Wales’ landscape has a plethora of historic buildings, beautiful beaches, and stunning waterfalls. The number of cascades in this Waterfall country is as impressive as in Iceland. Moreover, you can find higher waterfalls here than in Canada. Who wouldn’t want to see some of the best waterfalls in Wales?
Whether you want to visit the tallest, hidden, or most charming Welsh waterfall, look no further. I have created a guide to the best waterfalls to visit in Wales. You will fall in love with every single one of them.
Waterfalls in Wales Map
1. Pistyll Rhaeadr, North Wales
What makes Pistyll Rhaeadr so special? It is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the UK. Compared to Niagara Falls with a total height of 51 m (167 ft), Pistyll Rhaeadr has over 73m (240ft). This waterfall is also one of the Seven Wonders of Wales that you cannot miss when visiting the UK.
Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in North Wales
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Pistyll Rhaeadr?
Pistyll Rhaeadr directions: use postcode SY10 0BZ
If you are living locally, it takes only 30 minutes to drive from Oswestry or one hour from Shrewsbury. Moreover, Pistyll Rhaeadr’s car park is just a stone’s throw away from the waterfall. There is also Pistyll Rhaeadr b&b where you can stay for a night and admire spectacular scenery for much longer.
View from the top of Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall
Pistyll Rhaeadr walk
It doesn’t require a lot of walking to see this amazing waterfall. It is next to the parking lot. If you don’t mind cold water it is also possible to swim at Pistyll Rhaeadr. The little pool can be found at the bottom of the waterfall.
Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in North Wales
You should climb to the top through the woodland to see enchanting moss over the rocks and trees. In fact, there is something magical about woods in Wales. Due to large rainfalls, everything’s so green and looks unreal! Undoubtedly, this is a wonderful area for a picnic with your friends or family.
The enchanting forest next to Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall
Things to do near Pistyll Rhaeadr and places to stay nearby
One hour drive from Pistyll Rhaeadr, you can relax at one of the spas in Llangollen. Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa is not far from Chester, Wrexham, Liverpool, or Manchester. If you are looking for a short break that includes relaxing at a sauna or steam room, but also exploring the Welsh landscape, there is no better place to visit.
Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in North Wales
During summer, stay in one of the campsites in the area such as Glanllyn Caravan & Camping Park. You will be able to explore not only waterfalls but also beautiful lakes like Vyrnwy or Bala. There are plenty of other amazing activities to do near Pistyll Rhaeadr which include:
Snowdonia National Park
Llangollen
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Chirk Castle
2. Aber Falls, North Wales
Aber Falls in particular is one of my favorite waterfalls in North Wales. It plunges down almost 40m from the Carneddau mountains. This incredible valley offers you much more than just the waterfall. For instance, beautiful woodland trees, colorful lichens, and purple bluebells, which make this place look like a fairy tale.
Aber Falls in North Wales
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Aber Falls?
Aber Falls car park: Abergwyngregyn, use postcode LL33 0LP
Aber Falls is just off the A55 (North Wales Expressway), between Conwy town and Anglesey Island. When you arrive at the village, Abergwyngregyn follow a narrow road for 5 minutes. Finally, at the end of the road, you will see the car park. Alternatively, you can also find some parking spaces near Aber Falls Cafe & Butterfly Rooms. However, it is almost one hour walk from there to the waterfall.
Aber Falls in North Wales
Aber Falls walk
There is no circular walk to Aber Falls that you should do. The best way is to hike 30 minutes from the car park and come back by using the same path. It is a very easy walk that offers excellent views.
The path leading to Aber Falls
An ancient forest full of bluebells with a curved path leading to the waterfall will enchant you. Afon Rhaeadr Fawr (Big Waterfall River) with a little bridge looks very charming. It is a great place to visit when exploring North Wales.
The path leading to Aber Falls
Things to do near Aber Falls and places to stay nearby
If you are on a road trip in North Wales, make sure to visit beautiful castles and sandy beaches. Also, climbing mountains or swimming in lakes are great options for holidays in the UK. There are many unique places to visit near Aber Falls and some of them include:
Conwy Castle
Snowdonia National Park
Anglesey Island
Zip World Adventure
3. Rhaeadr Fach, North Wales
In Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve you can also see another amazing waterfall which is just a 5-minute walk from Aber Falls. You can easily overlook it during your visit to Aber Falls. For the best views, you will need to climb a bit as it gets prettier at the top.
