Sgwd yr Eira Waterfal
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales
Sgwd yr Eira conjures up mystical images from its name alone, which translates as “waterfall of the snow” in English: luckily, it lives up to its title. This beloved Brecon Beacons waterfall is known for its torrent of water that you can walk behind, and is the grand finale of the Four Waterfalls Walk.
The basics
Sgwd yr Eira is fed by water from the Mellte River, which is a popular place for kayakers, rafters, and lovers of the great outdoors, while Sgwd yr Eira attracts walkers and photographers who can manage the hike to it. You can reach it independently, following the popular Four Waterfalls Walk or the Sgwd yr Eira Trail. Alternatively, join a guided hike to check off other waterfalls in the Brecon Beacons National Park.
Things to know before you go
The trails to reach Sgwd yr Eira are graded as “energetic” by the Brecon Beacons National Park.
The pathways leading to Sgwd yr Eira are noted for their uneven and steep terrain.
There are restrooms at the Cwm Porth car park, but not at the falls or the Dinas Rock car park.
Bring a picnic lunch and drink with you as there are no cafés or pubs along the route.
Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are essential, along with a raincoat to protect against the spray.
How to get there
You can access Sgwd yr Eira from several car parks near Ystradfellte in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The most popular routes are the Sgwd yr Eira Trail, departing from Dinas Rock car park, or from the Four Waterfalls Walk, starting from the either Gwaun Hepste or Cwm Porth car parks. From Dinas Rock it takes around an hour of walking to reach Sgwd yr Eira, while walkers generally reach Sgwd yr Eira from Cwm Porth after around three hours of walking (it’s the last of the namesake four waterfalls).
When to get there
The falls are at their most dramatic after periods of heavy rain, although you might want to wait until a couple of dry days have passed so that trails aren’t too slippery. If this ideal window of weather falls in the summer months, aim to start hiking early to avoid meeting lots of other walkers congregating at the Sgwd yr Eira ledge.
Other waterfall walks in the Brecon Beacons
Brecon Beacons National Park is known as Waterfall Country, so there’s no shortage of walks that showcase its cascades. Other popular routes include the short and moderate Sychryd Trail, which is manageable for sturdy buggies and wheelchairs, or the Elidir Trail, where you can search for the entrance to a fairy kingdom.
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