A wide curtain waterfall in Waterfall Country that walkers can pass behind
Waterfall Country

Four Waterfalls Walk

A spectacular woodland and gorge walk taking in four of the Brecon Beacons' most famous falls: Sgwd Clun-gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira — the waterfall you can walk behind.

Overview

Wales' best waterfall viewpoints

The Four Waterfalls Walk is one of the most iconic routes in the Brecon Beacons. Set in the lush gorges of the Afon Mellte and Afon Hepste, this walk offers dramatic scenery, deep woodland, and some of the best waterfall viewpoints in Wales.

A second dramatic waterfall along the Four Waterfalls trail
Key facts

Plan your visit

Distance
5.5 miles / 9 km circular
Time
3–4 hours
Difficulty
Moderate (steep, uneven paths)
Terrain
Forest trails, rocky steps, gorge paths
Start / Finish
Gwaun Hepste Car Park (CF44 9JF)
Parking
Pay-and-display
OS Map
OL12 – Brecon Beacons (Central)
Suitable for
Adventurous families, photographers, nature lovers
Route description

Step by step

  1. 1

    Gwaun Hepste Car Park

    Begin on the well-marked trail through woodland and open clearings.

  2. 2

    Sgwd Clun-gwyn

    The first waterfall appears dramatically in a deep gorge. A fenced viewpoint offers safe viewing.

  3. 3

    Sgwd Isaf Clun-gwyn

    Follow the gorge path downstream to reach this layered, powerful cascade.

  4. 4

    Sgwd y Pannwr

    Continue along the riverside track to reach this long, elegant waterfall with swirling pools.

  5. 5

    Sgwd yr Eira

    The highlight of the walk — a broad curtain of water with a safe path behind the waterfall. Expect spray and slippery rocks.

  6. 6

    Woodland Return

    Climb back through the forest to rejoin the main trail and return to the car park.

A hiker approaching one of the Four Waterfalls trail's cascades

Highlights

  • Walk behind Sgwd yr Eira — one of Wales' most unique experiences
  • Four major waterfalls in a single route
  • Lush gorge scenery and ancient woodland
  • Perfect for photography year-round

Safety notes

  • Paths can be very slippery, especially near waterfalls
  • Wear sturdy footwear with good grip
  • Keep children supervised near steep drops
  • Avoid the gorge paths in high water conditions

Facilities

  • Pay-and-display parking
  • Seasonal toilets (check availability)
  • Nearest cafés and shops: Ystradfellte & Hirwaun
Take it with you

Download the route

Get the GPX track for the Four Waterfalls Walk to load into your GPS device or hiking app.

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