Tucked away in a forgotten corner of Snowdonia National Park, a visit to Dolgoch Falls will make you feel like you’ve stumbled out of Wales and into a tropical rainforest.
- Children Welcome
- Multiple Dogs Allowed
- Parking
- Refreshments
- Rural Walks
Good to know
Overview
The lush gorge where you will find this series of waterfalls is a revelation of just how many shades of green there are: the humidity from the spray and the shelter from the wind have created an environment where hundreds of different plant species can thrive. It definitely feels like you could be in South America rather than the UK.
There are two main waterfalls at Dolgoch, connected by an easy-to-navigate path, with dozens of smaller waterfalls demanding your attention along the way. The two larger falls could easily be something out of a fairy tale – they are simply breathtaking. The path is wide, flat and accessible up to the first falls, before becoming steeper and uneven for those wishing to continue on to the rest of the waterfalls.
Pups who love to paddle will adore Dolgoch and there are ample opportunities for dogs to get in the water. Dogs can be let off the lead and will love being able to investigate all the exciting nooks and crannies in the gorge. Dolgoch is also connected to lots of local footpaths, so there are plenty of opportunities to veer away from the main path to explore further afield, for people who want to challenge themselves with a more strenuous walk.
While you’re there, why not treat yourself to a stop at the Dolgoch Tea Rooms by the car park – the chocolate orange cake is the best we’ve ever tasted. Sit outside in the spacious garden where dogs are welcome to relax after your stroll up to the falls. If you prefer to take your own snacks, there are picnic benches by the upper falls.
Dolgoch Falls can get busy at peak times but if you visit out of season or early in the morning, you’ll likely find it to be extremely quiet. It’s also a great choice for a rainy day walk as the trees in the gorge will keep the worst of the rain off you. If you choose to do the shorter walk around the falls you’ll be close enough to retreat to the café or your car if the rain does get too heavy.
For The Dogs
Take a towel for pups who like to paddle.
Opening Hours
Daylight hours are recommended.
Parking
There is a large pay and display carpark just off the B4405.
The Area
For more waterfalls, head to Rhaeadr Ddu, ‘the Black Falls’, or venture to Coed-y- Brenin forest park to combine waterfall spotting with mountain biking. For families, the seaside towns of Tywyn and Barmouth are only a short drive away, where hours can be spent playing on the beaches (specific sections are dog friendly) and enjoying the obligatory seaside fish & chips. Families might also enjoy a trip on the Talyllyn Railway, a half day excursion with stops at Dolgoch and Abergynolwyn, with dogs getting their own ‘dog rover’ ticket (£4).
