Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls showing a cascade and rainforest
Swallow Falls
Swallow Falls which includes a river or creek and forest scenes
Swallow Falls featuring rainforest, rapids and a river or creek
Swallow Falls showing rapids and a river or creek


Swallow Falls is situated in Swansea in North Wales. It is the highest continuous waterfall in Wales, made up of a multiple waterfall system on the River Llugwy, within the gorgeous Gwydir Forest.

The River Llugwy rises among the peaks of Carnedd Llewellyn, which is the dominant peak of the Carneddau Mountain Range, only slightly lower than the summit of Mount Snowdon. The river runs eastward towards Capel Curig and Betws-y-Coed before it reaches the impressive Swallow Falls.

The waterfall can be reached easily by foot from the car park on the A5. There are ample viewpoints situated along the south bank of the Llugwy and safety rails for those travelling with children. It is an extremely popular point of interest for tourists and is one of the most frequently visited spots in the area.

For a more dramatic experience, approach the falls by foot along the northern bank. This path is spectacular and dramatic, offering unparalleled views of the cascading water, which slices ferociously through the luscious forest.

The Gwydir Forest also offers fantastic walking opportunities close to Swallow Falls. There are many lakes, mountains and rivers to explore, perfect for a day-trip hike up to the falls. Despite being a forest, much of the space is open and offers excellent views over the valleys of the rivers Llugwy, Lledr and Machno.

Impressive and hauntingly beautiful, Swallow Falls is a fantastic place for all ages to visit.

Plan a trip to see Swallow Falls

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The Georgian Town House Hotel
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The Swallow Falls Inn - The Inn Collection Group

The Swallow Falls Inn - The Inn Collection Group

3 out of 5
Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
The Swallow Falls Inn - The Inn Collection Group
Waterloo Hotel Lodge

Waterloo Hotel Lodge

3 out of 5
Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Waterloo Hotel Lodge
Tyn-y-Coed Hotel

Tyn-y-Coed Hotel

3 out of 5
Capel Curig, Betws-y-coed, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Tyn-y-Coed Hotel
Base Camp Snowdonia

Base Camp Snowdonia

2 out of 5
Base Camp Snowdonia, Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Base Camp Snowdonia
Oakfield House Bed and Breakfast

Oakfield House Bed and Breakfast

4 out of 5
Pentra Du, Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Oakfield House Bed and Breakfast
Glan Aber Hotel

Glan Aber Hotel

3 out of 5
Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Glan Aber Hotel
Summer Hill Guest House

Summer Hill Guest House

4 out of 5
COEDCYNHELIER ROAD, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Summer Hill Guest House
Royal Oak Hotel

Royal Oak Hotel

4 out of 5
Holyhead Road, Betws-Y-Coed, Wales
Royal Oak Hotel
Luxury Accommodation in an Old Turbine House in Betws Y Coed | Pwerdy

Luxury Accommodation in an Old Turbine House in Betws Y Coed | Pwerdy

Betws y Coed, Gwynedd
Luxury Accommodation in an Old Turbine House in Betws Y Coed | Pwerdy
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls in Betws-Y-Coed offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including scenic walking and hiking trails that showcase the stunning natural beauty of the area. For those seeking more adventure, consider exploring nearby attractions such as zip-lining, rock climbing, or canoeing, which provide thrilling experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're an avid hiker or looking for something more daring, there's plenty to enjoy in this picturesque Welsh destination.

Shopping

In Swallow Falls, you can visit local shops for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, James Pringle Weavers is 10.6km away, offering a range of crafts and textiles. Denbigh Retail Park, 11.8km away, presents a variety of shops, while Tweedmill Shopping Outlet, 12.4km away, features numerous brands.

Recreation

Enjoy a round at Betws-Y-Coed Golf Club, just 1.2km away, where you can relish the scenic outdoor surroundings. For a more tranquil experience, head to Conwy Water Gardens, 5.6km distant, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Zip World Fforest, a zipline ropes course located 1.2km from Swallow Falls, where adventure meets stunning scenery. At Saw Bench, 1.9km away, enjoy the great outdoors, perfect for relaxation and exploration. Don’t miss the Conwy Valley Maze, 3.1km away, for a fun family day out.

Nightlife

Experience a lively night at the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre for captivating performances and cultural vibes. For family fun, visit the Palace Fun Centre for arcade excitement. Alternatively, enjoy a romantic evening at The Little Theatre, where entertainment flourishes amid a charming atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Swallow Falls

Swallow Falls, located in Betws-Y-Coed, offers a delightful array of attractions for every type of visitor. From the stunning waterfalls and historic castles to engaging visitor centres, there's something for everyone. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, the area promises an unforgettable experience for all types of travellers.

  • Eryri National Park Visitor Centre: Located 1.2km from Swallow Falls, this centre is the perfect starting point for your adventure. It offers a wealth of information on the park’s stunning landscapes and activities, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
  • Yr Wyddfa: Situated 6.2km away, Yr Wyddfa is the highest peak in Wales and a must-visit for those seeking breathtaking scenery and exhilarating hikes. The views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
  • Gwydyr Forest: Just 1.2km from Swallow Falls, Gwydyr Forest offers a tranquil escape into nature. With its extensive trails and rich wildlife, it’s perfect for those looking to explore the great outdoors and enjoy adventurous pursuits.

Best time to go to Swallow Falls

The best time to visit Swallow Falls can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Swallow Falls falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Swallow Falls falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January34.0°F (1.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February34.2°F (1.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
March36.5°F (2.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June50.7°F (10.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July53.1°F (11.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
August52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighSlightly High
September50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyHighAverage
October45.1°F (7.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December36.3°F (2.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Swallow Falls

To save money on your visit to Swallow Falls, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January, February, or November, and aim to book your hotel a month in advance for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare prices and find last-minute deals, especially for stays on Wednesdays, which are often cheaper than Saturdays. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, accommodation, and activities to maximise savings. Don't forget to take advantage of free outdoor attractions and the local walking paths to enjoy the stunning scenery without extra costs.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Swallow Falls are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Swallow Falls is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Swallow Falls is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Swallow Falls is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Swallow Falls with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.