Three Bridges Guide
Devil's Bridge: A Cascade of History and Engineering Guide
The Three Bridges at Devil's Bridge are a remarkable feat of engineering and a testament to human ingenuity. Located in a dramatic gorge where the River Mynach plunges into the River Rheidol, these three bridges are stacked one on top of the other, each representing a different era of construction. This unique site offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of bridge building and the enduring power of nature. The oldest bridge, believed to have been built in the 11th century, is attributed to monks from Strata Florida Abbey. Legend has it that the Devil himself built the bridge in exchange for the soul of the first person to cross it. However, a clever old woman outsmarted the Devil by sending her dog across first. The second bridge was built in 1753, and the third, the current bridge, was constructed in 1901. Each bridge was built on top of its predecessor as the original structures became inadequate for the increasing traffic. Visitors can explore the Three Bridges by descending the steep, winding steps into the gorge. The views of the bridges and the cascading waterfalls are truly spectacular. There are also several hiking trails in the surrounding area, offering stunning views of the Rheidol Valley. Be sure to visit the Punchbowl, a series of natural rock formations carved by the river. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the bridges themselves, the nearby village of Devil's Bridge offers traditional Welsh fare in its pubs and cafes, including Welsh rarebit and bara brith (fruit loaf).
Transportation
The village of Devil's Bridge is accessible by bus from Aberystwyth. The TrawsCymru T4 bus route connects Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge. The bus stop is located near the Devil's Bridge Hotel, a short walk from the bridges themselves.