Pen y Fan

The Brecon Beacons National Park takes its name from the mountains which rise dramatically above the market town of Brecon. It’s said the beacons are so-called as they were used hundreds of years ago to relay warning messages in times of danger by lighting fiery beacons along the ridge. Today, the Taf Fechan skyline still dominates the landscape here, with four of the national park’s best known peaks standing proudly over the Taf Fechan valley.

While Cribyn, Fan y Big and Corn Du may not be familiar to you, Pen y Fan is one of the most popular walks in the Brecon Beacons, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s perfect for beginners who might not yet feel fully confident out on the hills: the path to the summit starts by the car park and navigation is straight forward all the way to the top, with nothing technical to worry about.

Tackling all four peaks together makes for a cracking day out walking with views which are simply breathtaking – more than worth the effort required. Looking across to Cribyn, it almost looks like a giant has taken an ice cream scoop to the range, so perfect and smooth are the plunging hill sides. 

If you don’t have the time for a full day out, Pen y Fan can be tackled on its own, and is the perfect place to watch the sun rise on a clear day – you’ll forget all about the early morning as the sky is painted with a hundred different shades of pink, amber and gold.

This leg stretcher is a great walk for fit dogs as well as humans – they’ll absolutely love going on an adventure together (especially the snack stops). There are sheep grazing on the hills here, so you’ll need to keep your dog under close control, and keep your eyes peeled for the hardy Welsh Mountain ponies who call these peaks home.

Bring leads, water and poop bags.

Daylight hours recommended.

Park at Storey Arms Outdoor Centre, Libanus, Brecon, Powys, LD3 8NL.