Top 11 Waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn
Best waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn are found within the scenic Snowdonia National Park, offering a range of natural cascades. This region is characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including ancient woodlands, rivers, and dramatic gorges. Visitors can explore various waterfall trails and walking routes, providing opportunities to experience the area's geological features. The surroundings of Llanuwchllyn feature numerous waterfalls, making it a destination for those interested in natural water formations.
Best waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn
- The most popular waterfalls is Pistyll Cain Waterfall, a viewpoint that crashes approximately 20 meters down into a large splash pool. It is located in Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park, offering a tranquil experience amidst ancient woodland trails.
- Another must-see spot is Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls, a natural monument consisting of two waterfalls cascading over 18 meters. These falls are nestled within the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, where the character of the falls changes with each season.
- Visitors also love Rhiwargor Waterfall, a river feature known for its spectacular high drop. Located at the northern end of Lake Vyrnwy, it is easily accessible via an easy walk.
- Llanuwchllyn is known for its natural monument waterfalls, river cascades, and gorge waterfalls. The area offers a variety of waterfall trails, from those within dense forests to those featuring dramatic rock formations.
- The waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn are appreciated by the komoot community, with 47 upvotes and 60 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Rhiwargor Waterfall
Highlight • River
Tip by
Pistyll Cain Waterfall
Highlight • Viewpoint
Below the falls is the confluence of Rivers Gain and Mawddach and another falls, Rhaeadr Mawddach is just up the latter river.
Tip by
Cynfal Falls (Rhaeadr Cynfal)
Highlight • Natural Monument
The power of the cascades have carved some interesting rock sculptures. Huw Llwyd's Pulpit is one such formation, a rock pillar named after a well-known local magician. The story goes that he used to stand on the rock and recite poetry and preach. This unique pedestal, he said, gave him protection from the evil, as the devil was supposedly afraid of water.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
A set of double falls, upper and lower. Both are quite tricky to photograph, the upper falls being the more precarious as you have to look over an edge to see the full drop. The lower falls are easier as you can get a low Point of View and hence get the flow of the water past you. These falls are only a few hundred yards up a well marked and obvious path, large car park on the main road at the bottom of the roadway.
0
0
The half-way point on the Minotaur mountain biking route at Coed y Brenin.
0
0
I started the opposite way of the route, going to the summit of Y Garn the shortest way. It was better. Starting the long way around is too tidings even going down. Be prepared to get lost without Komoot and the path they show (it’s like a compass) because the paths are hardly visible in places. There is an old gold mine worth passing by. The views from Y Garn are well worth all the sweat.
0
0
The hike up to the waterfall is well worth it. Beautiful scenery and a great path leading from the car park all the way to the waterfall.
1
0
The reserve at Coed Ganllwyd includes a steep, wooded gorge with tall waterfalls. The main attraction for many is the spectacular Black Falls of Rhaeadr Ddu on the Afon Gamlan. The forest is part of a wider Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and is part of the Coedydd Derw a Safleoedd Ystlumod Meirion/Merionnydd Oak Woods and Bat Sites Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The wet climate that nourishes the falls also creates the humid conditions in the gorge, making it the richest place for mosses in northwestern Europe. The rocks and tree trunks are decorated with the green and gray growth of these simple plants. The trees largely escaped felling during two world wars and are an excellent example of the ancient oak forest of this part of Wales. (VisitMidWales)
10
0
Rhaeadr Du (Black Falls in English) is a 20 meter waterfall that plunges over 2 steps onto the fast flowing Afon Gamlan as it passes through the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve at the spectacular Coed-y-Brenin Forest or Forest of the Kings . At the waterfall, large stone steps lead to a kind of viewing platform that offers beautiful views of the falls. Visitors are advised to exercise caution as the area can be very slippery and dangerous in wet weather. (Snowdonia guide)
9
0
Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls in English) is a beautiful waterfall of 20 meters that falls over 2 steps. The name Black Falls is derived from the black stone over which the waterfall falls. From Ganllwyd it is a short walk through the Coed Ganllwyd National Nature Reserve, at the Coed-y-Brenin Forest, to the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall in the River Afon Gamlan.
