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Pistyll Goleu

Waterfall

Terrain:

Activities

Best Time To Visit

Woodland, Mountain, Valley

Walking, Photography

Spring to Autumn

Photo: Alan Bowring via Geograph.org.uk

Pistyll Goleu is a small, pretty waterfall in St Gwynno's Forest near Llanwonno, in the hills of Rhondda Cynon Taf, where the Sychnant stream drops over a face of Pennant sandstone. It is a lesser-known, tucked-away spot reached on a short walk of about ten minutes from the roadside, often taken in ...

9

Parking nearby

3

Food Spots nearby

1

Staycations nearby

Parking:

Food:

Staycations:

1 day, 8 overnight

Old School Tea Room​, Bradleys Coffee​ Shop, Janet's Authentic Northern Chinese Restaurant​

Rustic Rhondda Retreat

Nearest Hidden Gem 1

Nearest Hidden Gem 2

Nearest Hidden Gem 3

FAQ's/Things to Know

Where is Pistyll Goleu?
Rhondda Valley woods conceal this lovely water feature down in South Wales. Hikers find the spot deep inside a large forest area near Pontypridd.

What type of place is Pistyll Goleu?
Pistyll Goleu is a waterfall in the St Gwynno Forest near Pontypridd.

When is the best time to visit Pistyll Goleu?
Autumn rain showers bring the heaviest water volume to make the cascade look its absolute best. Springtime also offers wonderful walking conditions when the surrounding woodland greenery starts to burst into life.

What can you do at Pistyll Goleu?
Walking down the winding forest trails rewards you with a beautiful view of the rushing water breaking over sandstone ledges. Photography enthusiasts can snap wonderful frames of the deep plunge basin from the muddy banks.

How long should I spend at Pistyll Goleu?
An hour or so gives you plenty of time to enjoy the cascade and explore the immediate valley floor. People often stay longer if they decide to combine the stop with a longer hike through the surrounding trees.

Where do I park at Pistyll Goleu?
Spaces for nine vehicles exist nearby, providing one day slot and eight overnight options. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I eat near Pistyll Goleu?
Old School Tea Room, Bradleys Coffee Shop, and Janet's Authentic Northern Chinese Restaurant offer three spots to grab a bite to eat close by. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

Where can I stay near Pistyll Goleu?
Rustic Rhondda Retreat provides a single place to book for an overnight stay in the local area. Full details are available on the UK Hidden Gems app.

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Last Updated:

02 July 2026

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