The Taf Fechan Nature Reserve Circular walk is just one of a series of trails running right through the county borough that encapsulates the area's history complemented by miles and miles of natural beauty. So if you want to take time to stop at one of our amazing adventure attractions, learn about our history, shop, eat, sleep or just take a moment to savour the breath-taking scenery. Merthyr has it all.
Blue Pool
Adjacent to the Taff Trail below the Pontsarn Viaduct close to Morlais Castle is the Taf Fechan Gorge. This, the most scenic section, is protected as part of the Brecon Beacons National Park, Taf Fechan Nature Reserve and is also mostly within the Cwm Taf Fechan Woodlands Site of Special Scientific Interest.
This stunning section takes you on a journey as the river flows through narrow channels of cascading water and whirling eddies into a large pool named Pwll Glas, locally known as the Blue Pool.
The Gorge has paths on both sides of the river forming part of 3.7 mile loop. The area is scattered with signs of its previous industrial past, including remnants of a limestone quarry, corn and fulling mills.
The Taf Fechan river begins it’s journey below the two highest peaks in the Brecon Beacons - Pen y Fan and Corn Du. It meanders the mountains flowing through four picturesque reservoirs until it meets the Taf Fawr confluence at Cefn Coed. Then it’s onwards to Cardiff via the town of Merthyr Tydfil.
