waterfalls

The area has been called ‘Wales at its absolute best’

They had to wait until 1960 for electricity and when it came they didn’t really care for it. When TV crews headed to the tiny Welsh village that was the last in Wales to be connected to the grid they got a lukewarm response. Some said they “already had a wonderful iron and kettle and a beautiful gas oven” while others said televisions were “not for people like us”.

Sixty-five years on and it’s not the promise of functioning electricity that lures people to the small village of Ystradfellte in southern Powys today. The settlement, home to just a handful of locals, sees its population briefly swell during the holiday season as tourists flock to this magical beauty spot tucked amongst waterfalls and trails with delightful pubs and restaurants close by.

The renowned Four Waterfalls Walk attracts people from across Britain and further afield. This spectacular Waterfall Country lies within the Brecon Beacons National Park and one recent guest called it a “great day out”, boasting a waterfall you can “walk directly behind”.

Throughout the area, traditional inns, centuries-old churched and cosy places to eat and drink are all positioned against this setting of stunning landscape and appeal. These days, TripAdvisor users praise The Four Waterfalls Walk, which spans roughly 8 miles in total but can be adapted to suit your schedule and fitness level, as a “day to remember” with “fabulous scenery”, though some have observed that the beloved location can get “too crowded” during busy periods, reports Wales Online.

One Cardiff man, reviewing his journey to the first waterfall on TripAdvisor, wrote: “One of the best walking experiences, it was a beautiful sunny day and [we] started from CWM Porth car park. There was enough parking space. It was an easy walk but beautiful. We just followed the signs to the first waterfall (took 20 to 25 mins with breaks). Not crowded, peaceful, had a picnic and left only the footprints.”

A TripAdvisor user raved about the “spectacular waterfalls with wild swim spots”, whilst another hailed it as “Wales at its absolute best”. Yet not all visitors feel the same way. One frustrated tourist branded their trip “probably the most overcrowded and disappointing walking experience”.

They went on: “As beautiful as the waterfalls are, I really wouldn’t recommend this walk. We took our 16-month-old in a back carrier and our dog on a lead. Our toddler was great, but with a dog on a lead and lots of other dogs off lead, it became quite stressful. Likewise, the crowds of people doing this walk made it overwhelming and not peaceful in the slightest. There were so many people slipping and sliding, having made poor choices of footwear.”

Even with its tourist appeal, Ystradfellte has kept hold of its village character. Locals remain proud of their Welsh community and the picturesque countryside that surrounds it. On December 1, 1960, Ystradfellte became the final village in Wales to receive mains electricity. Back then, locals weren’t particularly thrilled about the modern technology – with the parish vicar describing residents’ response as “lukewarm, it was not 100%”.

Ystradfellte also marks the location where rebellious Welsh nobleman Llywelyn Bren surrendered following his 1316 uprising. The legendary figure handed himself over on the understanding that his followers would be spared. Two years later, at Cardiff Castle, he was reportedly hung, drawn and quartered.

Today, the quartet of waterfalls encircling the village – Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira – have emerged as a beloved destination for ramblers. The region’s traditional pubs serve both residents and visitors year-round.

Amongst the historic watering holes in the vicinity is The Red Lion Inn, tucked away in the nearby village of Penderyn, boasts excellent online ratings. One satisfied patron wrote in a Google review of The Red Lion Inn: “Recommended by locals because it is somewhat secluded on a hill in a picturesque location next to an old church with a cemetery. The Red Lion, which its name and exterior would suggest is a pub, turns out to be a fancy restaurant with creative cuisine that could easily earn a Michelin star and even offers vegetarian options. The cosy atmosphere and extremely attentive staff justify the slightly higher prices, highly recommended.”

Also not far lies the village of Pontneddfechan, which has remained a picturesque haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature admirers, home to the Old White Horse Inn and the Angel Inn. It serves as an alternative launch point for the waterfall rambles. The New Inn, situated at Ystradfellte village’s centre, shut down more than a year ago and remains on the market.

