Neath Waterfalls Walk
9.3 miles (15 km)This long circular walk explores the rivers and waterfalls in the Vale of Neath, also known as 'Waterfall Country'. It's a spectacularly beautiful area with a huge number of waterfalls to see.
The falls are of varying size with some of them allowing you to walk behind them for a really special experience.
This route runs for about 9 miles on generally good footpaths with some moderate climbing as you cross the countrsyide between the two woodland gorges.
Walk Report October 8th 2026 By Gareth Williams:
We started our walk in Pontneddfechan, a small village on the edge of Waterfall Country where the sound of running water seems to follow you into the surrounding woods.... Before setting off, we took a moment to look around the village, with the historic Angel Inn standing close to the old Waterfalls Centre. It felt like a proper walking village, with footpaths leading straight from the houses into the wooded valleys. The weather was overcast, but the recent rain had left the rivers flowing strongly.
Our first stretch followed the Afon Nedd Fechan north through a wooded gorge, where moss-covered rocks, tree roots and the sound of rushing water made the path feel quite atmospheric. We branched off beside the Afon Pyrddin to visit Sgwd Gwladus, also known as the Lady Fall. The waterfall tumbles over a rocky ledge into the woodland below, and we stayed for a while to watch the water pouring over the edge. The paths were damp underfoot, so walking boots with a good grip were useful on the muddier and rockier sections.
After returning to the main river, we continued towards the countryside around Ystradfellte. This part of the walk was a contrast to the enclosed gorge, with more open ground and views across the surrounding hills. We then joined the trails around the Four Waterfalls Walk, visiting Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr and Sgwd-yr-Eira. Each waterfall had its own character, from the broad rush of water over rock ledges to the famous curtain of water at Sgwd-yr-Eira. The paths here can be busy, particularly around the best-known falls, but there were quieter stretches where we could stop and listen to the rivers without anyone else nearby.
Sgwd-yr-Eira was one of the highlights of the day. The path behind the waterfall is a memorable feature, although the rocks can be extremely slippery and the spray makes it easy to get wet. We watched our footing carefully and gave other walkers room on the narrow sections. Water levels make a real difference to the experience here: after rainfall the falls are impressive, but the same conditions can make the paths more challenging.
The return leg took us through woodland east of Ystradfellte before bringing us back towards Pontneddfechan. By this stage, the distance was beginning to tell, and the changes between riverside tracks, uneven woodland paths and open countryside made the walk feel longer than a simple waterfall stroll. We were glad to have taken water and snacks, and to have allowed several hours rather than trying to rush between the falls.
Back in Pontneddfechan, the Angel Inn looked like a welcome place to finish the day, with its long association with walkers exploring the surrounding valleys. The village is a useful base for other routes too, including shorter walks to Sgwd Gwladus if you do not fancy tackling the full circuit. This is a rewarding walk for anyone wanting to experience several of the area's best-known waterfalls in one outing, but sturdy footwear, careful navigation and a sensible allowance for the distance are essential.
Near the town of Neath itself there are two more lovely waterfalls to visit. You could head north of the town to Aberdulais Falls where you can enjoy the rushing water of the River Dulais surrounded by cliffs and interesting vegetation.
To the east you can visit the 80 feet high Melincourt Falls near Resolven.
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Nearby Routes
Pontneddfechan Waterfalls Walk Four Waterfalls Walk Aberdulais Falls Melincourt Falls Sgwd Yr Eira Walk Fforest Fawr
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