Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Natural Monuments
United Kingdom
Wales
North Wales
Conwy

Ysbyty Ifan

Top 17 Natural Monuments around Ysbyty Ifan

Best natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan include a diverse range of landscapes within the Snowdonia National Park and National Trust estate. The area features dramatic river valleys, expansive moorlands, picturesque woodlands, and impressive waterfalls. Ysbyty Ifan provides access to a rich tapestry of ecological and geological features, making it a notable destination for outdoor exploration.

Best natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan

  • The most popular natural monuments is Swallow Falls, a waterfall comprising a series of cascades on the River…

Last updated: May 19, 2026

Arenig Fawr Summit and Flying Fortress Memorial

Highlight • Viewpoint

Arenig Fawr is one of my favourite mountains in Wales. Grand enough to be impressive and not anywhere close to being as busy as the more famous northern peaks. It …

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Swallow Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Swallow Falls is one of the highest continuous waterfalls in Wales. It comprises a series of beautiful cascades on the River Llugwy, approximately one mile east of Betws y Coed, …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Fairy Glen

Highlight • Gorge

The Fairy Glen is a picturesque, secluded gorge not far from the popular village of Betws-y-Coed. It is named for the mythical sprites that are said to live there and …

Tip by

Save

Conwy Falls

Highlight • Natural Monument

Running through the deep gorge of the Fairy Glen, Conwy Falls is an incredibly scenic waterfall. It cascades through a number of segmented drops totalling (50 feet) 15 m into …

Tip by

Save

Llyn Elsi

Highlight • Lake

This idyllic mountain lake is hidden amongst the pine and deciduous forests of the Gwydyr Forest and lies above Betws-y-Coed. The lake is used as a water reservoir. In the …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Ysbyty Ifan

Hiking around Ysbyty Ifan

MTB Trails around Ysbyty Ifan

Road Cycling Routes around Ysbyty Ifan

Gravel biking around Ysbyty Ifan

Cycling around Ysbyty Ifan

Running Trails around Ysbyty Ifan

Tips from the Community

Keith
December 6, 2025, Fairy Glen Gorge

You should pay the fee to visit. Plenty of signs and information to get here but no mention of a fee. £1 per person, £1 per car, 50p per child.... at this point we stopped reading as we don't carry cash. Woman came from the house to make sure we didn't slip in. Fully understand that it's private land and you have to pay to enjoy it. Just wish we'd known before we set off.

0

0

The memorial is right next to the summit cairn, and is suitably low key for such a location and what it commemorates.

1

0

As the Arenig Fawr is an isolated peak the views in all directions are very good - including to the nearby Rhinogs.

0

0

A fine summit atop an isolated peak so there are wide views in all direction. Also a very fitting memorial.

0

0

Very fitting memorial at the summit of Arenig Fawr.

1

0

Uwe H.
July 7, 2025, Swallow Falls

The view from the front is also very impressive! 👍🏻

Translated by Google

0

0

Uwe H.
July 7, 2025, Swallow Falls

Here the water flows calmly, just before it thunders through the rocks! 😊

Translated by Google

0

0

Uwe H.
July 7, 2025, Swallow Falls

Up close, very impressive! And only a few people on this side.

Translated by Google

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit near Ysbyty Ifan?

Visitors frequently enjoy the dramatic cascades of Swallow Falls, a series of waterfalls on the River Llugwy. Another favorite is Llyn Elsi, a picturesque mountain lake nestled within the Gwydyr Forest, offering scenic views. The enchanting Fairy Glen, with its unique rock formations and small waterfalls, is also highly appreciated by the komoot community.

Are there any family-friendly natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan?

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Swallow Falls offers viewing platforms that are accessible, though the path to the falls can be uneven. Llyn Elsi is also considered family-friendly, providing a lovely setting for a walk around the lake. Always check specific access details for younger children or pushchairs.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see in the Ysbyty Ifan area?

The Ysbyty Ifan area is rich in diverse natural features. You'll find dramatic river valleys like the Upper Conwy, Eidda, and Machno, expansive moorlands such as The Migneint, and picturesque woodlands like Coed y Fron, known for its spring bluebells. Impressive waterfalls, including Swallow Falls and Conwy Falls, are also prominent, alongside serene lakes like Llyn Elsi and Llyn Arenig Fawr.

