Sgwd Yr Eira Waterfall — Attraction in Hirwaun

We chose this trail for our very first walk in Wales. I travelled from Taunton, which took around two hours by car. The journey was mostly along dual carriageways, passing through Bristol. The final stretch was along a rural road, narrow enough that two cars could only pass with care.

Parking The car park Cwm Porth - Four Waterfalls Car Park where we stopped was well equipped with changing rooms, toilets, a small shop, and a coffee shop serving sandwiches. The capacity wasn’t very high, so on bank holidays it’s best to arrive early to secure a space. There is, however, another car park nearby as a backup.

The Trails The area offers two marked trails – red and green. Completing both takes around four hours in total.

The red route is a loop. To see four of the waterfalls, you’ll need to leave the main trail, descend around 200 steps, and then climb back up afterwards.

The green route is an out-and-back path. You follow it to see two waterfalls, then retrace your steps to rejoin the main trail and complete the route.

Waterfalls There are four waterfalls if you cover both the red and green routes.

The first one is tall and set at a distance – you can view it from afar, though a few people managed to find a way closer.

The second and third waterfalsl are on the green route. I even saw a group of teenagers diving into the pool at the base and swimming.

The final waterfall was, in my opinion, the most spectacular. By that point you’ve already completed more than two-thirds of the trail, so the decision to descend the steep steps and climb back up again isn’t an easy one – but I strongly recommend it. The effort is absolutely worth it. After visiting this last waterfall, it takes about half an hour to return to the car park.

Difficulty The main route itself is fairly easy and takes about two hours, which makes it moderate overall. Adding in the three stair descents to visit the waterfalls raises the difficulty to moderate–hard, especially when combined with the length of the walk.

Recommendations

Avoid visiting during busy times, as it’s harder to enjoy the scenery with large crowds.

Wear proper walking shoes – they don’t need to be technical, just comfortable for long distances.

Bring plenty of water and a hat, as some parts of the path are exposed...

Sgwd yr Eira: Breathtaking Beauty Earns Its Effort, But Amenities Need Improvement

Sgwd yr Eira waterfall is a true gem nestled within the Brecon Beacons National Park. The cascading water itself is a magnificent sight, and the unique opportunity to walk behind the falls adds an unforgettable element to the experience. However, the journey to get there requires some effort, and the on-site facilities leave room for improvement.

The beauty of Sgwd yr Eira is undeniable. The curtain of water plunging over the 50-foot cliff creates a mesmerizing scene, enhanced by the surrounding lush greenery. The real highlight, though, is the path that allows you to venture behind the falls. Standing there, enveloped by the cascading water and the echoing roar, is an experience that truly connects you with the raw power and grandeur of nature.

Reaching this point, however, requires a dedicated effort. The walk down to the waterfall involves steep, sometimes slippery steps. While manageable for most, it's definitely not for the faint of heart or anyone with mobility issues. Additionally, the car park is located quite a distance away from the trailhead, adding to the overall exertion required.

Another point to consider is the state of the on-site facilities. While toilets are available, some reviewers have mentioned unpleasant odors and unsanitary conditions. Encountering someone else's discarded sanitary pads is certainly not something you'd hope for on a day trip to a waterfall. Improved maintenance and cleaning schedules for these facilities would greatly enhance the visitor experience.

In conclusion, Sgwd yr Eira offers a breathtaking natural spectacle and a unique perspective on a waterfall. However, be prepared for a challenging walk and potentially underwhelming amenities. If you're up for a bit of an adventure and prioritize natural beauty, Sgwd yr Eira won't disappoint. Just be sure to wear sturdy footwear, pack some snacks and water for the walk, and maybe manage expectations when it comes to...

Visiting SGWD YR EIRA Falls was a truly enchanting experience that transported me to a world of natural beauty and tranquility. This hidden gem in Wales is a must-see for anyone who craves the magic of cascading waterfalls and untouched wilderness.

The hike leading to the falls was an adventure and quite complex by itself, with picturesque trails winding through lush forests and scenic vistas. As I neared the falls, the sound of rushing water grew more prominent, building up my excitement.

And then, there it was – SGWD YR EIRA Falls, a breathtaking sight to behold! The sheer power of the water as it plummeted down the rocks was awe-inspiring, and the mist that filled the air was refreshingly invigorating.

What sets SGWD YR EIRA apart is its accessibility. You can actually walk behind the waterfall! Feeling the cool spray on my skin as I stood behind the cascading water was an experience I'll never forget. It's as if nature itself was inviting me to be part of its beauty. Trust me I have never ever walked behind the waterfall and it's an ultimate experience.

The surroundings were serene and untouched, making it a perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers. I captured some of the most stunning shots, each one reflecting the raw, unspoiled essence of the falls and its surroundings.

A piece of advice for fellow travelers: Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring along a camera, and pack some snacks and water. The journey can be a bit challenging, but the reward of witnessing this natural wonder is beyond words.

I left with tons of memories in SGWD YR EIRA Falls, that will stay with me forever and a deep appreciation for the beauty our planet has to offer.

If you're seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure and a true connection with nature, make SGWD YR EIRA Falls your next destination. Embrace the adventure, and let this majestic waterfall steal a piece of your heart, just as it...