The Stay in Wales website characterised Ystradfellte in this way: “This small village, just in the county of Powys, is at the southern foot of the Fforest Fawr area of the Brecon Beacons. The name (Ystradfellte), translated from Welsh, means ‘floor of the valley of the Mellte’, the Mellte being one of the rivers which have their sources in the hills above the village. It’s a small village, but as this is an area of sparse population it would in the recent past have been quite an important local centre.”

A charming town that’s perfect for a weekend break, with independent shops, great places to eat and drink, and stunning hikes on its doorstep

As the festive season approaches, you might be meticulously planning your shopping trips. However, your local high street may not fit the bill.

If you fancy a change of scenery this December, a staycation in one Welsh town could offer the perfect blend of exploration and independent boutiques. One destination that might not have sprung to mind is tucked away deep within Rhondda, South Wales.

Treorchy and its bustling high street are ideal for a relaxed Saturday morning stroll, perusing the many independent shops, with the rest of the day free for dining, drinking or, weather permitting, a post-lunch ramble around the nearby hills and waterfalls.

Shops

The true allure of Treorchy lies in its quaint independent shops, where you’ll discover gifts and stocking fillers galore. At the top of Bute Street, there’s the florist, Lili Wen, where – alongside beautiful bouquets and wreaths – you’ll find homely yet chic housewares and trinkets, reports the Express.

For those who relish rummaging through trinkets and gifts, Wonder Stuff is a must-visit. This delightful gift shop has been trading for over two decades, selling adorable stationery, mugs, cards, and food and drink gifts.

Just a few doors down, Green Valley may seem like a simple fruit and veg shop – and it is – but it also stocks sustainable gifts, a variety of hot sauces, Christmas items, treats and, intriguingly, cosy Nordic socks.

Beyond The Lion pub, two unique shopping experiences await. Sparkilicious is a haven of chic gifts and homeware, puzzles, games and toys.

Just across the road, Celtic Dragon Retro presents a different kind of treasure chest, brimming with retro game consoles and games, collectable toys and comics. You’ll discover everything from Pokémon and WWE, Star Wars, Marvel and DC to Disney.

They even offer gaming tables for a breather during your shopping spree! Treorchy’s high street also features an array of clothing shops, baby stores, drapers and jewellery shops worth a visit.

Places to eat and drink

Treorchy is teeming with coffee shops and snack spots, such as Hot Gossip, which is currently offering a large festive drinks menu.

The Cwm Farm Shop serves up a hearty breakfast, Sunday roast, homemade pies and pasties, and daily specials. Their cawl is particularly commendable, and many of the dishes use locally-sourced meat from the nearby farm owned by the same family.

For dinner, the Pencelli Hotel offers a full menu of pub classics, tapas items, curries and flatbreads. Alternatively, you can enjoy a pub meal or pizza at the Cardiff Arms Bistro, with dishes like beef short rib, grilled monkfish and prawn curry.

Christmas attractions

Treorchy is one of many towns in Rhondda Cynon Taf that hosts a Christmas celebration. This year, the parade will commence on Saturday, November 29.

Treorchy Library is set to spread some festive cheer with Santa Saturdays every weekend in December, where kids can meet Father Christmas in his grotto. Plus, late-night shopping will kick off on 3rd December and continue every Wednesday throughout the month.

For those who fancy a bit of an adventure, the upper Rhondda offers stunning views and invigorating hikes. Just take a drive up to the Bwlch hilltop for a breathtaking view over Treorchy and Cwmparc, or head to the top of the valley to the Rhigos viewpoint for a glimpse of Bannau Brycheiniog on a clear day.

One hike that’s a must for walkers is the Blwch mountain circular, a 13km stretch from Treorchy up to the viewpoint. And if you’re visiting from out of town, The Pencelli and Cardiff Arms Bistro both offer cosy accommodation options.

This forest in Wales has become a popular spot for walkers, with a number of trails to follow and beautiful waterfalls to see – and it’s even free to park

Nestled in the heart of Wales, a picturesque walking route awaits that offers breathtaking views without the strenuous hike.

Halfren Forest is creating quite a stir among avid walkers who are flocking to the area to experience its beauty firsthand. Located near Llanidloes and named after the River Severn as Afon Hafren, this spot boasts scenic trails complete with an accessible boardwalk.

