Rhaeadr y Cwm

Rhaeadr y Cwm is a multi-tiered waterfall on the Afon Cynfal near Manod in Gwynedd, North Wales. It is counted among the most distinctive falls in Snowdonia National Park (Eryri), and you can see it without leaving the road.

Where is Rhaeadr y Cwm?

The falls lie about 5 km (3 miles) east of Ffestiniog, beside the B4391, the road running towards Bala. The Cynfal rises in the central uplands of Eryri and drops towards the Ffestiniog valley. Downstream it carves the narrow Ceunant Cynfal gorge, a protected national nature reserve.

How tall are the falls?

The water falls well over 100 metres in total across several steps. Sources disagree on the exact figure: about 120 m (six drops) is the most quoted, while some walking guides say roughly 107 m. Treat any single number as approximate. The falls look best after rain, when the river is full; in a dry summer the flow thins noticeably.

Where is the best place to see them?

The easiest option is a lay-by on the B4391 with a view of the cascade. No walking is needed, but it is a working local road, so park carefully and stay off the carriageway.

If you want a walk, a route from Bont Newydd follows the Cynfal upstream to the falls. It is about 6.8 km (4.2 miles), graded easy, and takes around two hours. It passes the isolated Cwm Farm, with origins in the late 15th century, and ends at the head of a narrow ravine. Many walkers link it with the footpaths from Llan Ffestiniog. Check a map and rights of way first, because some land is private.

What else is nearby?

In Ceunant Cynfal you will find a separate fall, Rhaeadr Cynfal, managed by Natural Resources Wales. It has a restored Victorian viewing platform, and the short trail (about 2 km) is steep. Ancient oak woodland covers the gorge sides. Do not confuse the two: Rhaeadr y Cwm is higher up and visible from the road, while Rhaeadr Cynfal is reached from the gorge itself.

The area also has cultural weight. It appears in Welsh folklore, including the Mabinogion, and David Cox painted the falls in 1836.

Is the waterfall under threat?

For years a proposed hydro-electric scheme has been disputed. Opponents say it would divert as much as 70% of the water away from the falls. Several planning applications were refused or withdrawn, and the Snowdonia Society campaigns to protect the site. Check the latest status before you travel.

When should you go?

Visit a day or two after heavy rain, ideally in autumn, winter or spring. Weather in Eryri changes fast, so bring waterproofs and sturdy footwear, especially for riverside paths.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to hike to see the falls? No. Rhaeadr y Cwm is visible from a lay-by on the B4391, about 5 km east of Ffestiniog.

How high is it? Estimates range from roughly 107 m to about 120 m in total, split over several drops.

Is the walk difficult? The route from Bont Newydd (about 6.8 km) is described as easy and takes roughly two hours.

Is it the same as Rhaeadr Cynfal? No. Rhaeadr Cynfal is a different waterfall in the Ceunant Cynfal gorge, with a Victorian viewing platform.