Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
Top 9 Natural Monuments around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
Best natural monuments around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm showcase a landscape shaped by both nature and its industrial past, now offering diverse natural attractions. This region in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales, features ancient woodlands, dramatic glacial cwms, and prominent rock formations. These sites provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, wildlife observation, and appreciation of natural beauty. The area's natural features highlight its ecological value and geological history.
Best natural monuments around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
- The most popular natural monuments is Garth Summit, a viewpoint that offers commanding views just outside Cardiff. This UK listed Marilyn provides a vantage point for sunrises or sunsets.
- Another must-see spot is Pen-Pych Waterfall, a challenging natural monument featuring a series of cascades over a sheer sedimentary rock face. The base of the waterfall is enveloped by half-amphitheatre cliffs, adding to its impressive appearance.
- Visitors also love Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point, a natural monument and viewpoint on a hill in South Wales. This location offers panoramic views and is crowned by a trig point.
- Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm is known for its diverse natural monuments, including viewpoints, waterfalls, and glacial features. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from ancient woodlands to dramatic rock formations.
- The natural monuments around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm are appreciated by the komoot community. These highlights have received more than 150 upvotes and feature over 50 photos from visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Garth Summit
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Pen-Pych Waterfall
Highlight • Viewpoint
The base of waterfall is enveloped by a half amphitheatre cliffs which only adds to the waterfalls impressive appearance.
Theres is no plunge pool at the base of the falls, instead the tallest section spills 21m onto number of boulders which have tumbled from the cliffs above in years gone by.
The path will lead you to a large rocky viewing area to the right hand side of the falls beneath the cliffs. You can climb up to the base of the falls, if you do do that take care as the rocks can be very slippery.
(ohwhataknight.co.uk/blog/pen-pych-mountain-and-waterfall-hike-guide)
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
Giant's Bite
Highlight • Viewpoint
The site was intensively grazed up to the mid-1990s when a large belt of native trees were planted on the lower slopes.
These trees are now maturing and have helped to heal the visible mining scares. The shales forming the upper soil horizons support a wide variety of native flowering grassland species including wild strawberry, cowslip, foxglove and wild thyme, and the site is increasingly becoming re-vegetated by scrub species.
Incredibly Fine views of the Taff and Cynon valleys are afforded from the summit ridge, while the line of the former Glamorganshire Canal is also discernible.
Tip by
Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
The Rocking Stone and the Gorsedd Circle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm.
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
The Garth has a nice flat top with views across the valleys. Lots of sheep grazing too (March). Also a number of mounds provide some cover from the wind if a break is in order
0
0
Resembling something which should be found in Iceland, Pen Pych waterfall is a series of cascades which tumble over a sheer sided sedimentary rock face. The base of waterfall is enveloped by a half amphitheatre cliffs which only adds to the waterfalls impressive appearance. Theres is no plunge pool at the base of the falls, instead the tallest section spills 21m onto number of boulders which have tumbled from the cliffs above in years gone by. The path will lead you to a large rocky viewing area to the right hand side of the falls beneath the cliffs. You can climb up to the base of the falls, if you do do that take care as the rocks can be very slippery. (https://ohwhataknight.co.uk/blog/pen-pych-mountain-and-waterfall-hike-guide)
4
0
Beautiful waterfall with free parking easy trail up not to hard
1
1
High above the A470 to the north of Quaker’s Yard, the Giant’s Bite is a dramatic gap in the skyline quarried from the ridge top at the former Cefn Glas mine and quarry. ❤️👌 The site was intensively grazed up to the mid-1990s when a large belt of native trees were planted on the lower slopes. These trees are now maturing and have helped to heal the visible mining scares. The shales forming the upper soil horizons support a wide variety of native flowering grassland species including wild strawberry, cowslip, foxglove and wild thyme, and the site is increasingly becoming re-vegetated by scrub species. Incredibly Fine views of the Taff and Cynon valleys are afforded from the summit ridge, while the line of the former Glamorganshire Canal is also discernible.
1
0
A beautiful waterfall often overlooked by the masses as they head for more famous waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons. But you know better! Be aware that in places the footpath is narrow, uneven and very steep. You will need to take extra care in the wet / after prolonged rain.
5
1
Cefn Eglwysilan is a hill in South Wales, the twin 1,253 feet (382 m) summits of which lie just over one mile (2 km) east of Pontypridd in Rhondda Cynon Taf county borough. Its eastern side lies within the community of Aber Valley in Caerphilly county borough. Like neighbouring Mynydd Eglwysilan, the hill is named after the hamlet of Eglwysilan, the church here being dedicated to an obscure saint Ilan. A wireless transmission station is sited on the more northerly of the two summits (at OS grid ref ST 099911). The southerly one is crowned by a trig point. It is a UK listed Marilyn.