The river meanders peacefully through the forest, showcasing beautiful waterfalls and cascades. Freshwater fish can be seen swimming along its clear waterways, and a variety of wildlife, including rare birds, inhabit the surrounding trees.

While Natural Resources Wales manages and maintains the forest, it also serves as a commercial timber production site and event venue. It’s a popular location for motorsport events, hosting numerous 4×4 rallies, and even serving as a stage for the Wales Rally GB.

For those keen on walking, there are several routes to choose from, with two particularly popular trails. The Cascades Walk is one such trail, featuring a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk that winds through the trees and leads to a viewing platform overlooking the waterfalls.

Another option for adventurous explorers is the Source of the Severn Trail, a longer route that takes you through the woodland’s beauty right down to the river’s source. As you follow the stream trickling through the trees, you’ll be treated to stunning views along the way.

One recent visitor to the site raved on TripAdvisor: “Absolutely stunning. Fantastic walks – the perfect day out if you enjoy fresh air and stunning scenery. Would definitely recommend.”

Another enthused: “This whole area has been designed and developed into a variety of walks and walkways with an excellent colour-coded display of each walk with distance, estimated time for each walk and highlights that you will experience on each walk.”

It’s worth noting that this forest walk offers free parking – a rare treat at such destinations. However, it does fill up quickly, so car sharing and avoiding peak times is advised.

One visitor dubbed the forest as “an absolute gem”. They penned: “Hafren Forest provides beautiful trails and scenic views…we took the red Cascades Walk, which takes you along the boardwalk to the cascades. This meets up with the dark blue trail up to Blaen Hafren Falls. This took around an hour and a half.”

However, many reviews highlight issues with the portable toilets in the forest. Many visitors reported them being blocked or unsanitary, with one person claiming they’re “unusable”.

This magical location in the UK is a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears to have been lifted straight out of a storybook — it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

There’s a pocket of Wales where time seems frozen, where the air is heavy with the fragrance of moss and drizzle, and mist dances through the trees like ghostly tendrils.

This magical location is the Rheidol Valley in Ceredigion, a woodland so bewitching and mysterious it appears lifted straight from a storybook.

The Rheidol Valley ranks highly on keen adventurers’ bucket lists, particularly the Vale of Rheidol Railway trip hailed amongst the globe’s premier destinations, with tourism specialists at Ski Vertigo proclaiming: “It’s one of the most magical landscapes in Britain, a hidden gem where waterfalls sparkle, trees whisper, and steam trains drift through the mist like something from a dream.”

The Rheidol Valley extends eastwards from Aberystwyth, following the winding River Rheidol as it travels 19 miles from the Nant-y-Moch Reservoir toward the shoreline. The deeper you explore, the more peaceful it grows, with only the sounds of tumbling water, rustling leaves, and distant bird calls. In some areas, sunlight barely filters through the tree cover, bathing moss-draped rocks in an otherworldly emerald light. The air feels fresh and damp, and every step appears to echo softly, as if the forest is listening in.

Mystical wonder of the Rheidol Valley

The woodlands around Devil’s Bridge overflow with mystery and magic. Towering oak trees curve over the pathways, while slender streams cascade down steep hillsides. Hidden amongst the lush greenery, cascades spring forth unexpectedly, their mist shimmering in the sunlight like a dusting of silver.

If you stop and listen closely, you might hear more than just the rush of water – a faint whisper carried on the wind or the creak of an old bridge swaying in the fog.

The Vale of Rheidol Railway, a charming steam train that seems plucked from a different time, chugs through the valley. It meanders leisurely through the forest, puffing out white clouds that drift among the trees. Locals say its whistle can be heard long before it comes into sight, a soft, ghostly sound echoing across the hills.

This train has been running since the Edwardian era, taking passengers past Aberffrwd, Rheidol Falls, Rhiwfron, and finally ending at Devil’s Bridge, a journey that feels like stepping back in time

Upon arrival at Devil’s Bridge, the story becomes even more magical. Three bridges are stacked one on top of the other, each built over centuries.

According to local lore, the first was built by the Devil himself, as the locals believed the gorge was too deep to cross. A deal was struck – the soul of the first creature to cross would belong to him.

