What’s in this guide
By Lucianna Biggs
A note on this guide: some walks are best suited for experienced hikers. Always check in with the Brecon Beacons National Park Visitor Centre before setting off in the Brecon Beacons to ensure the route is safe and suitable for your group. You can also check out walking safety advice here
The Brecon Beacons is a place where curiosity leads the way, turning every trail into a new adventure. Let little explorers paddle across Llangorse Lake, chase the mist at Henrhyd Falls, or wander through the quiet beauty of Hafren Forest. Step into history at the Big Pit, where underground tunnels tell tales of Wales’ past, or bring folklore to life at the legendary Llyn y Fan Fach. With hilltop ruins to conquer, wildlife to spot, and cosy cafés serving up warm slices of bara brith, the Brecon Beacons is where family adventures come to life—one discovery at a time.
Untamed Mountain Adventures
From summiting Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, to discovering glacial lakes like Llyn y Fan Fach, the Brecon Beacons is a haven for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.
Legends, Caves & Castles
Walk in the footsteps of ancient Welsh myths at Castell Dinas, explore the underground wonders of Dan-yr-Ogof Caves, or step into history at the atmospheric Craig y Nos Castle.
A Wild Escape for All
Whether it’s waterfall walks at Henrhyd Falls, wild camping with Ancient Boar, or glamping at Cwm Sticky Dingle, the Brecon Beacons offer adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable landscapes at every turn.
Pen y Fan & Woodfired Pizza:
Hike to the summit of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, where sweeping views stretch across the Brecon Beacons. After the climb, refuel with a well-earned woodfired pizza at The Little Dragon, just down the road.
Llyn y Fan Fach & Fawr Circular Walk:
Follow a stunning 2.4-mile trail through wild landscapes to the legendary Llyn y Fan Fach, a glacial lake steeped in Welsh folklore. Extend your adventure by continuing to Llyn y Fan Fawr for even more breathtaking views.
Dan-yr-Ogof Caves & Craig y Nos Castle:
Step into an underground world at Dan-yr-Ogof, where vast caverns, waterfalls, and even ancient rock formations create a magical experience. Then, head to Craig y Nos Castle, a grand Victorian estate surrounded by woodlands and gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Getting there (and around)
By Car:
The best way to explore the Brecon Beacons is by car, giving you the freedom to reach remote mountain trails, hidden valleys, and scenic lakes at your own pace. The drive through the Black Mountains and along winding country roads makes the journey just as rewarding as the destination.
By Train:
While there are no direct train services into the Brecon Beacons National Park, nearby stations like Abergavenny, Merthyr Tydfil, and Llandovery provide access to key gateway towns. Onward travel by bus, taxi, or car hire is needed to reach more remote spots.
By Bicycle:
The Brecon Beacons is a dream for cyclists, with long-distance routes like the Taff Trail and scenic mountain bike trails at Cwmcarn Forest. The varied terrain offers something for both road cyclists and off-road adventurers.
By Bus:
Local bus services connect towns like Brecon, Abergavenny, and Hay-on-Wye, but routes can be infrequent in rural areas. If you have time, you could create a unique adventure by combining train, bus, and walking routes to explore the region more slowly.
By Foot:
Many of the Brecon Beacons’ best sights—like Pen y Fan, Llyn y Fan Fach, and Henrhyd Falls—are best explored on foot. Well-marked trails crisscross the national park, making it easy to plan multi-day hikes or short day walks straight from your accommodation.
A 3-5 day stay in the Brecon Beacons gives you time to hike Pen y Fan, explore legendary sites like Dan-yr-Ogof Caves and Tintern Abbey, and experience outdoor adventures from wild swimming in Llyn y Fan Fach to cycling the Taff Trail. A longer stay lets you slow down, explore hidden gems like Castell Dinas, try wild camping with Ancient Boar, or simply soak in the region’s beauty at your own pace – whether that’s through mountain hikes or cosy pub evenings.
When to go
The Brecon Beacons is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. Spring to early autumn (April to September) is ideal for hiking Pen y Fan, canoeing the Wye Valley, and cycling through Cwmcarn Forest, with longer daylight hours and mild weather. Autumn brings golden landscapes, perfect for walks like the Four Falls Trail and wildlife spotting at Llyn y Fan Fach. Winter transforms the region into a wild and atmospheric escape – think bracing hikes, frozen waterfalls at Henrhyd Falls, and warming up in a cosy country pub after a crisp mountain adventure.
Start your adventure with breakfast at Hanging Gardens Café, a cosy spot serving up fresh coffee and hearty morning fuel to set you up for the day ahead.
