North Wales is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe. And with autumn upon us now is a great time to head off into the countryside and explore them. But what are the most stunning waterfalls to discover in North Wales?
1. Aber Falls, Abergwyngregyn, Gwynedd
Aber Falls is a waterfall located about two miles south of the village of Abergwyngregyn, in Gwynedd, North Wales. A circular walk to the Falls begins in Abergwyngregyn itself. The route is a family friendly circular walk that goes past Aber Falls waterfall (also known as Rhaeadr Fawr), then returns via the North Wales Path, high above the valley. The falls are quite spectacular, but be cautious of the spray landing on the rocks below, which can make the area slippery. Since this route is only around 2 kilometres, and isn’t subject to a steep gradient, it is suitable for families and pushchairs.
Aber Falls, Gwynedd
2. Rhaeadr y Parc Mawr – Gray Mare’s Tail
The next great waterfall to discover in North Wales can be found on the very edge of Snowdonia National Park near Gwydir Castle. It goes by the name ‘The Grey Mare’s Tail’ (Welsh: Rhaeadr y Parc Mawr). The waterfall is situated on the eastern edge of Gwydir Forest, which was established by The Forestry Commission in 1921. The waterfall actually consists of two falls, which drop into a deep plunge pool beneath. The falls are an incredible natural spectacle on a very dramatic walk, which takes about 3 hours to complete.
3. Watkin Path
The Watkin Path is for more experienced hikers, and its most popular route is 12 kilometers, taking around 5-6 hours to complete. The first portion of the Watkin Path is where you will encounter the waterfalls; the route passes close to the multiple cascades of the Afon Cwm Llan as it falls to join the Afon Glaslyn. Best experienced in the summer, the series of Watkin Path waterfalls consist of large, deep, clear pools one after the other. The Watkin Path itself starts from the main A498 road, around two miles outside Beddgelert. There’s a car park at the roadside between the two big lakes – Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant, and this is a great starting point.
4. Llanberis Cuenant Mawr Waterfall
Also known as Llanberis Falls, this spectacular waterfall cascades over 100 feet, over two stages. The falls are easily reached from Llanberis itself, making the route popular with both tourists and locals. You begin the walk at the Snowdon Mountain Railway Station, then simply follow the signposts for ‘Ceunant Mawr Waterfall’ on your left. The hike offers jaw-dropping views of Llyn Padarn. This walk is short, and can be completed in around 30 minutes.
Llanberis Falls in North Wales.
5. Swallow Falls, Betws-y-Coed
Swallow Falls are an area of outstanding natural beauty, where the river Llugwy flows through a narrow chasm creating a spectacular waterfall in its wake. Swallow Falls is the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in Wales, and undoubtedly one of the country’s most famous natural wonders. The name translates as ‘foaming waterfall’, with the English name thought to be a mis-translation of Rhaeadr y Wennol. Most visitors reach the waterfall via the carpark on the A5, where viewing platforms can be found. However, a more interesting approach can be made on foot, along the north bank of the river, which is a challenging hike, but provides spectacular views.