Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls — Attraction in Great Britain

A must-visit gem in the heart of Snowdonia. If you're visiting Snowdonia National Park, especially the charming village of Betws-y-Coed, you simply cannot miss Rhaeadr Ewynnol, more commonly known as Swallow Falls. I've seen many waterfalls, but the sheer power and raw beauty of this one truly stand out. It’s not just a single drop, but a series of cascading tiers where the Afon Llugwy tumbles over a jagged rock gorge, creating a mesmerizing display of white, foaming water.

The experience begins the moment you step out of your car. The roar of the water, even from the road, is a constant, inviting thrum that pulls you in. After paying the modest £2 entry fee at the unmanned turnstile (contactless payment is available, which is very convenient), the short path takes you down a well-maintained set of steps and walkways. Don’t be put off by the steps; they're entirely manageable for anyone of average fitness. The path is secure with handrails, and you're surrounded by lush, moss-covered woodland that feels ancient and magical.

There are several viewing platforms on the south bank, each offering a different and equally breathtaking perspective. From the upper platforms, you can appreciate the scale of the falls and the sheer volume of water hurtling downwards. As you descend, you get closer to the action, feeling the cool mist on your face and truly comprehending the power of the river. After a period of heavy rainfall, the falls are a truly spectacular, single torrent of water, a sight that feels humbling and powerful.

One of the best tips I can give is to visit after a good spell of rain. That's when the falls are at their most dramatic and deserving of their Welsh name, "the foaming waterfall." While it’s beautiful in the dry season, the energy and sound are magnified tenfold when the river is in full spate. Be sure to wear sturdy, waterproof shoes, as the mist can make the steps and surrounding areas damp.

For those looking for a different experience, there’s also a free trail on the northern bank of the river. This requires a bit more of a walk and offers an entirely different, more tranquil view of the falls. I'd recommend doing both if you have the time to get the full picture.

In all, Swallow Falls is more than just a quick photo op; it's a sensory experience that captures the essence of the Snowdonia landscape. It's a quick, easy, and very rewarding stop that perfectly complements a longer day of hiking or exploring the local area. Highly...

Visited in September 2019. I almost gave up to see the waterfall, because during my 2 weeks holiday almost every day I drove on that road A5, and never had a chance to to stop, as the car park was always extremely busy. To be honest it is not a big car park, but someone goes away, 3 others waiting for that space. It can be easier sometimes to park on the other side of the road where is the Swallow falls hotel/pub with its own parking. But because this is the busiest road of the mountain it's not easy to cross the road. The falls are between the Ugly house and Betws-y-Coed on the very side of the road. Then just 2 days before my holiday ended,one evening I found parking space, so I stopped immediately. It is not a huge attraction or something we spend more than 30 minutes by the way, so it's surprising that the car park is always busy. The entrance is a narrow barred iron gate works with coins, £2 per head to get in. I found it very strange, because the waterfall is just next to the road, and seems that it was fenced only for tourists, to get access for money. And as I said, the time we spend there is no more than half an hour but even that is too long. Quite a few steps leads down to different very wet terraces, and it is indeed a lovely waterfall and we can take nice pictures. I can advise to go there early morning or later afternoon/evening, when we can parking easier, and also the terraces are less busy. But be prepared with coins to get in. It is nothing else there, just stairs down to the terraces and back to the gate, I remember 1-2 benches,...

Swallow Falls beckons as a tranquil sanctuary, a picturesque natural wonder that stands in stark contrast to the frenetic pace of modern life. For a modest admission of just £2, visitors are granted access to this secluded paradise, where the number of viewing spots is deliberately kept low to preserve the intimacy and exclusivity of the experience.

Here, amidst the soothing sounds of cascading waters, families can find a peaceful retreat. It's an idyllic setting for an outdoor adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression. The falls offer a backdrop of stunning beauty, where one can unwind and let the serene ambiance of nature wash over them.

Photography enthusiasts will find the summer months particularly rewarding, as the lush surroundings and optimal lighting conditions create a canvas ripe for capturing. The falls, with their majestic flow and misty spray, present countless opportunities to snap that perfect shot, preserving the memory of a visit to this enchanting locale.

Swallow Falls is not just a destination; it's an experience that embodies the essence of nature's restorative powers. It's a place where one can reconnect with the earth, forge unforgettable memories with loved ones, and capture the sheer beauty of the natural world in every frame. Whether seeking solace or adventure, Swallow Falls awaits to offer its...