3
0
Stunning little hill with commanding views just outside Cardiff with a trig pointed summit. It is a UK listed Marilyn.
5
0
Beautiful little hill on the outskirts of Cardiff with a trig pointed summit and commanding views. Lovely place to catch a sunrise/set.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Ynysybwl and Coed-Y-Cwm?
Visitors frequently enjoy Garth Summit, which offers commanding views just outside Cardiff. Another popular spot is Pen-Pych Waterfall, known for its impressive cascades. Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point also provides panoramic views from its hilltop location.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the region?
The area boasts diverse natural features, including ancient woodlands like Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve, dramatic glacial cwms such as Tarren y Bwllfa, and prominent rock formations like Rock Ar Valla. You'll also find waterfalls, reservoirs, and expansive forests, offering a rich variety of landscapes.
Are there any historical natural monuments in the area?
Yes, The Rocking Stone and the Gorsedd Circle is a significant historical natural monument. The Rocking Stone itself is a glacial boulder from the Ice Age, and the surrounding stone circle was constructed in 1849, often used for Bardic gatherings.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or walks suitable for children?
Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve offers tranquil woodland walks that are generally suitable for families. While specific family-friendly ratings aren't always available for all sites, areas with well-maintained paths and less challenging terrain, like parts of St Gwynno's Forest, can be enjoyable for families. The Rocking Stone and the Gorsedd Circle is also listed as family-friendly.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes, cycling paths, and running trails. For detailed routes, check out the gravel biking guide, cycling guide, and running trails guide for Ynysybwl and Coed-Y-Cwm.
Are there hiking or walking trails associated with these natural monuments?
Absolutely. Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve features woodland walks, and St Gwynno's Forest offers numerous trails for hiking and exploring, including paths around Clydach Reservoir and to Pystyll Golau. Tarren y Bwllfa also has trails like the Penrhiwllech Trail, providing opportunities for moderate to strenuous hikes. You can find more walking routes in the running trails guide, which often includes walking options.
What is special about Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve?
Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve is an ancient semi-natural woodland, protected since 2010. It's known for its diverse broadleaf trees, rich ground flora including bluebells and wild garlic, and notable species like the Bird's-nest Orchid. It offers tranquil walks and is an important habitat for wildlife.
What can I expect at St Gwynno's Forest?
St Gwynno's Forest is an expansive woodland with rolling hills, a mix of trees, and abundant bird life. It features the Clydach Reservoir and hides Pystyll Golau, known as the 'waterfall of light.' The forest provides numerous trails for walking, cycling, and pony trekking, making it a refreshing escape for nature enthusiasts.
What makes Tarren y Bwllfa unique?
Tarren y Bwllfa is a dramatic glacial cwm, recognized as one of Britain's most southerly. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons and showcases the healing of former industrial landscapes through tree planting and diverse flowering grassland species. It also features the Berw-ddu waterfall, particularly impressive after rain.
What are the views like from Garth Summit or Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point?
Both Garth Summit and Cefn Eglwysilan Trig Point offer commanding and panoramic views. From Garth Summit, you can enjoy vistas across the valleys, perfect for sunrises or sunsets. Cefn Eglwysilan provides extensive views over the South Wales landscape.
Is there a 'waterfall of light' in the area?
Yes, within St Gwynno's Forest, you can find Pystyll Golau, which is referred to as the 'waterfall of light.' It's a picturesque natural highlight hidden within the forest's secret paths and trails, offering a captivating natural spectacle.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Ynysybwl and Coed-Y-Cwm?
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for visiting, offering pleasant temperatures for walking and vibrant natural displays. Spring brings blooming flora like bluebells in Coed y Cwm, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Waterfalls like Pen-Pych and Berw-ddu are often most impressive during wetter periods.
Are the natural monuments accessible for all fitness levels?
The difficulty varies. Coed y Cwm Local Nature Reserve offers tranquil woodland walks suitable for many. However, some sites like Pen-Pych Waterfall involve challenging, steep, and uneven footpaths, especially after rain. Tarren y Bwllfa also has trails ranging from moderate to strenuous. It's advisable to check specific route details for each monument.
Most popular routes around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
Most popular attractions around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ynysybwl And Coed-Y-Cwm:
