Walking in the Cambrian Mountains - Cwm Merchon

A favourite short waterfall walk from the doorstep here at Cambrian Escapes, Cilycwm to Cwm Merchon Waterfalls. 

Follow the footpath through Glangwenlais to Eithin Tewion and wend your way into the foothills of Mynydd Mallaen . Stunning views in every direction.

After the cottage carry straight on for 20 metres and turn left, before you enter the forestry, and cross the concrete footbridge into the fields at Cwm Merchon. Please make sure you close gates and keep dogs on leads.

Head towards the rising ground and follow the fence line up. The views here are terrific – you can see the old slate mines above the Gwenlais valley to the right and then you see the extraordinary shape of Rhiw Cilgwyn to your left. 

Climb the stile and follow the fenceline to the left. Then you follow the line of the stream onto a trajectory down towards it. You’ll get to an old quarry and shelter on your right, but keep going along the stream. What a glorious beast that mountain stream is. Small waterfall after small waterfall.

Crystal clear water pounding out different shapes in the rock in each tiny waterfall. Beautiful pools shaded by gnarly hawthorns. It is an absolute joy to behold. You’ll get to the large waterfall at the back of the valley, which is the most amazing picnic spot. It takes about 45 minutes to get there. But there’s no rush to get back…