Rhaeadr Fach in North Wales
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Rhaeadr Fach?
Car park: Abergwyngregyn, use postcode LL33 0LP
Rhaeadr Fach walk
Rhaeadr Fach is just a 0,2 mile (300m) walk from Aber Falls. This short hike offers excellent views of a large field with wild bluebells. In the middle of it, you will see a couple of white flower trees and some sheep. The area is very unspoiled and worth visiting.
Bluebells walk at Aber Falls and Rhaeadr Fach
On your way back to the car take the last pictures of the bluebells with your backpacking camera. Beautifully growing around big stones look like fairy rings. This place feels so magical that you will want to come back there any time soon.
Bluebells walk at Aber Falls and Rhaeadr Fach
4. Rhiwagor Waterfall, North Wales
If you are looking for a secret waterfall in North Wales, visit in particular Rhiwagor waterfall. Its series of cascades set between lush greenery look impressive. Moreover, Rhiwagor at 100m high is one of the tallest waterfalls in North Wales.
Rhiwagor Waterfall in North Wales
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Rhiwagor Waterfall?
Rhiwargor Waterfall Car Park, use postcode SY10 0NE
This amazing waterfall is within a short distance from Snowdonia National Park or Lake Vyrnwy. In addition, you can park at Rhiwargor Waterfall Car Park which is just a 20-minute walk from Rhiwargor Waterfall. It is a great place to visit when exploring North Wales.
Rhiwagor Waterfall in North Wales
Furthermore, driving to Rhiwagor Waterfall will offer you excellent views of hills and the lake. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most scenic routes in Wales. If you live in Shrewsbury or Chester you cannot miss visiting Rhiwagor Waterfall.
Rhiwagor Waterfall walk
The hike to the waterfall is easy and provides fantastic views of the Afon Eiddew river. The breathtaking valley and Rhiwagor forest will also give you a sense of tranquility. Moreover, there won’t be as many tourists as in Aber Falls or Pistyll Rhaeadr.
Rhiwagor Waterfall in North Wales
You can also climb steep hills to see small pools and cascades from close up. Not to mention that water flowing on vertical rock walls looks incredible. The waterfall is huge and it is worth exploring!
Rhiwagor Waterfall in North Wales
Things to do near Rhiwagor Waterfall and places to stay nearby
For the lake views book accommodation at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa. This 4-star hotel is just 10 minutes drive from Rhiwagor Waterfall. Also, the Dam View Cottage b&b or campsite at Lake Vyrnwy are amazing locations to stay near Lake Vyrnwy and the waterfall.
Rhiwagor Waterfall in North Wales
Rhiwagor Waterfall is only 45 minutes drive from Pistyll Rhaeadr so you might want to visit both of them at the same time. Relax at the lake and take some incredible pictures of Lake Vyrnwy Dam. There is also a hidden Statue Park that is a great way to spend a day out with your kids.
The best places to visit near one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Rhiwagor Waterfall:
Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall
Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant waterfall
Statue Park
Lake Vyrnwy
5. Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall, South Wales
Recommended by Rachel from Average Lives
Sgwd-yr-Eira is easily one of the best waterfalls in Wales. It forms part of the Four Waterfalls Walk, which begins south of Ystradfellte in the Brecon Beacons National Park—also known as waterfall county. It also means that you will be able to see other waterfalls on one single trip.
Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall in South Wales (photo by Rachel from Average Lives)
The waterfall is impressive at 10m high and is unique because you can walk behind it and appreciate the beauty and force of the fall from close up. Sgwd Yr Eira means snow waterfall in Welsh and is surrounded by beautiful woodlands. You can swim in this waterfall, but please be respectful of others and do not enter if you’re alone as the water can be cold.
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Sgwd Yr Eira?
Cwm Porth Car Park: Ystradfellte, Aberdare, use postcode CF44 9JF
The nearest major city is the Welsh capital, Cardiff, which is roughly one hour away from the start of the trail. You can park in Cwm Porth Car Park, which has toilets, picnic benches, and an information point, where you can learn about the waterfalls in the area.
Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall walk
The whole four waterfalls walk hike is 7.5km (4.6 miles) and will take around 2.5-3.5 hours to complete. However, you can just go to Sgwd-yr-Eira without visiting the other three if you are short on time. It is worth noting that the waterfall is only accessible down many steps, which can be slippery.
