Best mountains in the Brecon Beacons

Brecon Beacons’ tallest peaks 

What better place to start, than with Pen Y fan, the highest mountain in the Brecon Beacons? Pen Y Fan stretches up to 886 metres, making it the tallest peak in South Wales. If you’re keen for a challenge, try the Beacons Circuit or the Horseshoe Ridge Walk. If you’re with little ones (or just fancy taking it a bit more easy), start at the Pont ar Daf car park for a stunning circular walk. Overall, Pen Y Fan is a great option for a stunning walk, with its startpoint just 13 miles from our Brecon Beacons cabins.

Next we have Corn Du, which is also accessible from the Pont ar Dar car park. At 873 metres, Corn Du is the Brecon Beacons’ second tallest peak (with Cribyn and Fan Y Big not far behind), with spectacular views stretching out across the dramatic mountains.

Black Mountains

On the eastern side of the Brecon Beacons are the Black Mountains. Here you’ll find tons of beautiful peaks such as Hay Bluff, Twmpa and Sugar Loaf… Aren’t the names just brilliant? 

The highest peak in the Black Mountains area is Waun Fach. We recommend starting at Cwmdu, a picturesque village nestled by the Rhiangoll river, which is just next to the peak. You can also adventure across The Dragon’s Back, a dramatic ridge leading up to the peak, with views across the Wye Valley. 

For an all-rounder walk in the Black Mountains that everyone can enjoy, we recommend Fan Hir. It’s a 7 mile route ending up at a breath-taking lake called Llyn y Fan Fawr… Which is a great spot for a picture-perfect post-hike picnic!

Brecon Beacons Mountain Centre

With its own café, gift shop and children’s play area, the Brecon Beacons Mountain Centre (officially called the National Park Visitor Centre) is a great pitstop before setting off on another adventure.

To get there, just drive 20 minutes north of Garwnant — then you’ll be right next to Mynydd Illtyd Common, where you can soak up panoramic views of the Black Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.