Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5.5-7.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    18.7 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    744 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Be the first to add a review!
    Directions to Trailhead
    Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk

    The Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic and challenging walking route in Brecon Beacons National Park that will lead you into the central beacons for views overlooking the Welsh landscape. While out on the trail, you will leave behind the village of Llanfrynach and climb up the mountainside to the summit of Cribyn, where you will enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, including Pen-y-Fan. This is an exceptional walking route if you are looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Brecon Beacons.

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk

    Although the overall length and elevation gain along the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk do increase its difficulty, the walk is still a great walk for casual walkers looking to push themselves a bit. Be sure to come prepared with plenty of food and water, sturdy walking boots, as well as a compass and map to aid in navigation. Additionally, you may want to arrive early to secure parking, although there should be a fair amount available in the village.

    For those looking to test their physical fitness while enjoying sweeping views across Brecon Beacons National Park, the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk is an excellent adventure to do so. In addition to traversing some challenging terrain, you will be able to capture the magic of the rugged Brecon Beacons up close, including Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in Southern Britain. If you are looking for a lengthy day walk in the mountains, you could certainly do worse than the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk.

    Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way to the northwest along the road and keep left at the fork, continuing on for 0.3 km to pick up a footpath on the left. Here, you will pass through a gate and follow the track as it runs parallel to the banks of Nant Menasgin, continuing straight across the Welsh countryside for 1.7 km to arrive at a junction.

    Turning right at the junction, you will meet up with a road in 0.4 km and cross over it to pick the trail back up for a short distance before meeting up with another road. Head left along the road and follow it for 0.9 km, making a sharp right in order to continue on for another 1.8 km, where the road will narrow into a track.

    From here, you will continue on to the southwest for 0.2 km, passing through the gate and picking up the footpath on the right, where you will head left at the initial fork in order to traverse the open countryside on the way up the mountain. As you climb uphill towards the summit of Cribyn over the next 2.5 km, you will have some amazing views of the Brecon Beacons before you and the surrounding Welsh countryside in every other direction.

    After reaching the summit, take a few moments to appreciate the views, before following the path to the southeast that leads down from the summit. Keeping the steep slope on your left, you will head left at the first junction to begin making your way along a track leading into the valley below. After 3.2 km along this track, you will arrive back at the gate you had previously passed through before climbing up the mountain.

    Pass through the gate here and retrace your initial route along the road, enjoying some final views of the picturesque Welsh farmland asd you make your way back into the village of Llanfrynach where you began the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk.

    Trail Highlights

    Pen-y-Fan

    At 886m above sea level, Pen-y-Fan is the highest peak in Southern Britain and holds the distinction of being the 20th highest in Wales overall. The peak can be found within the boundaries of Brecon Beacons National Park, and offers views from the summit that stretch south to the Bristol Channel and north to the Cambrian Mountains. The name Pen-y-Fan means “the top peak” in Welsh, derived from its status as the highest peak in the range.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does Cribyn mean in English?

    Cribyn is Welsh for ‘little ridge’, a fitting name for the mountain as it is shorter than the peaks Pen-y-Fan and Corn Du that flank it.

    Are dogs permitted on Cribyn?

    As with the other nearby mountains in the Brecon Beacons range, dogs are permitted on Cribyn, although they must be kept under control at all times.

    Insider Hints for Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk

    • Toilet facilities can be found near the trailhead in Llanfrynach.
    • Wear sturdy walking boots with good support.
    • Bring plenty of snacks and water, as this route features long and arduous climbs that will require plenty of energy.
    • Be sure to bring a map and compass to better navigate the trail.

    Getting to the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk can be found in the village of Llanfrynach next to the Church of St Brynach.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Lollipop

    Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Llanfrynach and Cribyn Circular Walk Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter