Conwy Falls, Waterfall in Bro Machno, Wales
Conwy Falls is a waterfall on the River Conwy in Bro Machno, Wales, where the water drops into a deep gorge surrounded by old woodland. The site also includes a fish pass made up of a series of pools that allows salmon to move upstream during their migration.
A wooden salmon ladder was built here in the 19th century to help fish move past the falls. It was replaced in 1993 by a more effective system of pools better suited to the needs of migrating fish.
The cafe building near the falls was designed by Clough Williams-Ellis, the architect behind the village of Portmeirion on the Welsh coast. His touch shows in the Georgian details of the building, which still serves as the starting point for visitors today.
Access to the falls starts from a cafe parking area on Pentrefoelas Road near Betws-y-Coed, where woodland paths lead directly to the viewing points. The paths are generally easy to follow, but sturdy footwear is a good idea since the ground near the gorge can be wet and uneven.
A water gauging station at the falls controls how much water is directed into the fish pass and how much stays in the main drop. This helps protect rare plants growing in the gorge that would be at risk if water levels fell too low.
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