Best trails in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)
The Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, also known as the Brecon Beacons, is located in the South of Wales and encompasses four beautiful mountain ranges: the iconic Brecon Beacons range (after which the park was named), the Black Mountains, Fforest Fawr, and Y Mynydd Du (Black Mountain). Its landscape is characterised by stretches of grassland and moorland, with hills and mountains that are home to Welsh mountain ponies and Welsh mountain sheep. There are also plenty of beautiful forestry plantations, remote reservoirs, waterfalls, and caves to explore.
Nestled between these mountain ranges, you’ll find plenty of camping grounds and picturesque villages to meander through, offering accommodation and refreshments, with larger towns along the edges of the park to wander about or stock up on camping and hiking gear.
Top trails
1
(3263)
•Hard
•9.2 mi
•Est. 5h 21m
This trail follows a version of the iconic horseshoe route, visiting Pen y Fan and its neighbouring peaks in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). The name Pen y Fan roughly translates to “Top One” or “Top Spot” and it is the highest peak in South Wales, as well as Britain south of Cadair Idris (which lies in Eryri National Park in North Wales).
There are a variety of routes to choose from, with this horseshoe route offering a longer and more demanding option, taking in the...
2
(3507)
•Moderate
•5.3 mi
This is a great trail with stunning views of and access to four waterfalls near Ystradfellte in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. A popular trail, the beautiful scenery is a reward for the rough and steep terrain.
Starting from Gwaun Hepste car park, the trail winds through the woods and follows the Afon Mellte. The waterfalls you visit on this route are Sgwd Uchaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, and Sgwd yr Eira on the Afon Hepste. This trail follows the main...
3
(3233)
•Hard
•4.6 mi
•Est. 3h 11m
This is a fantastic trail that allows visitors to experience the spectacular landscape of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). The route takes you to the peaks of Corn Du and Pen Y Fan, with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Make sure you come well prepared for changing weather and rocky ascents.
Pen y Fan is the highest mountain in South Wales and hiking routes up to its summit are readily accessible by road, and you may pick from a choice of trails to...
4
(1267)
•Moderate
•3.9 mi
•Est. 2h 48m
The Pen y Fan and Corn Du trail offers spectacular, unrivalled views of the beautiful Welsh countryside in the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). Pen y Fan is the highest mountain in South Wales, and a popular destination for walkers. Its name roughly translates from the Welsh language to mean ‘top of this place’, and the mountain and surrounding area are owned by the National Trust.
Pen y Fan’s secondary summit, Corn Du (trans. Black Horn), was previously named Cadair...
5
(1873)
•Moderate
•5.0 mi
•Est. 2h 21m
Coed y Rhaiadr, aptly named for its abundance of waterfalls, is a stunning woodland located along the southern edge of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). This trail takes you to visit some of the most iconic waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons: Sgwd Uchaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.
This trail starts from the Cwm Porth Car Park near Porth yr Ogof, which has the largest cave entrance in Wales.
Head south along the Afon Mellte into the...
6
(1365)
•Hard
•3.9 mi
•Est. 2h 47m
Welcome to the Brecon Beacons! This challenging trail takes you up Corn Du, Pen y Fan and Cribyn. Spectacular views await you but bring your best hillwalking boots, plenty of fuel and check the weather for this one! This trail is fairly exposed so if it is a windy day, you're going to know about it. Members have reported slippery surfaces, mud and rocky areas which may require scrambling. This route will repay you with stunning landscapes. Due to the popularity of this area, this route can...
7
(1807)
•Hard
•7.2 mi
•Est. 4h 54m
Enjoy this beautiful circular that takes in amazing views as you make your way up to Waun Fach and down the 'Dragon's Back', an undulating, winding ridge reminiscent of the mythical beast.
The trail starts by heading through the farmlands, along paths and roads, before climbing steeply up into the hills and to the summits of Pen Trumau, Waun Fach, and Pen y Manllwyn where you can take in the sweeping views.
The trail the descends via Y Grib and Bwlch Bach a'r Grib and passes through the...
8
(993)
•Hard
•9.3 mi
•Est. 5h 16m
This is one of the best hikes in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), taking you up the Carmarthen Fans (Bannau Sir Gaer), visiting the peaks of Waun Lefrith, Picws Du, Fan Foel, and Fan Brycheiniog. This area boasts breathtaking views, serene lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.
The trail starts from the Fforest Fawr car park, where you follow the gravel path along the Afon Sawdde. Gradually ascending, you’ll pass several small lakes before reaching the banks of...
9
(861)
•Moderate
•5.3 mi
•Est. 2h 41m
Coed y Rhaiadr, aptly named for its abundance of waterfalls, is a stunning woodland located along the southern edge of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). This trail takes you to visit some of the most iconic waterfalls of the Brecon Beacons: Sgwd Uchaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.
This trail starts at the Clyngwyn car park northeast of Pontneddfechan and leads you across the green fields and into the enchanting woodland. Your first stop...
10
(1086)
•Moderate
•4.3 mi
•Est. 2h 32m
This is a lovely winding trail, taking you to the summits of Mynydd Llanwenarth and Sugar Loaf (Mynydd Pen-y-fâl), offering spectacular views on a clear day.
Sugar Loaf Mountain is located near the town of Abergavenny, and it’s one of the outlying peaks in the Black Mountains in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons).
Rising to 596m, its conical-shaped peak offers awe-inspiring panoramic views of South Wales. Don't be fooled by its appearance though; while it may resemble a...
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) is Pen Y Fan Horseshoe, which has a 4.8 star rating from 3,263 reviews. This trail is 9.2 mi long with an elevation gain of 2,575 ft.
What is the longest trail in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) is Cambrian Way . This trail is estimated to be 287.5 mi long.
