Tucked away in the Cambrian Mountains, Devil’s Bridge is one of those places that feels like it belongs in an old Welsh story. The village is best known for its unusual three stacked bridges, built one above the other over the deep Mynach gorge. According to local legend, the first bridge was built by the Devil himself, before he was outwitted by a clever old woman and her dog.
Below the bridges, the River Mynach drops through a steep wooded ravine, creating a dramatic waterfall walk with stone steps, viewpoints, and plenty of mossy, atmospheric corners. The waterfalls have drawn visitors for centuries, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about the “Torrent at the Devil’s Bridge.”
It’s a lovely stop if you’re exploring the Aberystwyth area, the Cambrian Mountains, or nearby places like Hafod Estate. You can visit by car, or make more of a day of it by taking the Vale of Rheidol steam railway from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge.
Short, scenic, and full of folklore, Devil’s Bridge is a good reminder that some of the best places in Mid Wales are small, strange, and tucked into the landscape.
It’s worth knowing before you go that although the waterfall walk is short it’s quite steep, with lots of stone steps, uneven sections, and a climb back up through the gorge, so sensible shoes are a good idea, especially if it’s been wet. There is also a shorter Punchbowl and Three Bridges route if you don’t fancy the full walk, or if you’re short on time after arriving by steam train. The steps may not suit everyone, especially very young children, anyone with mobility issues, or those who struggle with steep climbs. There are facilities around the village, including toilets near the visitor/gift shop area, and the Hafod Hotel nearby is a handy place for food or a drink after your walk.
