Section 37 of 84, Wales Coast Path
Bryncrug to Abertafol
11.7 miles (18.8 km). About 4½ hours, moderate.
Start: SH 608 033. Finish: SN 645 979. OS grid.
Take it with you: download this section's GPX file (it opens in OS Maps, Komoot, Outdooractive or a GPS unit) or open the start in OS Maps.
Warning: Diversion in place. Part of this route is closed or diverted for now. The Wales Coast Path site (updated 22 September 2026) lists temporary diversions in several places, many until further notice, including landslides at Porthdinllaen in Gwynedd and Porth Swtan, Llanfaethlu and Lligwy on Anglesey. Neath Port Talbot Council says the path around Baglan, Briton Ferry and Sandfields West has been closed since 2023 because of sinkholes and the agreed diversion stays in place. Check the official diversions page before setting out. Source: walescoastpath.gov.uk.
Up and down
About 313 m of climbing and 94 m of descent; highest point 245 m.
Getting there
The section starts at Bryncrug.
- Bus stop
- Groesffordd, 440 m from the start. Directions SH 608 028
- Car parks
- Car park, 50 m from the start. Directions SH 609 033Layby, 700 m from the start. Directions SH 602 036
Getting back
The section finishes at Abertafol.
No bus stop or station within a kilometre of the finish. Nearest: Penhelyg station, 3 km away (Directions).
Planning the Wales Coast Path
- Planning the whole trail: walescoastpath.gov.uk.
- Baggage transfer: the services listed for the trail.
What to expect
Underfoot: earth, rock and mud 33%, paved or flagged 29%, grass 6%; the rest (29%) isn't recorded.
About 21% on roads with traffic.
On the way: 2 stiles, 3 kissing gates, 13 gates.
Steepest climb: about 132 m in a kilometre (1 in 8), starting 9.5 miles in.
From OpenStreetMap, where mappers have recorded it: check before you go.
Walked it? Log it
Something wrong or missing?
Tell us what to change about this section: a wrong distance, a moved start, a path that's closed.