Top 5 Waterfalls in Snowdonia

Home to Mount Snowden, the tallest peak in Wales, from which you can see Ireland, Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man on a clear day, Snowdonia is full of stunning natural beauty. From rugged mountains to picturesque valleys, from idyllic lakes to dramatic waterfalls, Snowdonia has unique and awe-inspiring landscapes everywhere you look. Even amongst the waterfalls, Snowdonia shows remarkable variety, with some accessible to the whole family and others remote and wild. How would one even begin to choose the best waterfalls in Snowdonia? Together Travel has put together this guide to introduce you to five of our favourites. 

Swallow Falls

Location: Near Betws-y-Coed

This charming waterfall has been featured in many films, and for good reason: it is thought to be one of the most beautiful places in all of Wales. In fact, Swallow Falls, more accurately known as Rhaeadr Ewynnol, has been designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty. This spectacular waterfall is actually a serious of dramatic cascades, and accessible viewing platforms make it easy to enjoy and to photograph. Located along the Afon Llugwy, the falls are surrounded by beguiling woodlands and charming rural countryside, so it is a perfect spot for a picnic as well as a family walk. You can enjoy these falls from the south bank of the Llugwy, but taking the Swallow Falls Trail from the Ty’n Llwyn Car Park affords you a more dramatic view. You will also get to enjoy the walk, heading through the gorgeous Gwydir Forest Park and along the northern bank to reach Swallow Falls. The parking is free, but access to the two platforms, through a secure turnstile, requires a fee.

Aber Falls

Location: Near Abergwyngregyn

Reaching a height of 37 metres, this is the biggest waterfall in Snowdonia. It is also the perfect waterfall for family outings, reached by a scenic walking trail through lush greenery. This majestic giant is absolutely breathtaking, and as you explore this wonderful site, taking in the falls from a variety of angles, you will be treated to a bonus waterfall, called Rhaeadr Bach. Rhaeadr Bach means small waterfall, and while it is not as imposing as Aber Falls, it does have plunge pools, and you can climb alongside it. Nestled in the foothills of the Carneddau Mountains, one of nine mountain ranges in Snowdonia, Aber Falls is located near the village of Abergwyngregyn, which gives it its nickname. Its true name is Rhaeadr Fawr, which means, accurately enough, large waterfall. It can be reached by taking the A55 to junction 13 and following the signs. Parking in Aber Falls Car Park, you will find a well-maintained path, push chair friendly, leading you on your lovely walk to this stunning waterfall. 

Rhaeadr Ddu

Location: Coed y Brenin Forest Park

Nestled in a forest park, offering serene walks and a tranquil atmosphere, Rhaeadr Ddu is a breathtaking 20 metre waterfall that falls over two steps. Because of its woodland setting, it changes character with the season, and with old trees, open forests, and amazing views to take in, it is well worth a visit. The name Rhaeadr Ddu means black falls in English, and it is so named because the waterfall tumbles over black stones. There are a few different paths that can be taken to reach this waterfall, and some are quite steep, so be mindful. Once you arrive, you will find large stone steps leading to a viewing platform, and visitors are advised to be careful, because this area can become slippery when wet. 

Dolgoch Falls

Location: Near Tywyn

If you are looking for a perfect nature walk, you will not find one much better than the picturesque woodland trail leading to this series of three impressive waterfalls. No matter what time of year you visit, the falls will be beautiful and scenic, offering restful serenity when the weather is fine, and thundering power when it is wet outside. Be aware that the paths can be steep for all but the lower falls, so it is important to be careful when walking up to them. The Dolgoch Falls form part of the Nant Dol-Góch stream, which runs into the River Fathew. They can be reached via the Tal y Lyn Railway, or you can simply take a short walk from the Dolgoch B&B. Heading along a beautiful stream, you will pass caves and tunnels you can explore if you would like, and if you would like to take your dogs, they will have plenty of opportunities to play in the water. 

Pistyll Rhaeadr

Location: Berwyn Mountains

This one is not quite in Snowdonia, but rather on the edge of it, west of Oswestry, but it is even bigger than Aber Falls, with an 80- metre drop! It is a hidden gem, registered as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales, and it is very dramatic, falling in three stages over a high cliff. In a secluded location, flowing through a natural arch shaped rock, this extraordinary waterfall is one of the best in Wales. At its base you will find Tan-y-Pistyll, a little house where you will find tea and snacks to enjoy after you have worked up an appetite exploring. To reach Pistyll Rhaeadr, drive through the main square of Llanrhaeadr, then turn right onto Waterfall Street. Follow this single lane road for about four miles, and you will arrive at a small car park. From there, it is a short walk to the base of the waterfall, where a picturesque bridge crosses the river to the woodlands. To get to the top of the falls, you will need to ascend the mountain, which will take roughly 20 to 30 minutes. 

Tips for Visiting the Falls

Wales is renowned for its rain, which is why it has so many amazing waterfalls! Because they are some of the most enchanting waterfalls in the world, they can get very busy, especially in summer. Visiting them during the wetter months means you will have less of a crowd to navigate, but it also guarantees they will be at their wildest and most impressive. Even if the weather is dry, it is advisable to wear appropriate footwear and a waterproof coat, but if you enjoy wild swimming, you should also pack your swimming things, as almost all of these waterfalls offer some sort of refreshing plunge pool. 

Let Together Travel Help You Plan Your Dream Holiday

When you are ready to travel to a destination surrounded by exquisite natural beauty, Together Travel Co. is here to bring your holiday dreams to life, just around the corner from home. In North Wales, we offer a unique collection of luxury cottages and modern apartments on the Llyn Peninsula, just a short drive from the glories of Snowdonia. Here, you will find a wide variety of beautiful, self-catering holiday homes, ranging from converted barns full of character to a traditional Welsh farmhouse to contemporary cottages and apartments, perfect for your next holiday. In fact, all across the UK, we have luxurious, comfortable, unique properties located wherever you want to be, spending your holidays connecting, relaxing, and enjoying all the delights that these vacation spots have to offer. Find out how we can make your trip amazing by contacting our expert concierge team at +44(0)1625 416430 or emailing us for more information.