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    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Easy
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    127 m
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    3.5 km
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    1-1.5h
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Physical DIFF
    Easy (Circle)
    Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
    Technical DIFF
    Directions to Trailhead

    Swallow Falls

    Panoramic view of Swallow Falls hike in Snowdonia, Wales
    Measurement:

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    Table of contents

    Swallow Falls is a short but sweet hike that walks you along the Llugwy River, to Swallow Falls, and onwards to a spectacular viewpoint. The Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House, which is actually in no way ugly, is a remarkable find, and it makes this short hike that much more distinct.

    Route Description for Swallow Falls

    Cross the Ugly House car park towards the river, take the footpath (signposted) down some steep steps beside the bridge. Follow the waymarked route that tracks the river downstream. Keep to field edge closest to the river before crossing a wooden stile to follow the path along the riverbank.

    This path will lead you to the top of Swallow Falls- here you will have a peak at the falls but there are better views to come! Continue slightly up hill to the left and turn on to an obvious path that drops down to the right to a superb viewing point back towards Swallow Falls. Take time here, it is sensational!

    When you have had your fill of the falls, come back up the steps to the path you dropped off of to reach the viewing point. Rather than retrace your steps turn right to continue along the river following the yellow arrows. The path leads you below cliffs and high above the river gorge. At the junction follow the yellow arrows uphill. This path winds through the forest and leads up to a broader track.

    Upon reaching the track turn left and continue ahead. Ignore several incoming paths and follow the main track. Upon reaching a fork, take the lower left-hand fork and continue ahead. This track eventually meets a small tarmacked lane. Turn left and walk down the steep hill to find yourself at the Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House- do pop in, there is a great bee exhibition upstairs and the gardens are great.

    Want to find more amazing walks in Snowdonia? Check out the Pyg Track to Snowdon, Llyn Ogwen or the Moel Siabod walks.

    Insider Hints for Swallow Falls

    • Allow plenty of time to enjoy the views and sounds of Swallow Falls- there is an excellent seated viewpoint at which to take it all in.
    • Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House is also a highlight. Welsh classics like Bara Brith, also known as Speckled bread, are a definite must to try.
    • An out and back route to Swallow Falls is also a quick option if you wish!

    Getting to the Swallow Falls Trailhead

    From Betws-y-Coed follow the A5 east.After 4.0 km the road crosses the river, immediately after you will see the Ugly House.Parking is available on the right-hand side just before the Tearoom. Parking here is for customers so if you are not intending to go into the Tearoom alternative parking can be found further up the A5.

    Route Information

    • When to do:

      Year round

    • Backcountry Campsites:

      No

    • Toilets:

      Ty Hyll Tearoom at the Ugly House

    • Family friendly:

      Yes

    • Route Signage:

      Average

    • Crowd Levels:

      Low

    • Route Type:

      Loop

    Swallow Falls Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

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