Set against a dramatic landscape, Swallow Falls — found near the quaint village of Betws y Coed — is one of the most visited waterfalls in Wales. And with good reason.
Thought to be the highest continuous waterfall in the country, the 42m cascade tumbles around the boulders and rocks, before tumbling into a natural pool at the bottom.
Overview of Swallow Falls
Swallow Falls, or Rhaeadr Ewynnol in Welsh, has attracted visitors since 1913.
The landmark was actually gifted to the public by Lord Ancaster. This was a saving grace for the village, which had found itself £15,000 in debt after installing electricity and water supplies. To pay back the debt, the local council charged an entrance fee to Swallow Falls to pay back the debt. After they were in the clear, they continued to charge the small entrance fee to see the falls and lower taxes for the village residents. Talk about a waterfall that pays back.
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, Swallow Falls is rumoured to be haunted by the ghost of John Wynn of Gwydir. Apparently, there have been sightings of the 16th-century aristocrat, who by all accounts wasn’t a great person.
Where Is Swallow Falls?
Swallow Falls is found in Conwy, a county borough of Snowdonia National Park. The limestone gorge through which it flows is located in Gwydyr Forest along the River Llugwy.
The main entrance is on the A5 between Betws y Coed and Capel Curig, so you can reach it very easily from Betws y Coed. Simply hop on a bus from the Pont-y-Pair bridge and alight at the Swallow Falls Hotel. No more than 5 minutes, and you’re there.
If you’d rather get your steps in, there are also two walking routes starting from either side of Pont-y-Pair bridge.
Where Can You Park to Access Swallow Falls?
There is a very limited number of free lay-by parking spaces along the road just outside the entrance to Swallow Falls — but, and it’s a big but, if you’re not there at the crack of dawn on a busy summer’s day, you don’t stand a chance.
Alternatively, the Swallow Falls hotel has a pay and display car park. Top tip, buy something from the hotel (a snack, a drink, etc) and they’ll refund your parking charge!
Can You Walk From Swallow Falls to Betws-y-Coed?
Yes, you can walk from Swallow Falls to Betws-y-Coed and vice versa. It’s around 2 miles (~3km) and if you walk from the village, you can also bypass the entrance fee.
There are two walking routes, ending (or starting) at either side of Pont-y-Pair bridge: one tracks the North bank of the river, while one tracks the South. My favourite is the latter, which winds through Gwydyr Forest to a handful of free viewing points on the South bank.
As well as being easier on the wallet, you can also stand right on top of the falls — and that’s an experience you can’t buy.
Pre-warning, these walks can be uneven and steep at places, so dress appropriately. Leave the Crocs or high-heels at home.