Things to do near Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall and places to stay nearby
Other attractions in the area include hiking Pen y Fan, going on the Brecon Mountain Railway, or going on an adventure activity such as gorge walking or quad biking. You are also not far from the cities of Cardiff and Swansea, and you could base yourself there to explore the national park further.
The best places to visit near Sgwd Yr Eira waterfall:
Four waterfalls walk ( Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, Sgwd-yr-Eira)
Pen y Fan
Zip World Tower
Henrhyd Falls
6. Melincourt Falls, South Wales
Recommended by Lowri Thomas from Many Other Roads
Looking for a special waterfall in Wales that is not crowded by tourists? Then look no further than Melincourt Waterfall!
Melincourt Falls in South Wales (photo by Lowri Thomas from Many Other Roads)
Melincourt Waterfall or Sgwd Rhyd Yr Hesg in Native Welsh is found in the small town of Resolven, Neath (South Wales). This Waterfall is a hidden gem in the waterfall world and certainly in Wales. With so many waterfalls in this region you might be thinking, why should I visit Melincourt Falls?
With only a short walk, incredibly scenic, and free to visit, it is one of the best waterfalls in Wales to Visit.
Where Can I park to Visit Melincourt Falls?
Directions to Melincourt Falls: use postcode SA11 4EG
You will find a public car park signed for Melincourt Falls off the B4434 road. As this waterfall is still a hidden gem you will always find a spot to park here. Parking is also free here which is unusual at so many waterfall spots across Wales, England, and Scotland.
Walking to Melincourt Falls
The walk to reach the base of Melincourt Falls is 15-20 minutes from the carpark each way at a gentle pace. The path is always in pretty good condition as it is maintained by the Wildlife Trust. This walk is dog friendly and pretty accessible to everyone making it one of the best waterfalls in Wales to visit.
What to expect when you get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Melincourt Falls
When you arrive at the 24m (80 ft) waterfall the first thing you will notice is how peaceful it is. There will be many times on your visit you will not see anyone, but if you do, it’s usually just locals walking their dogs.
Melincourt Falls in South Wales (photo by Lowri Thomas from Many Other Roads)
The peaceful nature makes this a great spot to dip in the cool waters and take amazing photos without crowds of tourists. The lack of crowds and space to explore by yourself makes this one of the best waterfalls in Wales.
There are also lots of natural spots to sit and admire the view of the waterfall so it is a great place to enjoy a picnic too. This is a great spot for lunch as you will rarely come across another walker. Being able to enjoy a picnic uninterrupted is another reason why this is one of the best waterfalls in Wales.
If you want to walk up to the waterfall and take a dip it is possible but there are a few things you should know. There are lots of rocks so it will be difficult if you aren’t prepared. Also even if you visit Melincourt falls in the Summer, the water is freezing.
The Best Places to Stay and Visit Near Melincourt Falls
Melincourt falls is a great location for visiting the best waterfalls in South Wales. The nearest big town to visit and stay in from Melincourt falls is Neath. A town is full of locally-owned restaurants and bars, a traditional indoor market, and friendly locals.
Here are a few of the best things to do in Neath:
Gnoll Estate
Neath Abbey
Victoria Gardens
Neath Canal
Neath has a Travelodge just off the M4 junction which is great for those traveling at a fast pace. However, if you are looking for a stay that is a bit more homely, Booking.com is the best place to find your perfect stay!
However, if you are looking to stay in a big city, Swansea is only a short journey away. This spot is incredibly popular with visitors to Wales as there is so much to do in Swansea and has great links to the Brecon Beacons and the Gower.
Thanks to Melincourt Falls being off the beaten track, this truly makes this spot special and one of the best waterfalls to visit in Wales. Make sure to add this Waterfall to your list to see the best of South Wales.
7. Snowdon Watkin Path Waterfalls, North Wales
The Watkin Path is in particular one of the most difficult routes to the highest mountain in Wales – Snowdon. However, getting to just waterfalls is not that hard and offers amazing views. You will see an impressive collection of smaller and bigger waterfalls next to the main path. Moreover, crystal clear water in the pools makes it a great spot for wild swimming.
Snowdon Watkin Path Waterfalls in North Wales
Where are the Watkin Path waterfalls?
The Watkin Path starts near a lovely cafe – Caffi Gwynant. On one side of the A498 road, you will see a parking lot and a Watkin path on the other. It is literally between two lakes – Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant.
Llyn Gwynant during winter
How do I get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Watkin Path waterfall?
