WALK 10: CWM CLYDACH RSPB RESERVE FROM CRAIG CEFN PARC

 

The Cwm Clydach RSPB Reserve occupies a linear site in the deep wooded valley of the Lower Clydach River which is teeming with bird life.

Photo: Cwm Clydach, J. Davies

Map: OS Explorer 165 or Landranger 170

Distance: 2 miles, 3.5 kilometres; allow 1 hour (alternative 3.5 miles, 5.5 kilometres; allow 1½ hours)

Terrain: Easy, along minor road and mainly level footpaths

Start: Craig Cefn Parc Rock & Fountain; map reference 677028

Bus there: Mondays to Saturdays: First Cymru 121 from Swansea and Morriston; frequency every half hour daytime.
Sundays: First Cymru 121 from Swansea and Morriston; frequency every two hours daytime.

Walk: Alight at the stop known as Rock & Fountain at the junction of Rhyddwen Road and Heol Rhyd and follow the latter, minor road on the right, down into the valley (quarter mile, 400 metres) to the bridge crossing the Lower Clydach River. From here, proceed north east along the left bank of the river for the longer walk to Pont Llechart then retrace steps to the bridge. Join the shorter walk on level footpath which leads back to the entrance to the reserve. It is a further quarter mile (0.4km) to the bus stop at the New Inn.

Finish: Graig Felen New Inn; map reference 684025

Facilities: The New Inn serves drinks and bar meals (open lunchtime only on Thursdays to Sundays)

Bus back: Mondays to Saturdays: First Cymru 121 to Morriston and Swansea; frequency every half hour daytime
Sundays: First Cymru 121 to Morriston and Swansea; frequency every two hours daytime

Tickets: First Day Swansea Bay tickets are valid from Swansea; holders of Welsh concessionary bus passes can travel free!