Fairy Falls (Rhaeadr y Tylwyth Teg)

The main fall is the set piece, water sliding and breaking down a tilted rock face with trees closing in on both sides. A wooden bridge gives a view of a cascade, and the main viewpoint has a bench. Continuing through the woods brings smaller cascades, and longer routes climb on toward Llyn Crafnant and Llyn Geirionydd.

The River Crafnant runs through Trefriw, and the footpath is tucked just up Chapel Hill, opposite the hotel of the same name. Park in the village and walk; it is under ten minutes to the falls.

Expect short steep sections, steps and uneven ground, with a narrow stretch of path above the stream and rocks that turn slippery when wet. Boots or grippy shoes make more sense here than smooth soles, and children are worth keeping close on the higher ground. Dogs are welcome on the route.

The fall owes its shape to a glacial hanging valley, where the side stream drops abruptly into the main valley. The Crafnant rises at Llyn Crafnant and gathers water from the Geirionydd upstream, but some of the flow is diverted by pipeline for hydro-electric power at the woollen mills, so in dry spells the fall can look weak or nearly dry. The wooded gorge was known historically as Fairy Glen, and the falls sit on the local village trails.

This is a brief walk rather than a day out, and the reward depends heavily on recent rainfall. There is no facility at the waterfall itself, and the path is not a smooth level stroll.

The village has free parking with around 50 spaces, public toilets near the car park, cafe and food options, and a local hiking information map; these are village facilities rather than part of the waterfall site. Bring waterproofs, sturdy footwear, water and a cloth for spray on lenses.