Waterfalls
‘I cannot call to mind a single valley that in the same extent of country comprises so much beautiful and picturesque scenery and so many interesting and special features as the Vale of Neath’ Alfred Russel Wallace
The 19th century naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace spent years exploring the Amazon rainforest and Malay Archipelago. And yet in his memoirs, he wrote about the Vale of Neath.
The ‘special features’ he mentions are a series of dramatic waterfalls that tumble through the steep-sided, tree-lined gorges of the Rivers Mellte, Hepste, Pyrddin and Nedd-Fechan and eventually, into the River Neath.
Aberdulais Waterfall in the Dulais Valley is the most accessible, thanks to the National Trust-run centre there that showcases both the site’s natural beauty and industrial heritage. A few miles up the Vale of Neath, the impressive 80ft-high waterfall at Melincwrt lies at the end of a short woodland path.
Head further north and you’ll discover ‘Waterfall Country’, a triangular area formed by the villages of Pontneddfechan, Ystradfellte and Hirwaun. Natural forces have combined here to create a highly concentrated area of waterfalls, gorges and caves.
Entering the water poses a serious risk of life-changing injury or death due to cold, deep, fast-flowing conditions and hidden hazards. Do not swim, jump into pools, or wade into rivers. Do not enter the water unless taking part in activities if properly trained or with a licensed operator. Take care to avoid slips and falls, wear suitable footwear, and remain on designated paths.
