The Four Waterfalls Walk, Ystradfellte is one of the most spectacular circular walks in Wales, taking you deep into the heart of the Brecon Beacons’ famous Waterfall Country.
Four Waterfalls Walk, Ystradfellte: The Ultimate Guide to Waterfall Country
This unforgettable 6.6-mile (10.6 km) circular route follows the rivers Mellte and Hepste through ancient woodland, dramatic gorges and hidden valleys to discover four magnificent waterfalls, including the famous Sgwd yr Eira, where you can actually walk behind the cascading water.
If you’re looking for one of the best waterfall walks in the UK, this should be at the very top of your list.
🗺️ Interactive Route Map
Explore the full route below, zoom in on key landmarks and plan your adventure before setting off.
Places to stay near Ystradfellte
🥾 Walk Overview
- Location: Ystradfellte, Brecon Beacons National Park
- Distance: 6.6 miles (10.6 km)
- Time: Around 3 hours 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route Type: Circular
- Dog Friendly: Yes (keep dogs under control near livestock and steep drops)
- Pushchair Friendly: No
- Parking: Car park in Ystradfellte
- Nearest Postcode: CF44 area
🌊 Why You’ll Love This Walk
✔ Walk behind a waterfall
✔ Four spectacular waterfalls
✔ Ancient woodland trails
✔ Beautiful river scenery
✔ One of Wales’ most Instagrammable walks
✔ Fantastic photography opportunities
✔ Ideal all year round
🗺️ Route Description
📍Start – Ystradfellte Car Park
Your adventure begins in the village of Ystradfellte.
Leave the car park and head past the historic church before crossing the River Mellte. The peaceful country lane soon leads towards Cwm Porth, where the dramatic entrance to Porth yr Ogof cave is well worth a short detour.
This huge cave system is one of the largest in Wales and has been carved by the power of the river over thousands of years.
🌿 Stage 1 – Enter Waterfall Country
Cross the road and follow signs towards Sgwd Clun-Gwyn.
The woodland path follows the River Mellte before joining the famous Four Falls Trail, clearly marked by numbered waymarkers.
Before long you’ll arrive at your first waterfall.
💦 Sgwd Clun-Gwyn
Known as the Fall of the White Meadow, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn crashes over a broad rock ledge into a peaceful woodland gorge.
This is often the first glimpse visitors get of the incredible scenery that makes this area so famous.
Take your time here—the viewpoints are stunning.
🌲 Through the Forest
Return to the main trail and continue through peaceful woodland as the path gently climbs before levelling out high above the river.
Birdsong, flowing water and towering trees create one of the most tranquil sections of the walk.
💦 Sgwd y Pannwr & Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn
A steep descent leads to Sgwd y Pannwr, once used by wool fullers who washed cloth in the fast-flowing water.
Continue along the river to discover Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, one of the area’s hidden gems.
The final section is uneven and can be slippery after rain, so care is needed.
The rewards are well worth the effort.
⭐ Sgwd yr Eira
The highlight of the entire walk.
Meaning “Fall of Snow,” Sgwd yr Eira is one of the most famous waterfalls in Wales and one of the few places in Britain where you can safely walk behind the cascading water.
The overhanging rock has been naturally eroded over centuries, creating a magical path hidden behind the curtain of water.
It’s one of those places you’ll never forget.
🚶 Return to Ystradfellte
Climb back to the main trail before following signs towards Gwaun Hepste Car Park.
From here it’s an easy walk along quiet country lanes back into Ystradfellte, where you’ll find welcoming pubs and cafés perfect for a post-walk meal.
📸 Best Photo Spots
- Walking behind Sgwd yr Eira
- Sgwd Clun-Gwyn from the viewing platform
- Porth yr Ogof cave entrance
- Woodland river crossings
- Moss-covered rocks beside the Mellte
🥾 Difficulty
Although relatively short, this walk includes:
- Numerous stone steps
- Steep descents and climbs
- Muddy woodland paths
- Uneven rocky terrain
- Slippery surfaces near waterfalls
A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, along with sturdy waterproof walking boots.
🎒 What to Bring
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Camera
- Snacks and water
- Walking poles (recommended)
- Spare socks after heavy rain
🍽️ Places to Eat
After your walk, head back into Ystradfellte where you’ll find welcoming pubs serving traditional Welsh meals and refreshments.
It’s the perfect way to end an unforgettable day exploring Waterfall Country.
🌟 Days Out Now Tip
Visit after a period of rainfall for the waterfalls at their most dramatic—but expect muddy paths and take extra care on the steep sections.
If visiting in autumn, the woodland transforms into a spectacular display of reds, oranges and golds.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginners do this walk?
Most reasonably fit walkers can complete it, but expect steep sections and uneven ground. Families with older children who enjoy walking should have no problem, provided suitable footwear is worn.
Is this one of the best walks in Wales?
Absolutely. The Four Waterfalls Walk is widely regarded as one of the finest circular walks in Wales and one of the UK’s greatest waterfall adventures.
Walking behind Sgwd yr Eira alone makes it a truly unforgettable experience.
What’s the best time to visit?
Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery and quieter trails, while winter and after rainfall provide the most powerful waterfalls.
Summer is the busiest period.
Is the walk dog friendly?
Yes, although dogs should be kept under control near livestock and on steep sections.
Is there parking?
Yes. Parking is available in Ystradfellte, where the circular route begins.
Additional parking is available at nearby Cwm Porth and Gwaun Hepste.
Is the Four Waterfalls Walk difficult?
It is rated moderate, with several steep climbs, stone steps and uneven woodland paths.
Good footwear is essential.
Can you walk behind the waterfall?
Yes. Sgwd yr Eira is famous because visitors can walk behind the waterfall via a natural path carved into the rock.
Take care, as surfaces can be slippery.
How long is the Four Waterfalls Walk?
The circular route is 6.6 miles (10.6 km) and usually takes around 3 hours 45 minutes, depending on stops and conditions.
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