Y Gegin Fach ref: 633005

The range of activities, facilities and experiences on offer within an hour’s drive of the Y Gegin Fach are vast and diverse: From lazing on the award-winning beaches of the Gower Peninsular (the first place in the UK to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) to admiring the residents of the Wales Ape and Monkey Sanctuary, to attending world class sporting events, the list is endless. But being on the edge of the National Park, Y Gegin Fach really does provide the perfect location for those with a passion for the great outdoors. Besides the many way-marked routes and summits to climb, the multitude of stunning waterfalls can’t be missed. A drive of just 8 miles takes you to the spectacular Aberdulais Falls: Set in a deep gorge, they power the largest water-wheel to generate electricity, in Europe. While a drive of 11 miles through the National Park, allows you to learn all about this rich natural resource at the Waterfall Centre in Pontneddfechen. This is the perfect place to begin your adventure as between here and the village of Ystradfellte, the rivers Melte, Hepste and Nedd Fechan, plunge their way down steep, tree-lined gorges, producing one natural spectacle after another. The highlight has to be Sgwd yr Eria (Fall of Snow) where the River Hepste leaps over a 50ft cliff; a narrow path leads below the cliff and allows the adventurous, the magical view from behind the incredible curtain of water! 

Or why not explore some of the many caves found within the National Park; The National Show Caves at Dan-yr Ogof, just 8 miles from Y Gegin Fach allows safe access to a labyrinth of over ten miles. Voted as ‘Britain’s finest natural wonder’ by the British public, the site, with its Iron Age Village, Dinosaur Park, farm and Barney’s Play Barn, offers something for everyone. On route home, the Ynyscedwyn Arms at Ystradgynlais, with its extensive menu and beer garden overlooking the River Tawe is a great venue for lunches or evening meals.

Fishermen are also well catered for along this river. In the village of Ystalyfera itself, there are numerous sites to fish from and permits are easily available. Cyclists will adore the place too; a 20 mile cycle route begins in the village and winds along the canal as far as the picturesque coastal village of Mumbles, near Swansea. While all will relish a day at the nearby Afan Forest Park, with Afan Valley Mountain Bike Hire in Glyncorrwg providing all that’s needed to tackle the 5 world-renown, mountain bike trails or even the sedate, low level cycle track. With fishing, water activities and 14 way-marked walks to enjoy, it’s certainly worth a visit. Or why not enjoy a barge ride on the Neath Tenant Canal. The 12 seater, Thomas Dadford sails between Neath and Tonna in the summer months, with the nearby Nemos Steak Restaurant providing an excellent venue for a bite to eat following the journey.

With cities, award winning beaches, quaint towns and villages, spectacular scenery, a mass of heritage, every conceivable sporting facility and fine gourmet experiences all easily accessible from Y Gegin Fach, whatever the season, it’s easy to create the holiday of your choice. However, to really appreciate all that this richly diverse area has to offer, you’ll need to visit time and time again! 

Things to do nearby