Best Walks in Brecon Beacons This Winter

Craig-y-Nos Country Park

Distance: 1.5 miles

If you are seeking a taste of the wild without having to venture off the beaten track, then Craig-y-Nos Country Park is an ideal destination. Offering some of the best walks in Brecon Beacons this winter for visitors of all ages, its pathways are listed as grade 1 according to the park’s authority, meaning that they are barrier-free, very gentle, and have solid surfaces – and also host lots of places to sit and admire the views! Head over to wander the grounds of Craig-y-Nos Castle, built for the 19th century Italian opera singer, Adelina Patti, and absorb the setting. With a 40-acre Victorian garden, woodlands, meadows, ponds and more, there’s plenty to see as you go and you can cover as much or as little as you like. There’s also a tearoom to warm up in afterwards too.

Llwyn-onn Reservoir

Distance: 3 miles

For those looking for one of the best walks in Brecon Beacons this winter, Llwyn-onn Reservoir should capture your attention. The largest and most southerly of the Taf Fawr valley’s three reservoirs, it was created in 1926 and is hugged by a conifer forest that was planted shortly after. To get to know the area, park in one of the handful of car parks dotted around the reservoir and join the waterside path that follows Llywnn-onn’s peaceful shores. Underfoot, a mostly compact track makes walking a pleasure. Meanwhile, amongst the reeds and banks of the reservoir, sightings of otters, great crested grebes, goldeneye ducks, goosander and more add to the sense of wonder.

Pen y Fan and Corn Du Circular

Distance: 4 miles

The Pen y Fan and Corn Du circular walk is one of the best walks in Brecon Beacons this winter for keen hikers on clement days. Crossing the park’s highest peak, Pen y Fan, and its twin summit, Corn Du, this short yet challenging hike affords some of the most strenuous and rewarding conditions in the Bannau. It also offers some of the most stunning panoramas along the way. Park at Pont ar Daf car park and follow the well-made footpaths up to the summit, enjoying the spectacular views of snow-dusted valleys on particularly special winter days. You’ll need a good level of fitness to undertake this walk and, as always, be well-versed in the conditions and the route before you go.

Four Waterfalls Walk

Distance: 5.5 miles

Also known as the Four Falls Trail, the Four Waterfalls Walk is a particular favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. One of the best walks in Brecon Beacons this winter, it weaves through the heart of Waterfall Country and is a must for anyone seeking to uncover the Bannau’s diverse and dynamic landscapes. Park in one of the two car parks (Cwm Porth and Gwaun Hepste) and enjoy this magical route alongside the River Mellte, wending past each waterfall in turn: Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira. In deep winter, icicles start to form around the falls and decorate the scenery, creating a real-life winter wonderland. Just be careful when the paths become slippery and ensure to always wrap up warm.

Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular

Distance: 9 miles

The Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr circular walk is an ideal option if you are looking forward to a challenging hike. One of the best walks in Brecon Beacon this winter for experienced walkers, it takes around 5 hours to complete and loops around two beautiful lakes. It also traverses Fan Brycheiniog, the highest peak in the Black Mountain Range, as well as Waun Lefrith, Bannau Sir Gaer, and Fan Foel. Especially intriguing for historians, Fan Foel is home to a Bronze Age burial mound dating back thousands of years, and cremated bones, broken pottery and flint tools have all been found there. Arrive in good time to begin your walk and make the most of the winter daylight hours, ready to fall in love with the rich history and rugged mountainscapes around you.