LIFETIME of WALKS by DEREK HARWOOD

It was a long drive down narrow lanes from A465 to Ystradfellte village. There were no signs for car parks but there were very small and clean toilets in the village. Parking cost £3. Sylvia was reading a book in the car. There were not many cars or people around and no signal on mobiles. There were paths in all directions and the car park attendant said that the yellow footpath arrow was the direction to the Falls. I had no time to visit Porth Yr Ogof cave and headed straight for the falls. Low path passes fenced off dangerous caves through very rough rocks, which reminded me of the top of Malham Cove. They were similar limestone weathered rocks. It was a good path in a few places to '7' though I did not use the stile at '7' but continued along the left bank of the river. I discussed the route with a lady and her two dogs and started a circular route from '8', following the red marked posts directly across the top of the hill to the high point above '12'. There was a good track and steps down to Sgwd Yr Eira on the River Hepste, which was very impressive. There was plenty of water in the river due to recent rains. Due to shortage of time I started to return via the direct route, but met a group of walkers who had just visited the other falls, so I was encouraged to quickly visit them. The paths were rugged between the falls and great care was taken over the wet rocks. There were steep climbs and descents from Lower Falls to Top Falls, then it was relatively flat besides the river back to the car park.

Location Map: - www.streetmap.co.uk
Start & Finish: at Port yr Ogof (South of Ystradfellte).

I regretted missing the opportunity to visit the 57ft wide Porth Yr Ogof cavern. It is recommended to visit this largest cave entrance in Wales before visiting the Falls.