Short Hike to Dduallt via the Coed Cymerau waterfalls

This is a short hike (just 2.5 miles) but is reasonably demanding (because of its steep and uneven/boggy initial ascent).  It's well worth the initial cardio-vasular push - because the waterfalls and forestry are charming and the vistas from the upland plateau, once you get there, are hugely rewarding.

Manod Mawr and the Vale of Ffestiniog
The upland circular walk goes through the unusual and picturesque Dduallt halt on the Ffestiniog Railway. There are some interesting railway artefacts, and it has a fascinating history.

Rhoslyn Cottage, (once the Dduallt stationmaster's house)
The ascent and descent route passes through both the Coed Cymerau and Coed Maentwrog nature reserves. There are some rich woodlands and charming waterfalls - serene places to take a breather and let the heart rate slow down!

Footbridge by the waterfall in Coed Cymerau
The route has more than its fair share of ladder stiles (in good condition) and a few low post-and-wire stiles (which need a bit of ingenuity or dog agility) to traverse.

Post-and-wire stile

Solved!
There are a few sheep about in places, but mostly minding their own business and at at a distance from the route.

The landscape is also home to quite a number of buzzards.

It's possible (optionally) to extend the walk by a further half-mile, if walkers wish to visit a couple of additional viewpoints up at Dduallt.




                     

Directions

  • Follow A487 then A496 from Maentwrog towards BlaenauFfestiniog
  • Fork left signposted Blaenau Ffestiniog A496 (and NOT B4391 up to Llan Ffestiniog )
  • Layby is 0.5 miles ahead on the right. Landmarks at layby: Telephone kiosk, Red post box, Stone cottage called "Hen Felin"

Parking

Parking is roadside, in the lay-by beside the A496 at Rhyd-y-Sarn. On a quiet day, there is room for about 8-10 cars there. Landmarks: red postbox; telephone kiosk; Stone cottage Hen Felin, Rhyd-y-sarn, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4HY