5 Scenic Spots Worth Pulling on Your Boots For

There’s something about waterfalls that just hits the pause button on the day. Maybe it’s the sound of rushing water, or the way the light bounces off the rocks, but it always feels a bit like nature’s version of a deep breath. Mid Wales has plenty of them, many are tucked away on quiet walking trails where you are able to get away from the crowds.

Whether you’re after a short woodland wander or a proper leg-stretcher with a view, here are five lovely waterfall walks not far from the Coety Bach. One of them’s a bit of a drive, but worth it if you fancy a day out.

Just don’t forget your boots and maybe your swimmers for a dip.

1. Water-break-its-neck
Near New Radnor | Free | Dog-friendly

Hard to beat the name, isn’t it? Luckily the walk lives up to it. This one’s tucked away in the Warren Woods near New Radnor, and it’s a short, gentle path along the river to a spendid waterfall.

It’s a good one if you don’t fancy a big hike but still want a bit of wow. Shady on hot days, quiet even in summer, and you’ll often have it all to yourself apart from the birds. There’s a plenty of wild picnic spots too if you fancy a rest and a bite to eat before heading back.

2. Nant y Gro & Elan Valley Trails
Near Rhayader | Free | Dogs welcome

*One of the Elan Valley Dams, Caban Coch, after the rain.*

You may have heard of the Elan Valley for its dams and beautiful views, but it’s also full of smaller trails that wind through woods and past little waterfalls. The Nant y Gro loop is a gentle one that starts near Caban Coch Dam and takes you through peaceful woodland. There’s a lovely cascade tucked in the trees and usually a few red kites circling overhead.

It’s easy to make the walk longer or shorter, depending on your mood. And if you time it right, the light over the reservoirs can be stunning in the early evening.

3. Cwm Clydach Nature Reserve
Near Rhayader | Free | Dogs on leads

This one’s a bit more off the radar. Cwm Clydach is a quiet spot just outside Rhayader, managed by the local Wildlife Trust. There’s a circular trail through proper old woodland with a small waterfall halfway round. Not the biggest on the list, but it’s peaceful and full of birdsong.

A good choice if you want a walk without bumping into many people. You’ll hear water, trees creaking, and not much else.

4. Gilfach Nature Reserve
Just off the A470 near Rhayader | Free | Dogs on leads

Gilfach’s a firm favourite if you like nature as much as you like a good walk. The reserve follows the River Marteg and if you pick the right trail, you’ll end up by a lovely little waterfall. In autumn, you might even see salmon leaping up it if you’re lucky.

There’s a car park, a few marked trails, and often redstarts flitting about in the trees. You could spend ten minutes here or a whole morning, depending how the mood takes you.

5. Devil’s Bridge Falls
Near Aberystwyth | Entry fee | Dogs allowed on leads | Around 1 hour 10 mins from Coety Bach

This one's a bit of a drive, but if you’re up for it, Devil’s Bridge is properly impressive. The falls drop right down into a steep gorge, and there’s a circular walk with lots of steps and brilliant views. It’s not a long route, but it’s steep in places, so worth wearing proper shoes and taking your time.

It’s got a wild, dramatic feel and a bit of local legend thrown in for good measure. You can make a day of it with a trip to Aberystwyth or hop on the Vale of Rheidol Railway while you’re there.

A few handy things to know:

All the walks apart from Devil’s Bridge are within 40 minutes of Coety Bach
Most are dog-friendly, but a few ask for leads
Spring and autumn are perfect times for a waterfall walk
Nearby food spots: The Lamb and Flag in Rhayader, The Thomas Shop café in Penybont, or a pint at the Severn Arms

Back at the cabin...
After a day full of fresh air and waterfall hunting, there’s nothing better than a soak under the stars or curling up with something warm. Coety Bach makes a cosy little base for this kind of exploring quiet, calm, and not too far from it all.

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