The Village That Turned Its Back on the Modern Grid
Nestled in the heart of southern Powys lies the tiny village of Ystradfellte, a community that holds a unique place in Welsh history. On December 1, 1960, this settlement became the very last village in all of Wales to be connected to the national electricity grid. The arrival of this modern convenience, however, was met with a famously lukewarm reception from its residents.
When television crews descended to document the momentous occasion, they found a populace largely unimpressed. Some villagers remarked that they "already had a wonderful iron and kettle and a beautiful gas oven", while others dismissively stated that televisions were "not for people like us". The local parish vicar at the time confirmed the community's ambivalence, describing the response as decidedly tepid.
A Modern-Day Magnet for Nature Lovers
Sixty-five years later, it is not the promise of mains electricity that draws people to Ystradfellte, but its breathtaking natural beauty. The village, home to only a small number of permanent residents, sees its population swell dramatically during the holiday season as tourists flock to this enchanting corner of Wales.
The primary attraction is the renowned Four Waterfalls Walk, a spectacular trail that winds through the area known as Waterfall Country within the Brecon Beacons National Park. This walking route, which spans approximately eight miles but can be adapted for different schedules and fitness levels, has been hailed by visitors as a "day to remember" with "fabulous scenery".
The quartet of waterfalls that encircle the village—Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira—have become a beloved destination for ramblers. One recent visitor praised the experience as "Wales at its absolute best", while another raved about the "spectacular waterfalls with wild swim spots".
Balancing Beauty with the Challenges of Popularity
Despite the overwhelming praise, the popularity of the Four Waterfalls Walk presents its own challenges. Some visitors have noted that the location can become "too crowded" during peak periods, with one frustrated tourist branding their trip "probably the most overcrowded and disappointing walking experience".
This visitor elaborated on the difficulties of navigating the paths with a young child and a dog on a lead, citing the large crowds and poorly shod walkers as sources of stress. The experience stands in stark contrast to that of a Cardiff man who visited on a sunny day, found ample parking at the CWM Porth car park, and enjoyed a peaceful, easy walk to the first waterfall in just 20 to 25 minutes.
Beyond the waterfalls, the area retains its traditional charm with historic pubs and centuries-old churches dotting the landscape. The Red Lion Inn in the nearby village of Penderyn receives excellent reviews, with one patron describing it as a "fancy restaurant with creative cuisine" in a cosy atmosphere. The village of Pontneddfechan also serves as an alternative starting point for waterfall walks, home to the Old White Horse Inn and the Angel Inn.
Ystradfellte's history stretches back far beyond its late electrification. It was on this land in 1316 that the rebellious Welsh nobleman Llywelyn Bren surrendered following his uprising, doing so on the understanding that his followers would be spared—a promise that was tragically broken when he was executed two years later at Cardiff Castle.
Today, the village described as being at the "southern foot of the Fforest Fawr" continues to captivate those who discover it, seamlessly blending its rich history with its status as a gateway to some of Wales's most stunning natural landscapes.
