The 5 best day walks in Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)

- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Distance: 9.4 km (5.8 miles)
- Time: 3-4 hours

Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, offers a challenging yet rewarding hike. The Corn Du Horseshoe route on the Harvey Brecon Beacons West Ultramap takes you to the summit of Pen y Fan and over its sister peaks, including Corn Du and Cribyn. The breathtaking views from the top make the steep ascent well worth it.

Tip: The weather in the Brecon Beacons can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly, particularly at higher elevations. Be sure to bring layers, a waterproof Harvey Map, a rain jacket and sturdy walking boots with good grip to keep you going.

- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 7.5 km (4.7 miles)
- Time: 2-3 hours

For a gentler, equally stunning experience, the Four Waterfalls Walk is a must-do. This trail guides you through lush woodlands and along the enchanting Mellte and Hepste rivers, leading you to four beautiful waterfalls, including the famous Sgwd yr Eira, where you can walk behind the curtain of water. The path is narrow and slippery, so tread carefully, but the experience is unforgettable, and you won't have to worry about soaking your 100% waterproof Brecon Beacons West map. The trail is well-signposted, making it easy to navigate even for first-time visitors but make sure you wear the right gear and footwear.

Tip: For those looking to experience the magic of Waterfall Country but with a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel, the Elidir Trail (Distance: 2.4 - 4.5km, one way) offers an enchanting adventure. This lesser-known walk takes you through some of the most picturesque woodlands and past the legendary Sgwd Gwladus (Lady Falls), making it a perfect addition to your exploration of the Brecon Beacons. The Elidir Trail makes for a shorter walk but is steeped in natural beauty and folklore.

- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 14 km (9 miles)
- Time: 4-6 hours

This walk takes you to two stunning glacial lakes nestled beneath the towering cliffs of the Black Mountain range. The gradual ascent and otherworldly landscape create a truly mystical experience, with panoramic views across Carmarthenshire and Powys. On a clear day, you can see for miles, with the peaks of Pen y Fan and Corn Du visible in the distance.

Tip: If you're interested in Welsh legends, take a moment to pause at the lake and imagine the mystical Lady of the Lake rising from its depths. The lake's stillness and beauty certainly lend an air of mystery to the landscape.

- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
- Time: 2-3 hours

The Sugar Loaf's conical shape offers a fantastic hike with spectacular views. The walk takes you through a patchwork of fields, woodlands, and open moorland before the final steep climb to the summit, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. The combination of gentle woodland paths, wide-open spaces, and a summit scramble makes it an exciting and varied hike.

Tip: If you're an early riser, the Sugar Loaf is a fantastic place to catch a sunrise. The moorland is also grazed by Welsh mountain sheep, and you might spot some of the wild ponies that roam freely across this part of the Brecon Beacons.

- Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
- Distance: 13 km (8 miles)
- Time: 4-5 hours

The Dragon's Back Circular Walk is one of the most exciting and visually stunning hikes in the Brecon Beacons. The walk begins with a steady ascent through the Grwyne Fawr Valley, with the towering ridge of the Dragon's Back visible ahead. The climb up the lower slopes is relatively gentle, giving you time to take in the beautiful surroundings. After completing the exhilarating ridge section, the trail continues towards the summit of Waun Fach, the highest point in the Black Mountains at 811 meters (2,661 feet).

Tip: The winds can be strong at the summit, so bring layers and be prepared for cooler conditions, even on a sunny day. A warm drink in a HARVEY Thermabottle is a great idea for a summit break!