Are there any natural monuments with historical significance near Ysbyty Ifan?

Yes, Arenig Fawr Summit is a notable natural monument with historical significance. The summit features a poignant memorial commemorating American airmen who perished in a World War II plane crash in 1943. The area around Llyn Arenig Fawr also holds historical context related to the mountain's past.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The region around Ysbyty Ifan offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain ascents like Arenig Fawr. Cycling is also popular, with options for road cycling and mountain biking. For detailed routes and inspiration, you can check out guides like Road Cycling Routes around Ysbyty Ifan, Cycling around Ysbyty Ifan, and MTB Trails around Ysbyty Ifan.

Where can I find impressive waterfalls near Ysbyty Ifan?

For spectacular waterfalls, visit Swallow Falls, a series of continuous cascades on the River Llugwy. Another must-see is Conwy Falls, where the River Conwy plunges 50 feet into a deep pool within a narrow gorge. Pistyll y Pandy, located very close to Ysbyty Ifan, is also impressive, especially during winter months.

What is The Migneint and what makes it special?

The Migneint is an extensive area of moorland and blanket bog near Ysbyty Ifan. It is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) recognized for its unique plant communities and diverse bird life. It offers a wild, open, and remote landscape, ideal for those seeking solitude and an appreciation of untouched natural habitats, with ongoing efforts to restore its ecological balance.

Are there any scenic viewpoints in the Ysbyty Ifan area?

Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. The village's location provides great vantage points for appreciating the grandeur of the Carneddau mountains and the scenic beauty of the Conwy Valley. Arenig Fawr Summit offers panoramic views of every major peak in Snowdonia National Park, making it a highly rewarding destination for keen hikers.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan?

The best time to visit largely depends on your interests. Spring (April-May) is beautiful for seeing woodlands like Coed y Fron carpeted with bluebells and primroses. Summer (June-August) offers warmer weather for hiking and exploring, though popular spots can be busy. Autumn (September-October) brings stunning foliage colors. Winter (November-March) can be dramatic, especially for viewing waterfalls like Pistyll y Pandy, but requires appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter conditions.

Can I spot wildlife at the natural monuments near Ysbyty Ifan?

Yes, the area is rich in wildlife. The Migneint moorland is known for its diverse bird life. The woodlands surrounding Conwy Falls are a designated SSSI and home to polecats and over 30 bird species. Salmon jumping can be observed at Conwy Falls, particularly in August, thanks to the modern salmon ladder.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Ysbyty Ifan?

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty and the sense of immersion in nature. The dramatic landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to serene lakes and expansive moorlands, are often highlighted. Many appreciate the opportunities for hiking and photography, as well as the peaceful, secluded atmosphere found in places like Cwm Eidda and The Migneint. The community has shared over 30 photos and given more than 20 upvotes to these natural monuments.

Are there any hidden gems or less-known natural monuments worth exploring?

Cwm Eidda (Eidda Valley) is often described as a picturesque and tranquil hidden gem, tucked away between the upper Conwy and Machno valleys. It offers a secluded experience with wonderful views of the Dyffryn Conwy and the Carneddau mountains, primarily accessible via public footpaths. Pistyll y Pandy, a waterfall very close to Ysbyty Ifan, is also a less-known spot that can be particularly impressive in winter.

Most popular routes around Ysbyty Ifan

Hiking around Ysbyty Ifan

Most popular attractions around Ysbyty Ifan

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Ysbyty Ifan:

CaerhunCapel CurigDolwyddelanDolgarrogTrefriwLlanfairfechanPenmaenmawrLlanddoged And MaenanHenrydBro MachnoBetws-Y-CoedBro GarmonEglwysbachLlanrwstLlangernywLlansanffraid Glan ConwyLlandudnoMochdrePentrefoelasRhos-On-SeaColwyn BayBetws Yn RhosKinmel Bay And TowynOld ColwynCerrigydrudionLlansannanAbergeleLlanddulas And Rhyd-Y-FoelLlysfaen

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in North Wales

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy