It has a glorious autumn landscape with gorgeous walks too
Lee Garrett Content Editor, Kathryn Williams and Chloe Dobinson Digital Production Editor
11:09, 27 Oct 2025
Pontneddfechan is a stunning Welsh village with equally stunning waterfall(Image: Getty Images)
People have been completely taken aback by a charming Welsh village that offers breathtaking countryside walks, snug pubs, and local allure. And the name of this place?
Pontneddfechan. It ticks all the right boxes.
Nestled in the heart of the Neath valley, this neat Welsh jewel is your entry point to one of the most spectacular parts of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) – Waterfall Country, reports the Express.
Situated at the meeting point of the Afon Mellte and Afon Nedd Fechan rivers, the village has long been a picturesque favourite among nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With its striking waterfalls, rugged gorges and a rich industrial history interwoven into the mystical landscape, Pontneddfechan should be high on your South Wales bucket list.
Dinas Rock is a great hiking trail and a must-see(Image: Getty Images)
Pontneddfechan’s Industrial Heritage
Pontneddfechan boasts a rich history, largely due to the Industrial Revolution. In the 1800s, the area underwent a transformation with the construction of ironworks, a thriving coal trade, and the establishment of the Swansea Canal.
During the 19th century, the region was part of the booming ironworks and coal mining industries that powered much of Wales’ economy during the Industrial Revolution.
Once the beating heart of the iron industry, Pontneddfechan Ironworks played a pivotal role in the economic development of the region. The village expanded around this industry, with many of its buildings dating back to this industrious period, providing a window into the lives of the hardworking inhabitants.
Waterfall Walks
Pontneddfechan serves as the gateway to Waterfall Country, a term coined for the upper reaches of the Vale of Neath in South Wales. This tourist hotspot at the valley’s head is renowned for its high concentration of publicly accessible waterfalls, attracting droves of waterfall enthusiasts.
A brief stroll from the village leads you to the first of many waterfalls, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, whose dramatic plunge makes it one of the area’s most striking. The walking trails range in difficulty, but all promise breathtaking views.
The most well-known trail, a four-mile loop, guides visitors to several falls, each more mesmerising than the last, including Sgwd y Pannwr and the magnificent Sgwd yr Eira.
Download the All Trails app to discover the best walks in this area, and adhere to the AdventureSmart guidance for safety.
Sgwd yr Eira
For those who appreciate waterfalls with a touch of drama and a generous spray, Sgwd yr Eira is a must-visit. Nestled in a verdant corner of the Bannau Brycheiniog, this thundering spectacle forms part of the famous Four Waterfalls Walk and is certainly worth the journey.
“Sgwd yr Eira” translates to “Waterfall of Snow,” which possesses a poetic quality, yet its most remarkable characteristic is the opportunity to walk behind it. The trail leads directly behind the thundering curtain of water, allowing adventurers to dash through the spray and feel as though they’ve stepped onto the set of a fantasy blockbuster.
Reaching there is an adventure in its own right. The route takes you through dense woodland, over winding streams, and down a rather demanding slope.
It’s a thoroughly muddy trek, but the reward at the end makes every step worthwhile. The entire location is extraordinarily stunning, with beams of sunlight penetrating through the tree cover, moss-covered rocks, and the roar of water cascading over stones.
A word of caution: the rocks around the falls can be as slippery as a politician in a press conference, so sturdy footwear is vital. And when the river’s flowing high, the path behind the waterfall is prohibited – Mother Nature’s magnificent, but she doesn’t take prisoners.
You can start your adventure from Cwm Porth car park or set off from Dinas Rock if you fancy a more demanding challenge, but do check conditions before setting out. Whatever route you select, make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks, and wear appropriate clothing for the unpredictable Welsh weather.
Other waterfalls Head southwest from Pontneddfechan, and you’ll stumble upon the magnificent Melincourt Falls, accessible via a forest walk that gradually ascends to the 80ft high waterfall, famously depicted by Turner in 1794. Venture a bit further into the valley, and you’ll encounter Aberdulias Falls on the River Dulais, with additional hidden waterfalls near Neath Abbey Ironworks on the Lower Clydach River.
Dinas Rock
The much-admired Dinas Rock is a true gem for walkers and climbers alike. This enormous limestone slab dramatically protrudes from the forest beneath, offering stunning photo opportunities.
A convenient car park and picnic area at the base serve as the ideal spot to gather snacks before setting off on your adventure. From here, trails wind through the woodland and onto the rock face.
The climb isn’t overly taxing; you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views over the neighbouring valleys. It’s certainly one for your Instagram feed.
Climbers of all abilities are well catered for; whether you’re a beginner or have forearms like Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, there’s a broad range of routes to tackle. There’s also plenty of bouldering if you prefer staying closer to the ground but still want to flaunt your climbing skills.
But it’s not just about the outdoor activities – Dinas Rock showcases some remarkable geological features. Think ancient rock formations and fossils dating back millions of years.
Pub stops
The village has some stunning landscapes – and pubs(Image: John Myers)
Pontneddfechan and its neighbouring areas offer a good range of pubs where you can enjoy a pint with a view, including The Old White Horse Inn and The Angel Inn. The former is renowned for its highly sought-after Sunday roast, so it’s recommended to reserve a table in advance.
Sgwyd Gwladys, a coffee shop and restaurant with rooms, is ideal for a quick lunch of loaded fries and burgers, or a cosy coffee and cake.
Just a brief 10-minute drive away, you’ll discover Tafarn Llew Coch (The Red Lion), a beautifully maintained 12th-century inn situated in Penderyn. This Welsh longhouse, which once functioned as a cattle house, has been skilfully renovated and now features a stone dining room decorated with wooden beams and a crackling fireplace.
For lunch, indulge in small plates of Thai pork belly, spiced fried chicken and Trealy Farm Welsh Beef carpaccio.
