The Ferns Cottage

Rural Holiday Cottages

There and Back Again - with Cake!

A moderate hike to a cosy café, tucked away in the Welsh landscape.

Access the Trail

Enjoy the convenience of town amenities while immersing yourself in the rural charm and seclusion of our cottage.

Ugly House Trail

Discover a picturesque river walk, winding through rocky hills, lush fields, and tranquil forests, ending at a charming café.

Experience the beauty of nature as you traverse winding paths alongside the flowing Afon Llugwy river. Climb rocky paths to take in the breathtaking views, traverse the peaceful woodlands, and descend into the lush grassy plains.

Be sure to keep an eye out for the Rhaeadr Ewynnol (Swallow Falls) viewpoint to get the best view of the spectacular waterfall.

Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Duration: 3-4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate

Ensure you wear suitable footwear, the path can be rocky and steep in places. Path may be muddy after rainfall.

The Trail

Start out from the Cottage and walk up through town towards Pont-y-Pair Bridge.
Cross over Pont-y-Pair Bridge and head left onto Tan Dinas Path. Follow this trail, taking you over the wooden footpath.
Continue walking along by the river and stay left as you walk around the large rock – see if you can spot the small cave in the rock as you walk by!
Cross the stone bridge to take you into a large field with a scenic river view. Continue following the trail across the field.
Once across the field, head back into the woods through a small metal gate – it can be rocky around this area!

Keep following the trail close to the river, the rocky path can be slippery but you’ll see incredible views of the river along this route.
Follow this path until you come to Miner’s Bridge – don’t miss the opportunity to walk down the historic crossing and get a good view of the waterfall at the bottom.
Heading back up the Miner’s bridge, continue to climb up the hill – this path is very steep and rocky so watch your footing. It becomes a lot easier at the top!
Once at the top of the hill, make sure to take in the incredible view and continue down the tarmac road.

Continue along this road until you come to a fork in the trail – take the left hand path leading down hill into the woodlands.
Head over the small wooden to cross over a small tranquil river.
Keep following this trail, beginning to ascend up a rocky path.
The path will begin to get narrower as you head along the cliff edge – watch your footing long the trail but be sure to take in the impressive views from up here!
Follow along this path until you get to the Swallow Falls viewpoint. There is a small bench tucked away for you to take a break and get some great views of the spectacular waterfall.

Follow along this path until you get to the Swallow Falls viewpoint. There is a small bench tucked away for you to take a break and get some great views of the spectacular waterfall.
Once you’re ready to keep going, carry on along the path until you come to another fork in the road – take the left path once again and head down towards the river. This path can be slippery and rocky so watch your step!
Climb over the wooden stile at the end of the path and head into a large field – the river looks beautiful from here!

Keep to the left side of the field and follow the river as you head across. When you reach the wooden steps, cross over the wall and follow the stone footpath – this looks like something out of a fairytale.
Follow this trail until you reach the bridge and head up the steps onto the road.
You’ve made it to the Ugly House Café! Head in and grab some refreshments before heading back the way you came or heading up the hill to follow the alternate trail shown on the map.

Trail also available on AllTrails

Scan to QR code to download the AllTrails walking app for easier navigation of our custom made route.

Ready to book your stay?

If our enchanting cottages and picturesque surroundings have captured your imagination, why wait? Book your stay now and indulge in the cozy comforts and serene beauty that await you.

We can’t wait to welcome you to your perfect getaway.