Make sure to pack your hiking shoes when visiting the Brecon Beacons – you don’t want to miss these spectacular views! We’ve gathered a compilation of Brecon Beacon walks for you to easily decide which routes tickle your taste buds.
Reservoir walks
Crai
Providing water to the towns and villages of the Swansea Valley, Crai reservoir provides an easy hiking trail among the Welsh countryside. With easy access to the west side footpath near Sennybridge Road, head up north to the dam.
Here you will be greeted by magnificent views across the water and up and down the valley. An extension of the hike can be created by following the river Crai northwards.
http://www.gps-routes.co.uk/routes/home.nsf/RoutesLinksWalks/cray-reservoir-walking-route
Talybont
The largest still water reservoir in central Brecon Beacons. Talybont reservoir’s circular path will take you along both roadways and walking paths.
Yet you’ll encounter incredible views of the water for the majority of the walk. The greenery and colourful flowers are at their best during the spring months.
https://www.10adventures.com/hikes/brecon-beacons-national-park/talybont-reservoir-walk/
Usk
An area surrounded by moorland and forestry, this easy to moderate trail is perfect for forgetting the city/work. Breath in the fresh air for the next 10km on this Brecon Beacon walk, while reconnecting with nature all around.
Many picnic tables are dotted around this route, remember to take a picnic with you for your 3 hour hike. See here for our additional services which include a picnic option.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/wales/powys/usk-reservoir-circular
Forest Walks
Craig Cerrig Gleisiad
Described as a moderately challenging route, make sure to pack waterproofs as the trail can become quite muddy in areas – especially when crossing a small stream!
Hiking through woodlands before ascending to the ridge, this breathtaking landscape is home to unique plants and bird species. Take your binoculars if you are an avid birdwatcher!
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/wales/powys/craig-cerrig-gleisiad
Gladfynydd Forest
Looking for a short and easy Brecon Beacon walk, look no further than Glasfynydd Forest circular. A convenient car park begins the trail and should last around 1hr 20 mins to complete.
A route along openland and forests, enjoy nature at your own pace while taking in the surrounding beauty. There is also the possibility of joining this route with the Usk Reservoir trail.
https://naturalresources.wales/days-out/places-to-visit/south-east-wales/glasfynydd-forest/?lang=en
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/wales/powys/glasfynydd-forest-circular
Historical Walks
Lime Kilns of Cwmllynfell
With little known history of the area, the remains of the Lime Kilns in Cwmllynfell includes a spectacular, well-intact chimney stack. Taking the woodland path that follows the Afon Twrch, this magical area is full of historical clues that encourage imagination of what the area must have looked like all those years ago.
With many beautiful picnic stops along the route, make sure to take a towel incase you fancy a dip in one of the many ‘pools’ along the river.
https://www.behance.net/gallery/141129985/A-Study-of-Cwmllynfell-Lime-Kiln-Works
Little Tommy’s Footsteps
A quieter, and maybe less known walk, is Little Tommy’s Footsteps. This 8.5km loop is a moderately challenging route, which can be extended to include the peaks of Corn Ddu and Pen-Y-Fan.
A sad historical route of little Tommy, who at the age of 5, lost his way along the path only to be discovered 29 days later.
The Wellington bomber
The Brecon Beacons has a strong history as a Military training ground. Mountainous landscape with rolling hills and harsh weather conditions makes it a treacherous and unforgiving area.
Over thirty aircraft crash sites have been reported within the Brecon Beacons. A booklet detailing a brief history and location of each site is available at the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority.
Many of the crash sites are now difficult to find, however, the Wellington bomber crash site still has many of the plane’s wreckage spread amongst the landscape. Donned with two plaques to mark the area – one with the deceased aircrew’s names, and another commemorating a visit from one of the crewmen’s sister.
Waterfall walks
Pontneddfechan
Starting at the village of Pontneddfechan, enjoy the gentle well-maintained paths that lead you through several waterfalls. Touch some of the interesting rock formations and listen to the rushing water through the gorges.
Walking along the Nedd Fechan River to start, take a left for the Pyddin River where you’ll find Sgwd Gwladus falls. Heading back along Nedd Fechan River, Scwd Ddwli falls will greet you. Shortly followed by the perfect river picnic area at Pont Melin Fach (Small Yellow Bridge).
Cwmgiedd
Something a bit closer to the B&B, smaller and lesser known, is the Cwmgiedd circular trail. This Brecon Beacon walk is a bit of a tougher one, appropriate footwear is essential as some sections of the paths are rough and less distinct.
A change of clothing may also be required. You’ll need to carefully cross the water where no bridge is present. In addition, a relaxing plunge pool at the bottom of the small waterfall will entice you in for a quick dip.
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/wales/swansea/cwmgiedd-circular
Hack and Hound guest blog
We all know Wales is a place of beauty and a treasure trove for those with dogs, that’s why staycations here are booming. As someone who has lived here almost her entire life, I’ve had the privilege to walk many of the coastal paths with my dog, let him dig holes at...
Our top 5 favourite walks in the western Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog)
The western Brecon Beacons are an incredible and less explored area of the National Park and is predominantly made up of the Black Mountain (not to be confused with the Black Mountains on the Eastern edge of the park) and Carmarthen Fans.
Top 5 Tips to Market Your New B&B
Starting a new bed and breakfast (B&B), glamping or small hotel business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, like any other business, it requires effort and investment to get off the ground. One of the most important aspects of any new business is...