Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Waterfalls
United Kingdom
Wales
South Wales
Rhondda Cynon Taf

Treorchy

Top 8 Waterfalls around Treorchy

Best waterfalls around Treorchy are found within the surrounding Rhondda Fawr Valley in South Wales. This region offers natural landscapes and walking opportunities. The area features impressive waterfalls and scenic trails, providing a setting for outdoor exploration. The valley combines rugged mountain scenery with forested paths.

Best waterfalls around Treorchy

  • The most popular waterfalls is Pwll Berw Falls, a natural monument that involves a loose, steep trail down to pools. Good footwear is essential for navigating the gorge to reach these falls.
  • Another must-see spot is Pen-Pych Waterfall, a viewpoint featuring a series of cascades tumbling over a sheer sedimentary rock face. The tallest section of the falls plunges 21 meters onto boulders.
  • Visitors also love Cwm Clydach Countryside Park, a lake area with waterfalls and an on-site cafe. This park offers an oasis for wildlife with views and walking alongside lakes.
  • Treorchy is known for cascades, falls with pools, and waterfalls within natural parks. Visitors can explore a variety of waterfall types and settings.
  • The waterfalls around Treorchy are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and 25 photos shared.

Last updated: May 2, 2026

Pen-Pych Waterfall

Highlight • Viewpoint

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.

(ohwhataknight.co.uk/blog/pen-pych-mountain-and-waterfall-hike-guide)

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Willow Springs Campsite

Highlight • Rest Area

A lovely campsite tucked away in Afan Forest. They have their own waterfall, plunge pool and wood fired sauna. A great place to stay to explore the forest and surrounding valleys.

Tip by

Save

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

Pwll Berw Falls

Highlight • Natural Monument

Loose, steep trail down to the pools but well worth the effort. Good footwear is a must if you want to climb down into the gorge. Silica mine needs a decent torch, phone light will not cut through the dark when you get further in!

Tip by

Save

Cwm Clydach Countryside Park is an oasis of calm for wildlife with stunning views that has been created from the blackened scar of a coal mine.

Walking alongside the lakes offers the chance to spot Kingfishers, herons, butterflies, newts and more.

The two lakes are referred to as the “top lake” and “bottom lake” and there are also waterfalls.

For refreshments, there is an on-site cafe.

Tip by

Save

Waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

A few steps off the main path, leads to a downward, wooden stepped, clamber (with care as steps are often slippery) to a beautiful hidden gem ...

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more waterfalls around Treorchy.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Treorchy

Road Cycling Routes around Treorchy

Gravel biking around Treorchy

Running Trails around Treorchy

MTB Trails around Treorchy

Cycling around Treorchy

Hiking around Treorchy

Tips from the Community

Bumble-Bee
December 30, 2024, Pen-Pych Waterfall

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

Wonderful campsite secluded in the Afan Valley. Great, flat camping field, excellent facilities including a communal seating area, wood fired sauna & plunge pool. It’s also well situated to access hiking & bikng trails.

2

0

The first place in the UK where I"ve been and didn't hear cars, airplains. Just the forest, sound of wind and rain. If you want to complete disconect yourself from a daily life, this is the right place.

2

0

Such a special campsite! They are super hospitable and it’s the perfect place to explore the Afan trails 🗺️

3

0

A lovely campsite tucked away in Afan Forest. They have their own waterfall, plunge pool and wood fired sauna. A great place to stay to explore the forest and surrounding valleys.

3

0

Beautiful waterfall with free parking easy trail up not to hard

1

1

Zoe Evans
February 27, 2024, Pwll Berw Waterfall

The Gunpowder Works at Pontneddfechan is a historic site located in the village of Pontneddfechan, in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales.

0

0

Moderate trail with high elevation and amazing wild swimming pools & beautiful views along the way . Enjoy 😀

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some notable waterfalls to visit around Treorchy?

