The best walks and hikes around Rheola Forest

Yes, the area offers several easy walks suitable for families. The path to Melincourt Falls is a particularly good option. It's a short, gently rising trail through a nature reserve leading to an impressive 80-foot waterfall, making it an exciting and manageable adventure for all ages.

Dogs are welcome on most trails in and around Rheola Forest. The varied paths, from woodland tracks to canal towpaths, provide great walking opportunities for you and your dog. Please keep your dog under control, especially near wildlife and any livestock on upland paths.

The region is well-known for its waterfalls. The most famous is Melincourt Falls, located in a beautiful nature reserve. The high humidity around the falls supports a rich variety of ferns. The walk to the falls is short and accessible, taking about 15-20 minutes each way from the car park.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from flat, easy-going canal towpaths to moderate ascents through dense woodlands and across open hillsides. Some paths, like the ancient Sarn Helen, can be uneven with original Roman cobbles still visible in places.

Yes, there are many circular routes to choose from. For a longer, more challenging loop, consider the Willow Springs Campsite loop from Glyncorrwg. This 7.7-mile (12.3 km) trail takes you through the surrounding forest and is great for those with a good level of fitness.

There are over 140 hiking routes to explore in the region. This extensive network includes everything from short waterfall walks and flat canal paths to more strenuous forest treks, offering plenty of options for hikers of all abilities.

Yes, you can walk a section of Sarn Helen, a Roman road that runs along a high ridge between the Neath and Dulais valleys. This ancient route offers a unique sense of history and remoteness, with some original cobbled sections and historical markers like the Maen Madoc stone still visible.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the beautiful scenery, from the tranquil Neath Canal to the impressive waterfalls and quiet woodlands. The variety of routes, catering to different fitness levels, is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

The Neath Canal towpath offers a peaceful and mostly flat walking experience, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, you can observe historic locks and enjoy the local birdlife. The Neath Canal Path and Lock – Resolven Canal Basin loop from Resolven is a popular 5.7-mile (9.1 km) route that explores this historic waterway.

For a substantial hike, the Resolven Canal Basin – Neath Canal Path and Lock loop from Melincourt is an excellent choice. This 8.4-mile (13.6 km) route combines a walk along the canal with other local paths, offering varied scenery over several hours.

You can expect a rich mix of scenery. Hikes will take you through dense, atmospheric forests, along historic canal towpaths, past cascading waterfalls like Melincourt Falls, and onto high, remote ridges that offer expansive views of the surrounding valleys.

While many trails are easy or moderate, you can find more challenging options. The Afan Forest Wind Turbines – Afan Forest loop from Glyncorrwg is a moderate hike with nearly 300 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout with rewarding views.