The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Cwm Gwaun
4.6
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5,758
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11
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Family friendly hiking trails around Cwm Gwaun are set within a distinctive glacial valley in north Pembrokeshire, characterized by its V-shaped formation carved by meltwater. The landscape features extensive ancient woodlands, with species like beech, hazel, and oak, alongside the winding River Gwaun. Hikers can explore a mix of woodland paths, open meadows, and riverside trails, offering diverse natural features for all ages.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Cwm Gwaun
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Allt Pontfaen Walk 2 — Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro / Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, an easy 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 16 minutes to complete. This route offers a pleasant walk through ancient woodlands.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Pontfaen / Tregynon — Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro / Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, a moderate 5.0 miles (8.1 km) path. This trail features varied terrain, including riverside sections and gentle ascents through the valley.
- Local hikers also love the Llanychaer / Trellwyn Wood — Parc Cenedlaethol Arfordir Penfro / Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, an easy 3.1 miles (5.0 km) trail leading through ancient woodlands, often completed in about 1 hour 24 minutes.
- Hiking around Cwm Gwaun is defined by its ancient woodlands, the River Gwaun, and open meadows. The network offers options for both easy strolls and more moderate routes with varied gradients.
- The routes in Cwm Gwaun are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 700 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Cwm Gwaun's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.6
(5)
25
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
17
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is a lovely woodland trail in the Gwaun Valley that you can follow to the scenic Dwfr Ddisgynfa Cwm-du cascades. The Gwaun Valley as a whole is one of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park's hidden gems.
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Dwfr Ddisgynfa Cwm-du roughly translates to 'water descending in the black valley'. This is a scenic spot where the tumbling Afon Cwmau makes its way to meet the Afon Gwaun on its short journey from its source in the Preseli Hills.
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This is a delightful wood in the picturesque Gwaun Valley. Trails explore the steep northern banks of the Afon Gwaun , a great option for an amble in the Fishguard region.
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Tregynon Waterfall is said to be the tallest in Pembrokeshire.
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As a "stone" in itself, it's not necessarily an outstanding highlight, but if the tour takes you past this point anyway and in combination with the legends that surround the stone, it's fine.
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This place almost seems a bit enchanted and has its own charm in every season!
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Bedd Morris is a standing stone beside the old road between the Gwaun Valley and Newport. The name means "Grave of Morris". There are a few local stories and legends as to who Morris might have been to deserve such a marker.
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Llanychaer is a small village near a bridge crossing the Afon Gwaun. There is an abandoned church to the North of the village with a "Holy Well". There are a number of nice footpaths to follow to get to the village, following the river through Court Wood and Tre-llwyn to the East being the pick of the routes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Cwm Gwaun?
There are 11 family-friendly hiking trails around Cwm Gwaun featured in this guide. These routes are specifically chosen for their suitability for families, offering a mix of easy and moderate options.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Cwm Gwaun?
Cwm Gwaun's family-friendly trails often traverse ancient woodlands, riverside paths along the River Gwaun, and open meadows. You'll find a mix of well-trodden paths and some gentle ascents, offering varied scenery without being overly strenuous. The valley's unique glacial formation means you'll encounter picturesque landscapes throughout.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families looking for shorter, easier walks, consider routes like the Allt Pontfaen Walk 1, which is just under 4 km. Another great option is the Allt Pontfaen Walk 2, offering a similar easy experience through the beautiful valley.
Can we find circular routes for family hikes in Cwm Gwaun?
Many of the family-friendly routes in Cwm Gwaun are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Llanychaer / Trellwyn Wood route is a pleasant circular walk that takes you through lovely ancient woodlands.
What interesting natural features or landmarks can we see along the trails?
Cwm Gwaun is rich in natural beauty and history. You might encounter ancient woodlands, the meandering River Gwaun, and even cascades like the Dwfr Ddisgynfa Cwm-du waterfalls. For historical landmarks, consider visiting Foel Drygarn Hillfort and Cairns, an impressive Iron Age hillfort, or enjoy panoramic views from Garn Fawr summit and trig point.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Cwm Gwaun?
Cwm Gwaun is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the ancient woodlands burst with new life, while autumn offers stunning foliage. Summer is also great, though paths can be busier. The valley maintains a secluded, ancient feel regardless of the season.
Are there any trails that offer good viewpoints for families?
Absolutely! While many trails offer glimpses of the valley, for more expansive views, consider routes that lead to higher ground. Although not directly on a family-friendly trail in this guide, nearby viewpoints like Foel Cwmcerwyn summit or Carningli Mountain offer magnificent vistas of the Pembrokeshire landscape, which can be combined with a shorter valley walk.
What kind of wildlife might we spot on a family hike?
Cwm Gwaun's diverse ecosystems make it a great spot for wildlife watching. Keep an eye out for various bird species like tree pipits, redstarts, nuthatches, and pied flycatchers in the woodlands. Near the river, you might be lucky enough to spot dippers, grey wagtails, or even otters. Raptors such as buzzards and sparrowhawks are also common overhead.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Cwm Gwaun?
The family-friendly trails in Cwm Gwaun are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 800 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil ancient woodlands, the gentle riverside paths, and the overall sense of peace and natural beauty that the valley offers for a family outing.
Are there any moderate routes for families looking for a bit more of a challenge?
Yes, if your family is up for a slightly longer walk with a bit more elevation, routes like Pontfaen / Tregynon offer a moderate challenge. This route is around 8 km and provides a good balance of distance and varied terrain, perfect for active families.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for these family walks?
Parking is generally available at various points throughout Cwm Gwaun, often near villages or designated car parks that serve as starting points for walks. Due to the valley's secluded nature, specific parking details can vary by trailhead, so it's always a good idea to check the individual route details on komoot for the most accurate information before you set off.
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