Green path through woodland above Ceunant Llennyrch gorge, Gwynedd

Where to go · Gwynedd

Forest bathing at Ceunant Llennyrch National Nature Reserve

A deep, narrow gorge of the Afon Prysor near Maentwrog, lined with dripping oak rainforest and the Rhaeadr Ddu waterfall.

Ceunant Llennyrch is a National Nature Reserve in Eryri National Park, in the hills above Maentwrog. The Afon Prysor cascades through a gorge whose cliffs rise to around 80 feet and close to within 30 feet of each other in places. The oak woodland is a remnant of the Celtic rainforest, kept humid by mild, wet weather and constant spray, and it is extraordinarily rich: about 230 mosses and liverworts and almost 250 lichens.

The Rhaeadr Ddu Waterfall Walk is only about a mile, but it takes an hour because the path is steep, with uneven steps and ground. It leads to the black waterfall, and the moss-covered rocks and trees along the way are the reason to go slowly. The small car park is not run by NRW, has an honesty box and fills up, as outdoor groups use the gorge, so arrive early.

Practical

Managed by
Natural Resources Wales
Parking
Small car park with honesty box (not run by NRW); fills quickly
Terrain
Steep path with uneven steps and surfaces
Nearest station
Penrhyndeudraeth
Facilities
No toilets listed
Opening and entry
Open access, free

Last updated 4 November 2026. Paths, parking and access can change, so check before you visit. Spotted something out of date? Please let us know.

Guides who run sessions here

No guides listed at Ceunant Llennyrch National Nature Reserve yet

Search for a guide near you. If you guide here, list your practice for free and add Ceunant Llennyrch National Nature Reserve to your venues.