Autumn is slowly approaching and people are looking forward to the ‘ber’ months. Cosy season is a time to slow down and return to simplicity after the hectic summer holidays.
As much as people like to stay in and watch comfort films, there is also the joy of wrapping up warm and going for a nice hike in nature, and the waterfalls Wales has to offer are hard to beat at this time of year.
Dylan Nicholas, Media Relations Manager at Transport for Wales, said: “Autumn is the perfect season to enjoy a scenic waterfall walk, and Wales has some of the most dramatic waterfalls in Britain, from Henrhyd Falls near Coelbren or Devil’s Bridge Waterfalls in Ceredigion.”
“There is nothing like getting wrapped up and heading out in the cold to see a waterfall, especially after heavy rainfall,” He adds. “The best part of these waterfalls is that you can easily access them via public transport. So there’s no need to worry about muddy shoes ruining your car.”
Dylan shares his three favourite waterfall trails, all of which are highly accessible.
Devil’s Bridge Waterfalls (Rhaeadr Pontarfynach), Ceredigion
A magical set of three bridges stacked one upon the other over the Mynach Gorge, alongside a spectacular series of cascades.
“This is a moderate circular route that will take about an hour but is worth it for the view. You can take the steps that lead you down the Rheidol Gorge and back up the other side with breathtaking views of the tall Mynach waterfall. On the way back up, you can stand in the robbers’ cave and touch the waterfall from the decking viewpoint if it’s been raining very heavily prior to your visit,” says Lauren.
To get there, travel on the TfW network to Aberystwyth station. From there, the falls are the terminus of the scenic Vale of Rheidol Railway (a heritage line). Alternatively, local bus services run from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge.
Dolgoch Falls, Gwynedd
A beautiful series of three waterfalls cascading down a wooded ravine in southern Snowdonia, adding to the list of great waterfalls in North Wales. This is an accessible circular route which lets you visit the upper, middle and lower falls.
Dylan tells us: “This is a lovely, short route taking you to each of these falls and exploring the magical woodland surrounding them. This is a great family-friendly option to let the kids explore the mystical forest and falls.”
Dolgoch Falls are accessible on the mainline to Tywyn station. From here, you can join the Talyllyn Railway (a heritage line) to Dolgoch Station. It’s then just a short (signposted) walk to the falls.
Henrhyd Falls, Brecon Beacons National Park
At 90 feet (27m), this is the tallest waterfall in South Wales. Hidden away in a wooded gorge, the waterfall can also be seen from behind, as the path leads you behind the rushing water. “If you are wanting a short walk to visit the waterfall, it is definitely worth the travel as it is breathtaking. However, if you are more of a hiker, you can extend the walk along Nant Lech to see the quiet woodland and river.”
Take the train to Neath station. From Neath, connecting bus services are available, such as the X55 to Pontneddfechan, followed by a walk or a taxi to the falls’ parking area and descent path.
