Sgwd-yr-Eira is a stunning waterfall located in the Brecon Beacons National Park in southern Wales, UK. Its name comes from Welsh and means “Snow Waterfall,” a fitting description as the water cascades down like a white veil. What makes Sgwd-yr-Eira different from many other waterfalls is that visitors can actually walk behind and through it. Standing behind the curtain of water, feeling its force rushing down in front of you, is an unforgettable experience. To reach the waterfall, visitors follow a scenic hiking route known as the Four Waterfalls Walk, passing several other impressive waterfalls along the way. Sgwd-yr-Eira is the final waterfall on the trail and is definitely worth the effort. One of its most striking features is the way the water flows over natural rock cliffs before dropping into the pool below. The water is clear and, on sunny days, sparkles like diamonds in the light.
Sgwd Yr Eira
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Sgwd Yr Eira
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Sgwd Yr Eira famous?
Sgwd Yr Eira is famous for its unique feature that allows walkers to walk directly behind the curtain of falling water without getting wet, creating a spectacular photo opportunity. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the 'Waterfall Country' area of Brecon Beacons and part of the renowned Four Waterfalls Walk.
Can you swim at Sgwd Yr Eira?
No — swimming is not typically practiced at Sgwd Yr Eira due to cold water, strong currents, and slippery conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Sgwd Yr Eira?
Dogs allowed on-leash on the trails in Brecon Beacons National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Sgwd Yr Eira free? Do you need a permit?
No entry fee to Brecon Beacons National Park or the waterfall itself, but car parking fees apply (approximately £5–6 per day at Cwm Porth). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Sgwd Yr Eira?
Parking is available at the Cwm Porth car park (paid parking, £5–6 for the day as of recent reports). The walk to Sgwd Yr Eira is approximately 2.5 km / 1.5 miles from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Sgwd Yr Eira?
About 5 km / 3.1 miles return from Cwm Porth car park via the Four Waterfalls Walk route. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Sgwd Yr Eira hike difficulty
Moderate — includes woodland trails, some steep descents, uneven terrain, tree roots, and potentially slippery rocks near the waterfall. Proper footwear essential. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Sgwd Yr Eira?
Autumn and winter (October–February) for highest water flow after rainfall, or spring (March–May) for moderate flow and greener scenery. Summer can see reduced flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Sgwd Yr Eira
From Cwm Porth car park, follow the Four Waterfalls Walk trail markers downstream along the Afon Hepste. The path descends through woodland and crosses streams on footbridges. Sgwd Yr Eira is reached after passing through a section of the trail that goes behind the waterfall itself, allowing you to walk through the curtain of falling water. The path can be steep, muddy, and slippery, especially in wet conditions.
Sgwd Yr Eira official website
Attractions near Sgwd Yr Eira
- •Sgwd Clun-Gwyn — another impressive waterfall on the Four Waterfalls Walk circuit
- •Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn — smaller waterfall also on the Four Waterfalls Walk route
- •Sgwd y Pannwr — the fourth waterfall completing the popular circular walking trail
- •Penderyn Distillery — Welsh whisky distillery and visitor center in nearby Penderyn village
- •Ystradfellte — small village serving as a base for exploring Waterfall Country trails
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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More to explore nearby
Swallow Falls
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North Wales's most popular waterfall near Betws-y-Coed.
Henrhyd Falls
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South Wales's tallest waterfall (Batcave entrance in Dark Knight Rises).
Pistyll Rhaeadr
Powys, Wales
Wales's tallest single-drop waterfall.
Sgwd Clun-Gwyn
Pontneddfechan, Wales
Largest of the Four Waterfalls walk.