.

As you’ll see on the map above, we made a few detours but it was a good walk and we’ll worth it for the beautiful sights.

At one point on the path, I fell on my backside and landed badly, hurting my shoulder – the bicep pain was horrible. It lasted for days after the fall, actually. As I write this, it still hurts when I use my right arm. With the lack of food, I became extremely tired. Then I lost Rod and James (they had my bag and mobile phone in my bag) so I got a little upset with exhaustion and pain.

But we carried on. We stopped a few times and I got my second Trek bar out; we shared it, just before the last stretch back to the car park.

We had good weather all along, which was quite lucky.

I’ll go back and do this walk again, starting earlier, taking food with me and maybe do it in the other direction.
I consider this one as a rehearsal 🙂