Including Glyn Diffwys.
From Cardiff, either take the A470 to Dolgellau then the A494 through Bala to Druid, or take the A470 to Builth Wells then the A483 to Oswestry then the A5 to Druid. From Druid, take the A5 towards Betws-y-Coed. After passing through Dinmael, the road climbs through a deep cutting. Just after this, take a small road to the left, signposted to Cwm Main. When the road suddenly narrows to cross a bridge to the right, park ahead at the start of a gated road - the old A5 route. SH 9916 4437.
Follow the old A5. Immediately beyond the gate, the Glyn Diffwys waterfall lies down to the right. Experienced river walkers who wish to get a better view may do so by crossing the wall near the gate, then carefully descending the slope below to reach the waterfall. Avoid trying to get below the plunge pool for the cascades below - it is protected by cliffs.
The old A5 road soon turns right, and in winter it may be possible to see the waterfalls through the trees from that bend. Beyond here, a memorial and viewpoints are passed on the right, alluding to the area's former fame as a beauty spot. Just past that, the road reaches the side of the new A5. Follow the pavement on the right to reach a crossing point. Cross the A5 to another path, which turns right along the continuing old A5. Follow it down to the village of Dinmael. Briefly join the A5 and walk along the pavement, then take the lane on the left that heads up through the village. After 300 metres, at a junction, take the very poorly maintained lane on the left. Follow it for 2 km past some good views over the surrounding mountains, until it turns left and rejoins the A5. Follow the pavement on the left to a crossing point, cross the A5 and head down the side road on the other side. Follow this back to the start of the walk.
| Waterfall | Grid reference | GPS coordinates | Image |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glyn Diffwys | SH 99177 44337 | 52.986851°N, 3.503341°W | |
Whilst every care has been taken in the compilation of this description, neither the author nor his fellow walkers can accept responsibility for loss or injury arising from any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in this description. This description is intended as a guide only, and you should select a route to suit your own abilities, at your own discretion. Ability requirements are a guide only. Route maps are approximated. You follow this description at your own risk.