How many trails are in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
There are 410 trails in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons). These trails have an average 4.4-star rating from 53,129 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) has you covered. Cambrian Way boasts the most elevation gain with 71,965 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is The Beacons Way, which will get you 22,513 ft of elevation gain.
Are there camping trails available in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 93 camping trails in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) and the most popular is Pen Y Fan Horseshoe with an average 4.8 star rating from 3,263 community reviews.
Are there running trails available in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 292 running trails in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) and the most popular is Pen Y Fan Horseshoe with an average 4.8 star rating from 3,263 community reviews.
Are there biking trails available in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
According to AllTrails.com, there are 66 biking trails in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons) and the most popular is Pontsticill Circular with an average 4.6 star rating from 688 community reviews.
Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 293 trails with scenic mountain peak views in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Pen Y Fan Horseshoe, Pen y Fan Circular, Pen y Fan and Corn Du via the Motorway, Three Peaks: Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn, and Dragon's Back Circular.
Are there any trails with waterfalls in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 29 trails with waterfalls in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Four Waterfalls Walk, Cwm Porth to Four Waterfalls Trail, Four Waterfalls Trail from Clyngwyn, Elidir Trail, and Sgwd Gwladys (Lady Falls).
Are there any trails with caves in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 21 trails with caves in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Cwm Porth to Four Waterfalls Trail, Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular, Gilwern and Clydach Circular, Llangattock Circular, and Craig y Cilau Circular.
Are there any trails with historical monuments in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 26 trails with historical monuments in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Elidir Trail, Sgwd Gwladys (Lady Falls), Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular, Blaen y Glyn, Bwlch y Ddwyallt, and Canadian War Memorial Circular, and Crickhowell to Table Mountain.
Are there any trails with rivers in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 135 trails with rivers in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Four Waterfalls Walk, Cwm Porth to Four Waterfalls Trail, Four Waterfalls Trail from Clyngwyn, Pontsticill Circular, and Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular.
Are there any trails with dams in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 22 trails with dams in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Pontsticill Circular, Usk Reservoir Circular, Talybont Reservoir, Talybont Reservoir and Tor y Foel Circular, and Carn Pica and Talybont Reservoir Circular.
Are there any trails with castles in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 32 trails with castles in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Hay-on-Wye Long and Wood Offas Dyke Circular, Carreg Cennen Castle Circular, Riverside walk Hay-on-Wye, Carreg Cennan Castle and Llygad Llwchwr Circular, and Sugar Loaf from Abergavenny Station.
Are there any trails with archaeological sites in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 71 trails with archaeological sites in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Elidir Trail, Pontneddfechan and Ystradfellte Waterfalls Circular, Crickhowell to Table Mountain, Hay Bluff and Lord Herefords Knob Circular, and Pen Allt-mawr and Pen Cerrig-calch Circular.
Are there any trails with lakes in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 38 trails with lakes in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Llyn y Fan Fach, Llyn y Fan Fawr, and The Carmarthen Fans Circular, The Cwm Llwch Horseshoe, The Blorenge Circular, The Blorenge and Keeper's Pond Circular, and Llyn y Fan Fawr and Llyn y Fan Fach Circular.
Are there any trails with bird hides or bird blinds in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 3 trails with bird hides or bird blinds in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Llangorse Lake View Point, Llangorse Lake Circular, and Llangasty Tal y Llyn Circular.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 13 trails with scenic viewpoints in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Hay Bluff and Lord Herefords Knob Circular, Gilwern and Clydach Circular, Hay Bluff, Cat's Back Circular, and Hay Bluff Circular.
Are there any trails with cliffs in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 70 trails with cliffs in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Pen Y Fan Horseshoe, Pen y Fan Circular, Pen y Fan and Corn Du via the Motorway, Three Peaks: Corn Du, Pen y Fan, and Cribyn, and The Cwm Llwch Horseshoe.
Are there any trails with historical ruins in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 28 trails with historical ruins in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Llyn y Fan Fach, Llyn y Fan Fawr, and The Carmarthen Fans Circular, Skirrid Fawr, Llyn y Fan Fawr and Llyn y Fan Fach Circular, The Skirrid Circular, and Fan Hir and Drovers Trail.
Are there any trails with huts in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 11 trails with huts in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Pen Y Gadair Fawr, Waun Fach and Grwyne Fawr Reservoir Circular, Grwyne Fawr Reservoir, Rhos Dirion, and Chwarel Y Fan Circular, Grwyne Fawr, Bal-Mawr Circular, and Llanelieu and Capel-y-ffin Circular.
Are there any trails with picnic areas in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 17 trails with picnic areas in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Talybont-on-Usk Circular, Cat's Back Circular, Talybont Aqueduct and Talybont Reservoir Circular, Henry Vaughan Walk, and Tal-y-bont on Usk - Tor-y-Foel Circular.
Are there any trails with bays in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 12 trails with bays in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Tor y Foel Circular from Lower Lock, Crickhowell and River Usk, Brecon Promenade, The Gurkha Walk, and Beacons Way Day 3: Crickhowell to Llangynidr.
Are there any trails with springs in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 9 trails with springs in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Hay-on-Wye Long and Wood Offas Dyke Circular, Carreg Cennen Castle Circular, Carreg Cennan Castle and Llygad Llwchwr Circular, Mynydd Llangorse Circular, and Tretower, Cefn Moel and Cwmdu Ciruclar.
Are there any trails with ponds in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons)?
Yes, there are 3 trails with ponds in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park (Brecon Beacons), including Garreg Ias Circular, Herbert's Quarry to Llyn y Fan Fach Circular, and Beacons Way Day 7: Llanddeusant to Carreg Cennen Castle.