10
0
This spectacular high waterfall, one of the hidden gems of Wales, gushes down the heather clad slopes of the valley of Afon Eiddew, near Lake Vyrnwy, known locally as Pistyll Rhyd-y-meincau, it is commonly known as Rhiwargor Waterfall.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic waterfall walks near Llanuwchllyn?
For a beautiful waterside walk, explore the turbulent River Gamlan leading to Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) Waterfalls. The journey to Pistyll Cain Waterfall offers well-marked trails through ancient woodland. Cynfal Falls (Rhaeadr Cynfal) provides a delightful experience amidst lush green moss and ancient trees, with a restored Victorian viewing platform.
Are there any hidden gem waterfalls worth discovering near Llanuwchllyn?
Pistyll Cain Waterfall is often considered a hidden gem, offering a tranquil and less-known experience compared to more famous waterfalls. Its trails through ancient woodland, wooden bridges, and riverside paths make the journey enjoyable for those seeking peace. Similarly, Cynfal Falls (Rhaeadr Cynfal) is described as "little frequented yet undoubtedly beautiful," with its dramatic wooded gorge and unique rock sculptures.
Are there family-friendly waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn?
Rhiwargor Waterfall at Lake Vyrnwy is easily accessible via an easy walk from a free car park with picnic facilities, making it a great option for families. Dolgoch Falls, though not directly in Llanuwchllyn, is also accessible via a short, beautiful circular walk and can even be reached by the Talyllyn Railway, offering a unique and convenient family destination.
Which waterfalls near Llanuwchllyn are suitable for dog walking?
Many of the trails leading to waterfalls in Snowdonia National Park are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a lead, especially in nature reserves or near livestock. The walks to Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) and Pistyll Cain through Coed-y-Brenin Forest are generally suitable for dogs, offering varied terrain and natural surroundings.
What are the difficulty levels of waterfall trails near Llanuwchllyn?
Difficulty levels vary. The walk to Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) is moderate, with some slippery, rocky sections requiring care. Rhiwargor Waterfall is known for its easy accessibility. Trails to Cynfal Falls (Rhaeadr Cynfal) can involve narrow paths close to the edge. Dolgoch Falls paths can be steep and rocky, especially to the upper falls, offering a moderate challenge.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn?
The waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn are impressive year-round. They are particularly dramatic after heavy rainfall, which makes the cascades more powerful. Spring and autumn offer beautiful seasonal colors in the surrounding woodlands, while summer provides pleasant hiking conditions. Winter visits can be stunning but require extra caution due to slippery conditions.
What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the waterfalls near Llanuwchllyn?
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes like those around Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park, which is home to Pistyll Cain Waterfall. For cycling, consider routes around Lake Bala, or for mountain biking, explore the MTB Trails around Llanuwchllyn. Many waterfalls are also integrated into scenic hiking trails.
Do any waterfalls near Llanuwchllyn have historical significance?
Yes, Cynfal Falls (Rhaeadr Cynfal) features "Huw Llwyd's Pulpit," a rock pillar named after a 17th-century local magician and bard who supposedly recited poetry and preached there. The area around Rhaeadr Ddu (Black Falls) also has historical remnants of gold mining operations.
Can I go wild swimming near any of the waterfalls?
Rhiwargor Waterfall at Lake Vyrnwy is a popular spot for outdoor swimming, especially for those who enjoy a dip in scenic surroundings. Additionally, visitors to Pistyll Cain Waterfall have noted that it's possible to swim in the river beneath the falls.
What do visitors enjoy most about the waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many enjoy the peaceful and mystical ancient woodlands, the dramatic cascades, and the changing character of the falls with each season. The opportunity for waterside walks, photography, and experiencing the raw power of nature, especially after rainfall, are frequently highlighted.
Are there any waterfalls near Llanuwchllyn accessible by public transport?
While Llanuwchllyn itself is small, Dolgoch Falls, though a bit further afield, is uniquely accessible by the Talyllyn Railway, offering a convenient and scenic public transport option. For other waterfalls, public transport options may be limited, and a combination of bus services and walking or personal transport is often required to reach trailheads.
Most popular attractions around Llanuwchllyn
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Llanuwchllyn:
