Ystradowen and Cwmllynfell are on the Western slopes of the Swansea Valley, on the road from Ystradgynlais to Brynamman. They sprang up as mining communities and several small mines and open cast mining operations were operated close by. Today they retain a strong Welsh speaking tradition and the close knit community spirit is still evident. Rugby is by far the most popular sport in the area with each small village still fielding rugby sides in different age groups.

The Black Mountain (Y Mynydd Du)  and nearby peak of Ynys Uchaf offer lovely walks. There are waterfalls and standing stones along Afon Twrch as it tumbles down the hillside to eventually join the River Tawe at Ystylfera.