Beyond the most popular, you can explore the dramatic Pen-Pych Waterfall, known for its Icelandic-like cascades. Another option is Pwll Berw Falls, which offers wild swimming opportunities after a steep descent. For a more relaxed experience with amenities, Cwm Clydach Countryside Park features waterfalls alongside lakes and an on-site cafe.

Are there family-friendly waterfall walks near Treorchy?

Yes, Cwm Clydach Countryside Park is considered family-friendly, offering easy walks alongside lakes and waterfalls, with the added convenience of an on-site cafe. While the hike to Pen-Pych Waterfall requires a moderate level of fitness, it's a popular choice for families seeking a more adventurous outing.

What is the best time to visit the waterfalls in the Rhondda Fawr Valley?

The waterfalls, particularly Pen-Pych Waterfall, are most impressive after rainfall when the water flow is at its fullest. Spring and autumn often provide lush scenery and good water levels, while summer offers warmer weather for hiking. Always check local conditions before your visit.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these waterfalls?

The waterfalls around Treorchy are set within the scenic Rhondda Fawr Valley. At Pen-Pych Waterfall, you'll find a series of cascades tumbling over a sheer sedimentary rock face, surrounded by amphitheater-like cliffs and lush greenery. Pwll Berw Falls features a gorge with wild swimming pools. Cwm Clydach Countryside Park offers lakes, forests, and an oasis for wildlife.

Are there any hidden or less-known waterfalls worth exploring?

Yes, there is a less-known waterfall that can be found a few steps off the main path. It involves a downward, wooden-stepped clamber, which can be slippery, but leads to a beautiful hidden gem.

What are the parking options for visiting waterfalls near Treorchy?

For Pen-Pych Waterfall, free parking is available at Pen Pych Forest Car Park, which is a convenient starting point for the hike. Parking information for other specific waterfalls may vary, so it's advisable to check in advance.

Can I go wild swimming at any of the waterfalls?

Yes, Pwll Berw Falls is known for its wild swimming pools. Reaching them involves a loose, steep trail down into the gorge, so good footwear is essential. Additionally, Willow Springs Campsite, located in Afan Forest, features its own waterfall and plunge pool.

Are the waterfall trails dog-friendly?

Many trails in the Rhondda Fawr Valley are suitable for dogs, including the area around Pen-Pych Waterfall and Cwm Clydach Countryside Park. However, always keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or wildlife, and be mindful of other visitors and trail conditions.

What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?

The area around Treorchy offers various outdoor activities. You can explore running trails, such as the 'Gravel Road Junction in Forest loop from Twyn Crug-yr-Avan' which is an easy route, or more challenging ones like the 'Farm Shop Café – Treorchy High Street loop from Treherbert'. Mountain biking and gravel biking are also popular, with routes like the 'View of Treherbert Basin – Gravel Road Junction in Forest loop from Treorchy'. For more details, you can check the Running Trails around Treorchy, MTB Trails around Treorchy, and Gravel biking around Treorchy guides.

Are there cafes or accommodation options near the waterfalls?

Yes, Cwm Clydach Countryside Park has an on-site cafe for refreshments. For accommodation, Willow Springs Campsite in Afan Forest offers a unique stay with its own waterfall and plunge pool, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding valleys.

What should I wear when visiting the waterfalls?

Good footwear is essential, especially for trails like the one leading to Pwll Berw Falls, which involves a loose, steep descent. Trails can be narrow, uneven, and very steep in places, and rocks can be slippery, particularly after rain. Dress in layers suitable for hiking and bring waterproofs, as the weather in South Wales can change quickly.

Most popular routes around Treorchy

Road Cycling Routes around Treorchy

Most popular attractions around Treorchy

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Treorchy:

HirwaunRhigosLlwydcoedTreherbertAberdare WestPen-Y-WaunMaerdyPentreAberdare EastYstradAberaman NorthAberaman SouthYnysybwl And Coed-Y-CwmLlwyn-Y-PiaCwm ClydachTonypandy

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Pentre

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy