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Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn: The Cascading Jewel of Wales’ Four Waterfalls Walk

Discover the serene multi-tiered cascades of Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, a tranquil jewel on the Four Waterfalls Walk in Wales’ Brecon Beacons.

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Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn is a captivating multi-tiered waterfall nestled in the Brecon Beacons National Park’s Waterfall Country, South Wales. Part of the renowned Four Waterfalls Walk, it features a series of cascading drops over moss-covered rocks within ancient woodland. The waterfall’s layered streams and tranquil surroundings make it a photogenic highlight on a moderately challenging hiking route, offering visitors a serene natural escape amid lush greenery and dramatic river gorges.

A brief summary to Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn

  • Four Waterfalls Walk, Neath, SA11 5US, GB
  • Duration: 2 to 4 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as the trail can be muddy and slippery, especially near the waterfall.
  • Arrive early to secure parking at Cwm Porth or Gwaun Hepste car parks, as spaces fill quickly on busy days.
  • Bring water and snacks, as facilities along the trail are limited and no bins are available—carry out all litter.
  • Exercise caution around the pools and river currents; swimming is not recommended due to strong flows.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive to Cwm Porth or Gwaun Hepste car parks, the main gateways to the Four Waterfalls Walk. Parking costs £4-£6 per day, card payments only, with spaces filling early on busy days. The walk from either car park to Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn takes about 30-45 minutes on uneven terrain.

  • Bus and Walk

    Take regional bus services to Neath or nearby Pontneddfechan, then prepare for a 5-7 km hike along marked trails to reach the falls. This option requires good fitness and preparation, as public transport does not drop you directly at the trailhead.

  • Taxi

    Local taxi services from Neath or Ystradgynlais can provide direct access to the car parks near the Four Waterfalls Walk. Travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes, with fares typically ranging from £20 to £40 depending on distance and time of day.

Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn

A Distinctive Cascade in Waterfall Country

Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, translating to "Lower Fall of the White Meadow" in Welsh, is one of four spectacular waterfalls along the celebrated Four Waterfalls Walk in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Unlike single-drop waterfalls, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn is a multi-tiered cascade where water flows down a sequence of ledges and steps, creating a dynamic and intricate display of rushing water. This waterfall lies downstream from its larger counterpart, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, and upstream from Sgwd y Pannwr and Sgwd yr Eira, forming a natural progression of scenic falls along the River Mellte.

Immersed in Ancient Woodland and Rich Vegetation

The waterfall is enveloped by dense, moss-covered rocks and vibrant woodland, offering a secluded and tranquil atmosphere. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the white foam of the cascading water, especially after rainfall when the river swells and the falls become more powerful. The surrounding forest and river gorge provide a scenic backdrop that enhances the waterfall’s natural beauty and appeal to nature lovers and photographers alike.

Exploring the Four Waterfalls Walk

Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn is accessible via the Four Waterfalls Walk, a popular circular hiking trail that typically takes 3 to 4 hours to complete. The trail passes through ancient woodland and along riverbanks, featuring moderately challenging terrain with some steep and uneven sections near the waterfall viewpoints. Hikers with a reasonable level of fitness can enjoy the route, though caution is advised around slippery rocks near the falls. The walk offers multiple viewpoints of the waterfall, from distant vistas framed by golden autumn foliage to close-up perspectives at the base, where visitors can experience the full scale of the cascading streams.

Photographic and Recreational Highlights

Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn is particularly prized for its photogenic qualities. The waterfall’s layered streams and natural platforms allow for diverse photographic angles, capturing the falls’ dramatic flow and the surrounding forest’s serene beauty. While the pools below the waterfall may appear inviting, strong currents make swimming hazardous, so exploration near the water should be approached with care. The waterfall’s unique structure and peaceful setting make it a memorable highlight of the Four Waterfalls Walk.

Visitor Facilities and Local Considerations

Parking for the Four Waterfalls Walk is available at nearby car parks such as Cwm Porth and Gwaun Hepste, which operate pay-and-display systems with fees around £4 to £6 per day. Cwm Porth offers toilets and a seasonal refreshment van, while parking spaces can fill quickly during peak times. Visitors are encouraged to bring water and suitable footwear, as paths can be muddy and slippery. The area is managed to balance visitor access with conservation, and litter must be carried out as bins are not provided along the trail.

Natural Heritage and Conservation

Situated within the Brecon Beacons National Park, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn contributes to the region’s reputation as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The waterfall and its surroundings are part of a protected landscape that supports diverse flora and fauna. Visitors are urged to respect the fragile environment by staying on marked paths and adhering to Leave No Trace principles, helping preserve this enchanting site for future generations.

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