Ystrad walks

This trail leads you to Sgwd-yr-Eira, Sgwd y Pannwr, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd Clun-Gwyn.

We're now well into the Brecon Beacons Way and this route begins with a walk through the Ogof Ffynnon Ddu National Nature Reserve, designated to protect its limestone pavements, associated flora and caves beneath. Then it heads north to climb up to Fan Llia and follow the crags over to Storey Arms. It then takes the Taff Trail to YHA Brecon Beacons.

A circular hike which allows easy access to Pen y Fan (886 m); the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons and South Wales. A walk through stunning landscapes, surrounded by sheep.
Very busy intinerary in high season.

The route continues on the west-to-east Brecon Beacons Way, now over halfway to its final destination at Abergavenny Station. This is possibly the most strenuous day's walking as there are a number of climbs, starting with Corn Du and Pen y Fan. However, on a clear day, the views are spectacular.

Michaelstone-y-Fedw Circular Walk. Rural footpaths through woodland and pasture with some steep sections.
Stiles and gates to negotiate. Look out for the distinct Michaelstone-y-Fedw Circular Walk Waymark Disc.

The Rhymney River Walk is a seven-mile circular walk around the lower Rhymney Valley.The short climbs through dappled woodland reward the walker with panoramic views of the valley floor and archaeological heritage of the area.

The route goes from YHA to YHA but essentially follows the Brecon Beacons Way going west-to-east. This section goes through a Site of Special Scientific Interest as it passes Llangorse Lake (Lyn Syfaddan). Formed in the Ice Age, it is one of the few naturally eutrophic lakes in Wales and is of national if not international importance.

Mostly rural paths, woodland tracks with some steep climbs, stiles and gates to negotiate. Enjoy great views over the rolling countryside around Machen. Look out for the distinct Rhiwderin Circular Walk Waymark Disc.

This Powys walk starts from Cwmgwdi and visits Corn Du passing the monument to the Lost Lad before continuing to Pen y Fan, the highest point in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Continuing, the walk then visits the summits of Cribyn and Fan y Big before returning to the start along the western side of Cwm Cynwyn.

Mostly rural paths with some stiles and kissing gates with spectacular views over the Gwent Levels and Severn Estuary. Roadside parking in Castleton.

Look out for the distinct Castleton Circular Walk Waymark Disc.

A refreshing walk following the surfaced towpaths of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal with some steep steps,
stiles and uneven field paths further along requiring sturdy footwear.

This route takes us across the River Usk and through Crickhowell, up Table Mountain to visit Crug Hywel (fort), over the Grwyne Fechan valley, up to Crug Mawr and down into Grwyne Fawr valley. It passes Partrishow Church, parts of which date from before 1065. Then it's a climb up Garn Wen and Bâl Bach before dropping down to Llantony and the Prior.

This is a brilliant linear trail in the Brecon Beacons National Park, incorporating many good viewpoints and one extra-special one. It begins in Carmarthenshire near the village of Llandeusant and ends in Powys in the Glyntawe valley, crossing a mountain ridge that beats Pen-y-Fan in my view, but because it's less accessible is less well-known.

The route leaves Llanddeusant and heads into the Black Mountains on the third leg of the Brecon Beacons Way. It's generally a walk south along ridges and mountain tops to finally drop down to the Craig-y-nos Country Park on the Afon Tawe river.

This Monmouthshire walk offers a short and direct ascent of the Sugar Loaf, which lies a few miles west of Abergavenny. The route is generally easy to follow and should be saved for a fine day as the views from the summit are excellent in fine weather.

This walk takes us north from Carreg Cennen Castle, into the Black Mountains on the second leg of the Brecon Beacons Way. There are a couple of climbs but nothing too difficult and there's plenty to see along the way.

This is the Beacons Way "the other way" from West to East. The prevailing wind comes from the west, so I prefer to have it at my back than in my face. However, there are a lot of North-South headings along this route and even an occasional westerly path. The scenery is fantastic either looking forward, back or to the side. A route to be enjoyed either way.

This is a short walk to begin the Brecon Beacons Way, going from west to east. You might need a few hours to get to Llangdog Station at the start of the walk or you might choose to stay in the village before setting out on the trail. Either way, this route is an easy way to break into your stride without any strain or stress.

The route goes south from Llantony Priory over Hatterall Hill, where it joins the Offa’s Dyke for 4.5km, down to the village of Llanvihangel Crucorney, which has an inn that dates back to the 11th century and up The Skirrid (also known as Holy Mountain), which rises to 486m. Finally, the route finds its way into Abergavenny and terminates at the station.

This walk leads you up into the black mountains starting along the cat's back, taking in 3 peaks, crossing the England/Wales boarder and across the highest road pass in Wales.

This Herefordshire walk offers some wonderful views of the Black Mountains without too much ascent. The route follows tracks and paths north of Craswall and includes the opportunity to visit the remains of Craswall Abbey. Despite the title, an ascent of Hay Bluff is not included but could easily be added to the route.