From the glacial lake of Llyn y Fan Fach to the wild ridges of the Black Mountain, these are the best walks within easy reach of the Brecon View hot tub lodges in Garnant.
One of the best things about staying at Brecon View is how quickly you can swap the lodge for open mountain. The western Brecon Beacons, now known as Bannau Brycheiniog, are quieter than the busy central peaks, and the walking is every bit as spectacular.
Llyn y Fan Fach and the Carmarthen Fans
If you only do one walk, make it this one. From the small car park near Llanddeusant a steady track follows the stream up to Llyn y Fan Fach, a dark glacial lake sitting beneath a sheer red escarpment. Local legend says a fairy woman rose from these waters to marry a farmer’s son, and standing on the shore it is easy to believe.
Fit walkers can climb onto the ridge above the lake and follow the edge towards Picws Du and Fan Brycheiniog. On a clear day the views stretch across half of Wales. Allow three to five hours for the full ridge, or an hour or two for the lake and back.
The Black Mountain
The Black Mountain, or Y Mynydd Du, begins almost on the doorstep. The A4069 mountain road that climbs out of Brynamman is one of the great drives in Wales, and the pull ins near the top are perfect starting points for short walks across the moorland. Wild ponies, skylarks and huge skies are guaranteed. Other people are not.
Carreg Cennen and the Cennen valley
For a gentler day, park at Carreg Cennen Castle and follow the circular walk around the valley below the crag. Fields, woodland and the river lead you back to the castle, which looks even more dramatic from below. Finish with a cuppa at the tea room.
Pen y Fan
The highest peak in southern Britain is under an hour’s drive away. Start early from Pont ar Daf to beat the crowds, and save the classic horseshoe for a clear day.
After the walk
This is where Brecon View comes in. Every lodge has a private hot tub, and four have their own sauna, so aching legs are never a problem for long. If you walk with a dog, every lodge welcomes four legged guests.
Always check the weather before heading onto the hills, carry a map and waterproofs, and tell someone your route. Conditions on the Black Mountain can change quickly.
