Millions of people across the globe have fallen in love with this lesser-known part of Wales, which has featured in several Hollywood films for its stunning beauty and dramatic atmosphere.
Have you ever discovered a place that feels like stepping into a magical movie set, hidden away from the world?
Wales is full of places like this, but one, in particular, stands out for its enchanting appeal and has become a favourite location for Hollywood blockbusters.
Nestled between the villages of Llanberis and Dinorwig is a hidden waterfall inside Dinorwic Quarry. Its breathtaking beauty has made it a filming hotspot, appearing in major productions such as Tarzan, Tomb Raider starring Angelina Jolie, and Clash of the Titans. It’s also featured in the Willow series and the second season of HBO’s House of the Dragon.
Although the quarry itself is a well-known historic site to locals and history enthusiasts, the waterfall is so tucked away that you’d likely miss it unless you knew exactly where to look.
To find it, you need to venture deep into the sprawling Dinorwic Quarry. The waterfall is hidden in a place called the ‘California Pit’, accessible only through an old mining tunnel.
It’s not just the stunning views that make this spot special. This hidden gem is steeped in history, as Dinorwic Quarry was once one of the world’s largest slate quarries, employing thousands of workers to extract around 450,000 tonnes of slate annually.
Visitors today can explore the abandoned quarry buildings and pathways, getting a sense of the hard work and bustling activity that once defined the area.
The waterfall itself looks like something you’d expect to find in the wilds of the USA or another far-off destination. Surrounded by towering, rugged walls, the water cascading down sometimes glimmers in a turquoise blue hue, depending on the light.
While it’s spectacular on a sunny day, walkers have said it’s equally worth visiting in the rain, as the weather only adds to its mystical atmosphere.
The slate walls around the waterfall are draped with ferns, creating a striking scene that feels tailor-made for the big screen. The towering walls of the pit make it feel secluded and mysterious, like a secret world hidden within the vastness of Dinorwic Quarry.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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