Afon Diliw / Afon Ystwyth

Nearby Rivers: West Coast and Machynlleth

The combination of the Diliw and Ystwyth, or upper section of the Ystwyth is a brilliant spate run. In big water, the upper parts will put most paddlers to the test; this run is of superb quality.

Afon Diliw / Afon Ystwyth to Cwmystwyth

9 km grade IV and V

Access can be made either by taking the small Elan Valley road from Rhayader, or by making your way towards Cwmystwyth from the coast. At Blaenycwm, it is possible to take a rough track up to the access on the Diliw GR843773. There is a ford here but, in conditions of spate when the run is on, it is unlikely you would want to take a vehicle through. It is possible to trek upstream from the ford where there is a big but canoeable drop, but most will start the run at the ford. The run starts off easily enough until Author’s Boat Gorge is reached. The name tells a sad tale; the water is grade V until the confluence with the Ystwyth.

Alternatively, put in on the Ystwyth above this confluence, as high as you dare GR854759. There is one kilometre of serious grade V paddling, with various pinning possibilities. A little way below the confluence there is an old stone arch, where the water sumps on the right. Run this left. There are certain blind bends on this river, though all rapids go in the right place. Inspect if in doubt. Egress is at Cwmystwyth bridge, before which a small weir and gorge are negotiated GR789739 - brilliant - I bet you’ll be back! Below here are two gorges, neither of which I have got around to trying, and therefore the information is second hand. The first is grade IV to V, depending on water levels with a possible portage at a dam through which the water flows. The second is an altogether more torrid affair and has only been attempted at low water with a lot of tedious portages. From the second gorge down to Aberystwyth is a class II to III run. There is at least one weir in the harbour but I know little else about this paddle.