Address: Beddgelert, Caernarfon, use postcode LL55 4NR
Just off the main route, there is a path that leads down to Snowdon Watkin Path waterfalls. You can easily miss it as it is overgrown with green ferns and doesn’t look like it is worth going there. When you walk to the waterfalls, you will fall in love with the place. It is an amazing location for picnics or wild swimming.
Snowdon Watkin Path Waterfalls in North Wales
The best places to stay and visit near Watkin Path waterfalls
In the heart of Snowdonia National Park, you can do plenty of amazing things. Climbing Snowdon at different times of the year or choosing various routes will make sure that your hike will never be the same. If you want to see the heart-shaped lake Glaslyn, hike the Miners Track.
Top places to visit near Watkin Path waterfalls
Snowdon Peak
Zip World Llechwedd
Portmeirion (Italian style village)
Glyder Fawr
8. Plaspower/Bersham waterfall Wrexham, North Wales
This relatively small waterfall is really beautiful. To enjoy your visit to Plas Power Woods, explore it during spring. You will walk to the waterfall while admiring beautiful bluebells. Also, different species of birds such as jay, kingfisher, heron, grey wagtail, or nuthatch are just a few that you can see at Nant Mill. Not only birds but also rabbits, grey squirrels, or peacock butterflies live in this little forest. This unspoiled beauty offers great activities for nature lovers.
Plaspower/Bersham waterfall Wrexham
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Plaspower/Bersham?
Plas Power Woods Car Park: Rhos Berse Rd, Coedpoeth, Wrexham, use postcode LL11 3BT
The Nant Mill Visitor Centre is just 10 minutes drive from Wrexham. You will find Plas Power Woods Car Park with a picnic area. In addition, it takes only 20 minutes to walk to Plaspower Waterfall.
Plas Power Woods
Plaspower/Bersham waterfall walk
The waterfall is hidden in Plas Power Woods. Moreover, you will find it very peaceful without many crowds. Not to mention that it is a great place for a walk and offers amazing opportunities for photographers. Especially, long exposure photos at Plaspower waterfall look incredible. Plaspower/Bersham waterfall walk is not difficult so make sure to explore this area when visiting North Wales.
Plaspower/Bersham waterfall Wrexham
The best places to stay and visit near Plaspower waterfall
You will find plenty of accommodation in Llangollen such as The Hay Loft or Llangollen Shepherds Huts with the private hot tub. This area is really beautiful and nearby the best Welsh attractions.
Top places to visit near Plaspower/Bersham waterfall:
St Giles’ Church, Wrexham
Tŷ Mawr Country Park
Holywell
Horseshoe Falls in Llangollen
9. Devil’s Bridge Falls in the heart of Wales
Recommended by Hannah Ackroyd from Get Lost Travel Blog
The incredible 300ft Mynach Waterfalls are set in a spectacular wooded gorge. Technically Devil’s Bridge falls are a series of tiered falls. As a result of that, five major drops make up the total 91 metre fall. It is worth to note that place it is amongst the highest waterfalls in Wales!
Devil’s Bridge Falls (photo by Hannah Ackroyd from Get Lost Travel Blog)
How to get to one of the best waterfalls in Wales – Devil’s Bridge Falls?
Devils Bridge Car Park: Aberystwyth, use postcode SY23 3JW
Devil’s Bridge Falls is undoubtedly one of the best waterfalls to visit in Wales. It is most easily accessed from the town of Aberystwyth. You can take the 522 bus service and reach the falls in just over 30 minutes. However, driving or taking a taxi is the easiest option and you can arrive in under 20 minutes. The site has a free car park which can accommodate 35 cars, but there are also other free or pay and display car parks a short walk away if it is full.
Waterfalls in Wales – Devil’s Bridge Falls walk
On your visit, you should enjoy the Nature Trail. This is a circular walk that takes you around the best views of the falls. It takes around 45 minutes to complete but is a challenging walk due to the number of steep steps. You must wear sensible shoes.
You should also complete the shorter 3 Bridges and Punchbowl trail. This won’t get you good views of the falls but is the best way to see the three stacked bridges. According to legend, the first bridge was built by the devil himself! This route also has several steps.
The best places to stay and visit near Devil’s Bridge Falls
Devil’s Bridge Falls is just 12 miles from the seaside town of Aberystwyth. Aberystwyth is the ideal place to stay and explore. Some of the highlights include: taking a ride on the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway or soaking up the stunning coastal views from Aberystwyth Castle.
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