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Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall in Brecon Beacons National Park

Discover the cascading beauty of Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, a serene multi-step waterfall nestled in the lush woodlands of South Wales’ Brecon Beacons.

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Sgwd Clun-Gwyn is a striking waterfall on the Afon Mellte river in South Wales, renowned for its cascading multi-step falls and lush woodland setting. Part of the famous Four Waterfalls Walk in the Brecon Beacons National Park, it offers scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere amid mossy rocks and verdant forest. This waterfall plunges approximately 12 meters (40 feet) in two main stages, creating a captivating spectacle for hikers and photographers alike.

A brief summary to Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall

  • Afon Mellte, Neath, 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 hiking boots or gumboots, as trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the waterfall’s multi-tiered cascades and the surrounding mossy woodland.
  • Plan for at least 3 hours to complete the Four Waterfalls Walk, which includes Sgwd Clun-Gwyn and three other nearby falls.
  • Exercise caution near the water; strong currents and slippery rocks make swimming unsafe in most conditions.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Drive to the Cwm Porth car park near Ystradfellte, which serves as a popular starting point for the Four Waterfalls Walk. Parking costs around £4. The drive from Neath takes approximately 40-50 minutes via A465 and local roads. The car park can fill on busy days, so early arrival is recommended.

  • Bus

    Take a regional bus service to Ystradfellte village from Neath or Merthyr Tydfil, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on connections. From Ystradfellte, a 3 km moderate walk along marked trails leads to the waterfall. Bus services may be limited on weekends and holidays.

  • Hiking

    Access Sgwd Clun-Gwyn via the Four Waterfalls Walk, a circular trail of approximately 10 km. The hike takes 3 to 4 hours at a moderate pace, with some steep and muddy sections. Suitable for hikers with reasonable fitness; wear appropriate footwear and bring water.

Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Sgwd Clun-Gwyn Waterfall

The Natural Beauty of Sgwd Clun-Gwyn

Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, meaning “fall of the white meadow” in Welsh, is a captivating waterfall located on the Afon Mellte river within the Brecon Beacons National Park's Waterfall Country. Unlike single-drop waterfalls, it cascades over two major ledges, plunging around 12 meters (40 feet) in total. The waterfall is framed by dense, moss-covered woodland, creating a serene and secluded atmosphere that is especially vivid after rainfall when the water flow intensifies. The surrounding ancient forest and rocky gorge enhance the dramatic effect of the cascading water, making it a favored spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Integration within the Four Waterfalls Walk

Sgwd Clun-Gwyn is the first of four waterfalls encountered on the renowned Four Waterfalls Walk, a circular hiking trail that spans approximately 10 kilometers. The trail leads visitors through diverse landscapes, including river valleys and dense woodlands, linking Sgwd Clun-Gwyn with Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira. The walk provides multiple viewpoints of Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, including from above and below the falls, allowing visitors to appreciate its multi-tiered structure and the interplay of light and water. The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep and muddy sections, rewarding hikers with spectacular natural scenery.

Geological and Hydrological Features

The waterfall’s stepped cascade is a result of the underlying sandstone and gritstone geology, which creates natural ledges over which the water flows. The Afon Mellte river, known for its variable flow, can swell dramatically after rain, enhancing the waterfall’s power and spectacle. The pools formed at the base of the falls are deep and inviting, though caution is advised due to strong currents. The surrounding microclimate maintains a humid environment that supports rich vegetation, including ferns and mosses, which cling to the damp rocks and add to the lush green backdrop.

Visitor Experience and Accessibility

Visitors typically access Sgwd Clun-Gwyn via well-marked trails starting from nearby car parks such as Cwm Porth or Gwaun Hepste. The initial viewpoint is reachable within about 10 minutes from the trailhead, with further exploration offering closer views from above and below the falls. The paths can be slippery and muddy, especially in wet weather, so sturdy footwear or gumboots are recommended. While the waterfall area is peaceful and less crowded than some other sites, visitors should exercise caution near the water and respect the natural environment. The waterfall is open year-round, with the best visits often after rainfall when the cascades are most dramatic.

Photography and Nature Appreciation

Sgwd Clun-Gwyn is highly photogenic due to its multi-step cascade and the contrast between the white water and the dark, mossy rocks. Photographers often find unique angles from the rocky outcrops and footbridges nearby. The surrounding woodland, with its seasonal changes, offers additional visual interest, from vibrant autumn foliage to fresh spring greens. Wildlife such as birds and small mammals inhabit the area, adding to the richness of the natural experience.

Conservation and Local Significance

As part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn benefits from conservation efforts aimed at preserving its natural beauty and ecological integrity. The waterfall and its environs are a protected area, with guidelines encouraging visitors to minimize impact by staying on designated paths and avoiding disturbance to wildlife. The site holds cultural significance locally, with its Welsh name reflecting the landscape’s heritage. It remains a treasured destination for both locals and visitors seeking to connect with Wales’ remarkable natural landscapes.

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