Pen y Fan from the North Ridge

Name: Pen y Fan from the North Ridge
Start: 2025-06-28T09:30:00+01:00
End: 2025-06-28T16:30:00+01:00
Location: Cwm Gwdi,Llanfaes,LD3 8LG,GB

Schedule

Sat Jun 28 2025 at 09:30 am to 04:30 pm

UTC+01:00

Location

Cwm Gwdi,Llanfaes,LD3 8LG,GB | Brecon, WA

This guided walk will take you to the highest summit in South Wales, Pen y Fan, via its challenging North Ridge with breath-taking views.
Join us for an unforgettable circular hike through the spectacular Brecon Beacons National Park! This guided walk will take you to the highest summit in South Wales, Pen y Fan, via its challenging North Ridge, with breathtaking views, fascinating landscapes, and a sense of achievement as we conquer multiple summits.
We’ll kick off the adventure at Cwm Gwdi, a serene valley at the foot of Pen y Fan. From here, we’ll start our climb, ascending the dramatic North Ridge of Pen y Fan. As we climb, we’ll pass through rugged terrain with beautiful views of the surrounding valleys, forests, and the summit of Pen y Fan looming ahead.
Reaching the top of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons, is a major highlight. The views from the summit are truly breathtaking — on a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as the Bristol Channel, the Black Mountains to the east, and the rolling hills and valleys of the Brecon Beacons stretching out in every direction. At the summit, we’ll pause for a well-deserved break and soak in the panoramic vistas.
After Pen y Fan, we’ll continue along the ridge to Cribyn, a distinctive peak offering spectacular views back towards Pen y Fan and the distant valleys below. As we walk, we’ll pass rocky outcrops and grassy ridgelines, with sweeping views of the surrounding peaks, such as Fan y Big and Corn Du.
The path then leads us to Fan y Big, a striking peak with steep cliffs and a rugged, isolated feel. From here, the views are even more dramatic, as we’ll be looking down into the Usk Valley and across the sweeping landscapes of the Central Beacons. The mountain ridges and rolling hills below are a photographer's dream, with opportunities for great photos along the way.
For the return journey, we’ll descend through quieter valleys, taking in the contrasting beauty of the lower terrain. As we make our way back, we’ll pass through peaceful meadows, dense woodlands, and gentle streams, offering a serene and more tranquil end to the hike.
Breathtaking Mountain Views: Expect panoramic vistas over the Brecon Beacons, with sweeping views of the valley floors, surrounding peaks, and distant horizons.
What to Expect
Challenging Terrain: This hike is physically demanding with a total ascent of 1035 meters, making it perfect for those looking to test their limits. Expect rocky paths & steep climbs.
Stunning Views at Every Turn : Whether you're at the summit of Pen y Fan, crossing the ridge to Cribyn, or descending through the valleys, you’ll be surrounded by some of the best views in Wales.
Iconic Summits: Experience the majestic sights of Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big from multiple angles as you traverse their ridges and summits.
Diverse Landscapes: From the rugged, rocky terrain of the mountain ridges to the lush, green valleys below you will witness the full diversity of the Brecon Beacons’ landscapes.
Wildlife & Nature: The area is rich in wildlife, including mountain hares, red kites and a variety of wildflowers. The peaceful valleys and higher mountain slopes provide an opportunity to connect with nature.
Who’s It For?
This event is suitable for anyone with a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. The route involves steep ascents and rocky terrain so some previous hiking experience is recommended.
Important Information
Distance – 17km
Total Ascent – 1035m
6 hours approximately
Fitness Level - a good level of fitness is required for this event.
Parking and start and finish location
Google - https://maps.app.goo.gl/LFYTyCjWqoYJroSc6
What3Words – https://w3w.co/drifter.oddly.headings
PLEASE NOTE
This is a free walk organised to enjoy the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the Brecon Beacons. As a proud member of the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team, I kindly ask for a minimum donation of £5.00 to support our vital work. Your contributions help fund the essential equipment, training, and resources we need to carry out life-saving operations. Every penny will go towards ensuring we can continue providing assistance and rescuing those in need, often in challenging conditions. Your generosity is deeply appreciated and makes a real difference.