But, as the legend goes, the cunning locals tricked the Devil by sending a dog across first, saving their own souls. However, when the wind howls through the bridge at dusk, some say it sounds like a low growl.

From the summit of the bridge, visitors can marvel at the Devil’s Bridge Falls, where the Mynach Falls cascade almost 300 feet into the gorge beneath. The atmosphere is fresh and damp, with the occasional delicate rainbow spanning across the rushing water. Some guests claim that the mist creates silhouettes that look like human faces, disappearing the moment you glance away.

Across the region, countless hiking trails guide you deeper into the valley’s heart. Some routes are short and easy, while others become difficult and hazardous after wet weather, reports Wales Online. The tracks meander past hidden pools, small waterfalls, and ancient stone walls covered in climbing ivy.

In spring, wildflowers blanket the woodland floor; in autumn, the leaves turn to burnished copper, washing the whole valley in warm tones.

How to get there

Travel experts describe the Rheidol Valley as a place that appears alive with “a forest full of secrets, where every path leads deeper into its story”.

The specialists recommend travelling by steam train as it offers the best method to experience the valley while you glide through mist-covered hills and over ancient viaducts – like following a forgotten adventure.

For the best visit, the professionals suggest taking the train from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, exploring the forest trails, and admiring the waterfalls before heading back.

Early morning or evening hours prove most magical, when the light is soft and the woods feel almost enchanted. Whether you’re drawn to the Rheidol Valley for its scenic walks, cascading waterfalls, or enchanting folklore, this magical place will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. It’s more than just a forest; it’s a living fairy tale.

The Norwegian Fjords have been named the world’s most beautiful cruise destination, boasting picture-perfect landscapes, dramatic rocky coastlines, and charming fishing villages

Cruise fans have crowned the world’s most picturesque cruise destination, and it’s a stone’s throw away for Brits – nestled right here in Europe. The Norwegian Fjords are already a must-see on any travel enthusiast’s list.

In the spring and summer months, passengers can feast their eyes on the breathtaking views of the dramatic rocky landscapes, lush greenery, quaint fishing villages and idyllic waterfront towns that could easily grace a postcard. As winter sets in, the Fjords transform into a magical winter wonderland. Additionally, from October to February, certain regions offer the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.

In fact, the night skies are set to become even more spectacular.

If you’ve always dreamt of ticking the Aurora Borealis off your bucket list, then a cruise in January or February 2026 might be just the ticket. This is because 2026 is predicted to be the best year in a decade for viewing the Northern Lights, thanks to a once-in-a-decade phenomenon known as the solar maximum.

This rare event occurs when the Sun’s heightened magnetic activity releases charged particles that collide with Earth’s atmosphere, resulting in brighter and more frequent auroras, reports the Express.

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Scientists anticipate this spectacle to peak by March 2026, before gradually fading again until the mid-2030s.

The closer you are to the Arctic Circle, the better your chances of seeing the Northern Lights. So, if you’re looking to maximise your chances, consider heading to Tromsø, the Lofoten Islands, Alta, or Svalbard.

But if you’re after more than just chasing the Aurora, the Norwegian Fjords could be the perfect blend of adventure and opportunity to see those mesmerising green skies.

Even without the Northern Lights, there’s plenty to see and do in this stunning region. The breathtaking landscapes have been a source of inspiration for poets, novelists, and artists for generations.

Nestled among awe-inspiring mountains and valleys, these narrow fjords boast everything from stunning waterfalls to incredible glaciers. It’s this abundance of natural beauty that has led the Norwegian Fjords to be named the world’s most beautiful cruise destination by Cruise118.com.

Sharon Hodgkiess, Sales and Customer Experience Director for the brand, said: “Seeing Norway from the deck of a ship is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Each fjord has its own charm, including sights such as mountains, waterfalls, hamlets and mountainside farms.”

If you’re considering a cruise for your next holiday, Sharon has some advice.

She suggests: “Think carefully about what you want from your cruise and select one that aligns with your travel style and interests. If you love nature and scenery, Norway or Alaska are unbeatable. If you’re after sun and relaxation, lean more towards destinations such as the East and West Mediterranean.”

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