Once you’re ready to go, head to Hafren Forest, where peaceful woodland trails wind through towering pines. Take on the Severn-Break-its-Neck trail, a stunning route leading to a dramatic waterfall. With plenty of beauty spots along the way, it’s the perfect place to pause for a picnic and soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Next, make your way to the charming town of Llanidloes. If you need a refreshment break, Hireath Café – set in a beautiful Grade II listed building – is a great place for coffee. Browse some independent shops before heading to your next stop.
From here, drive to Llyn Clywedog, a vast reservoir nestled among rolling hills. Take a wandering stroll along the Clywedog Gorge Trail, a short but rewarding 1-mile route offering breathtaking views over the water.
For a spectacular end to the day, drive to Wynford Vaughan-Thomas 360° Viewpoint, just above Machynlleth. Watching the sun set over Foel Fadian’s peak is a truly unforgettable experience, as the landscape glows in golden hues.
If you have time to spare, stick around for a dark skies stargazing experience – the Brecon Beacons is one of the UK’s best spots for spotting constellations in a crystal-clear night sky.
After a day of waterfalls, woodlands, scenic reservoirs, and mountain views, you’ll have had a perfect taste of what makes this part of Wales so special.
If you have extra time to explore, the Brecon Beacons offers even more adventure, from towering peaks to hidden waterfalls and underground wonders.
For epic hikes, tackle Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, where breathtaking views reward every step. For a wilder escape, the Llyn y Fan Fach hike takes you past stunning waterfalls and up to a vast glacial lake steeped in Welsh legend – perfect for those seeking a mystical mountain experience.
For waterside adventures, Llangorse Lake is a must-visit. Paddle across the water, hire a boat, or follow the scenic walking trails along the shores, where wildlife thrives in this peaceful setting.
For deep forest exploration, head to Hafren Forest, where well-marked trails wind through towering pines, leading to waterfalls and peaceful picnic spots.
For a journey into Wales’ industrial past, visit The Big Pit, a former coal mine where ex-miners lead underground tours, giving a fascinating and immersive insight into the region’s history.
For a true wilderness experience, try a survival course or wild camping with Ancient Boar. Learn essential bushcraft skills and embrace an off-grid adventure in the heart of the Brecon Beacons.
For waterfall lovers, Henrhyd Falls is a must-see. As South Wales’ highest waterfall, it’s an easy but rewarding walk, and movie fans will recognize it as the entrance to the Batcave in The Dark Knight Rises. Another great spot for chasing waterfalls is the Elidir Trail, where a series of picturesque cascades make for a stunning hike.
For underground explorers, venture into the Dan-yr-Ogof Caves, a vast network of caverns filled with dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and even life-sized dinosaurs for younger adventurers.
For a peaceful nature retreat, take a stroll through Craig y Nos Country Park & Castle, where woodlands, meadows, and a scenic lake surround this grand Victorian estate, once home to opera singer Adelina Patti.
For a delicious ending to your adventure, visit the International Bara Brith Centre and sample the best bara brith in Wales – warm, spiced, and perfect with a cup of tea.
With extra time, you can uncover the true magic of the Brecon Beacons, from its rugged mountains to its hidden waterfalls and underground wonders. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or exploring deep caves, every adventure promises incredible scenery and unforgettable moments.
Check out our favorite spots on the Canvas and Cub map
Belan Bluebell Woods:
A magical woodland retreat with seasonal bluebells, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.
Seren Bach Campsite:
A small, family-friendly campsite with stunning mountain views, perfect for stargazing and relaxation.
Fforest Fields:
A back-to-basics camping experience with an onsite lake, rolling hills, and endless space to explore.
Cwm Sticky Dingle:
A cosy retreat featuring yurts and huts, set in a secluded valley perfect for a peaceful escape.
Cwtch Woodland Cabin, Penlan:
A charming off-grid cabin nestled in the woods, ideal for a quiet nature-filled getaway.
Toad & Snail Glamping:
A quirky glamping experience with unique stays, offering a blend of comfort and adventure in the heart of nature.
The Little Dragon (Newton):
A well-loved spot for refueling after a Pen y Fan hike, serving delicious woodfired pizzas in a welcoming setting.
The International Welsh Rarebit Centre (Defynnog):
A hidden gem dedicated to one of Wales’ most iconic dishes—expect top-tier rarebit made with local ingredients.
The Felin Fach Griffin (Between Brecon & Hay-on-Wye):
A stylish but family-friendly gastropub, offering locally sourced seasonal dishes in a cozy country setting.
Hanging Gardens Café (Brecon):
A cozy spot serving up fresh coffee and hearty breakfast to fuel your adventure, perfect for a relaxed morning start.
The Hours Café & Bookshop (Brecon):
A charming café-meets-bookshop offering homemade cakes, freshly prepared meals, and a curated selection of books in a cozy setting.
International Bara Brith Centre (Llandeilo):
The best place to sample traditional Welsh bara brith—warm, spiced, and perfect with a cup of tea after a day exploring.
