Ystradfellte

Infobox UK place
latitude = 51.80894
longitude = -3.55487
country = Wales
official_name = Ystradfellte
welsh_name = Ystradfellte
unitary_wales = Powys
lieutenancy_wales = Powys
constituency_westminster = Brecon & Radnorshire
post_town =
postcode_area =
postcode_district =
dial_code =
os_grid_reference = SN929134
population =

Ystradfellte ( _cy. valley floor of the Mellte, the Mellte being a nearby river) is a small village in Powys, Wales, in the Fforest Fawr area of the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Because of the geography and topography of the area the village of Ystradfellte is not visible from the nearest main road, the A4059 Hirwaun to A470 stretch.

Geography

Ystradfellte lies in Powys, Wales, on the Afon Mellte. The village is a popular centre for tourists, many of whom come for the hillwalking or visit the waterfalls and caves of the river. Ystradfellte is also home to a pub, "The New Inn" and Croydon Caving club.

Caves

The area around Ystradfellte is renowned for its caves and karst scenery, making caving a popular activity. Some of the more famous caves near the village include:
* Porth yr Ogof - the biggest cave entrance in Wales, through which the river Mellte flows
* Little Neath River Cave
* Ogof Ffynnon Ddu - the third-longest cave in the United Kingdom

Waterfalls

A popular attraction near the village is the Waterfalls Walk, a generally easy walk along the Afon Mellte. The route passes two main falls on the river, "Sgd Clun-gwyn" and "Sgd Isaf Clun-gwyn". The climax of the walk is at "Sgd yr Eira" on the Afon Hepste where the footpath passes behind the waterfall (currently closed due to rockfalls immediately above the path).

History

Ystradfellte is chiefly known in Welsh history for being the spot where the Welsh nobleman and rebel leader Llywelyn Bren surrendered at the conclusion of his revolt of 1316. Llywelyn, who gave himself up on the condition that his men be spared, was put to death in 1318 at Cardiff.

External links

* [http://www.naturalhighs.net/waterfalls/falls00/ystradfellte.htm Illustrated guide to the waterfalls]
* [http://davidgruar.fotopic.net/c426833.html series of local photographs]
* [http://www.uwshiking.org.uk/gallery/ystradfellte Photos from Swansea University Hiking Clubs Version of the Waterfalls Walk]
* [http://www.geograph.org.uk/search.php?i=2732095 www.geograph.co.uk ; photos of Ystradfellte and surrounding area]