4.4
(228)
1,999
hikers
92
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Pontardawe traverse a diverse landscape, characterized by the River Tawe and Swansea Canal, offering accessible and scenic routes. The region features Cwm Du Glen with its gorge and waterfalls, alongside varied woodlands and hills that provide expansive views over the Swansea Valley. Hikers can explore a mix of natural beauty and historical industrial heritage, with paths often following former railway lines or canal routes. The terrain includes riverbanks, canal towpaths, and gentle hills, making it suitable for easy excursions.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
22
hikers
5.62km
01:26
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
5.62km
01:30
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.18km
01:08
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Low bridge - probably best to lower your saddle - or even better - walk your bike under this bridge
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Nice gravel track down to the reservoir with lovely views. Track down can get muddy but good fun. Do-able on a gravel bike
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Easy walking along the Eastern and Southern edges of the reservoir, courtesy of the Gower Way (a 35-mile path linking Penller Castell to Rhossili if you fancy stretching your legs a little further). Fantastic views.
4
0
Cyclists need to be aware of vehicles and walkers using the road between the Lower and Upper reservoir.
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The lower reservoir is not suitable to go around. There are steep steps at one end.
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Amazing little trail through the woods, very picturesque. Well worth a visit! Some parts of the trail are very muddy and a few logs to climb over but my four year old son coped well on his bike
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There are over 40 easy hiking trails around Pontardawe, forming a significant portion of the nearly 100 routes available in the area. These trails are designed for accessibility and enjoyment, offering diverse landscapes.
Easy hiking trails in Pontardawe primarily follow the scenic River Tawe and historic Swansea Canal, offering well-maintained paths. You'll find routes along riverbanks, canal towpaths, and through gentle woodlands, making them suitable for relaxed walks. Some paths also traverse rewilded former industrial areas, now thriving with nature.
Yes, the region is known for its waterfalls. While many trails offer glimpses of cascades, the Piggy's loop from Pontardawe is known to pass by an unnamed waterfall. For a more prominent waterfall experience, Cwm Du Glen, a local nature reserve, features a picturesque waterfall, though specific easy trails directly to it may vary.
Many of the easy trails around Pontardawe are suitable for families. Routes along the Swansea Canal Towpath, such as the Swansea Canal Towpath loop from Pontardawe, offer flat, well-maintained paths ideal for all ages. The varied habitats also provide opportunities for wildlife observation, which can be engaging for children.
Yes, many easy hiking trails in Pontardawe are dog-friendly. The paths along the River Tawe and Swansea Canal are popular choices for walks with pets. Always ensure your dog is under control, especially in areas with wildlife or near livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions on individual routes.
Yes, Pontardawe offers several excellent circular easy hiking routes. Examples include the Upper Lliw Reservoir – Brynllefrith Plantation Trail loop from Mawr, which provides a tranquil natural setting, and the Woodland Stream – Wooden Bridge on Singletrack loop from Clydach, offering a pleasant woodland experience.
Along easy trails, you can discover a blend of natural beauty and historical industrial heritage. The Swansea Canal features old locks and bridges. You might also encounter remnants of the area's industrial past, such as former railway lines or canal routes. Natural highlights include diverse woodlands, river views, and local nature reserves like the Swansea Canal Nature Reserve, which you can explore on the Old Canal Lock and Bridges – Swansea Canal Nature Reserve loop from Pontardawe.
The easy hiking trails in Pontardawe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the paths, the scenic river and canal views, and the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands. The blend of natural beauty with glimpses of industrial heritage is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, parts of the Swansea Canal Towpath and sections of National Cycle Trail 43 feature easily accessible paths. These routes are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, allowing a wider range of visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Easy hikes in Pontardawe vary in length but are generally manageable. For instance, the Swansea Canal Towpath loop from Pontardawe is about 3.5 miles (5.6 km) and takes approximately 1 hour 26 minutes. Shorter options like the Upper Lliw Reservoir – Brynllefrith Plantation Trail loop from Mawr are around 1.9 miles (3.1 km), taking about 1 hour.
Parking is generally available near popular trailheads and in Pontardawe town itself. For routes along the Swansea Canal, you can often find parking in designated areas close to canal access points. Specific parking information may be available on individual route pages.
Yes, there are several attractions in the wider area. You could visit the historic Carreg Cennen Castle, explore the Amman Valley Cycleway, or discover other waterfalls like Melincourt Falls. For more ideas, you can explore the Attractions around Pontardawe guide.


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