Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

Route Description for Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

Although the route is absolutely breathtaking, the steep terrain along the Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk will be challenging for less-experienced walkers. Be sure to wear proper walking boots and bring plenty of food and water for the strenuous journey. Additionally, you should always bring a compass and map when exploring Brecon Beacons National Park, as it can be easy to become lost. Lastly, you will likely need to arrive early, as this is a popular walking route with limited parking.

In terms of scenery, the Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk is one of the most beautiful routes in Brecon Beacons National Park, thanks largely to its rugged mountains and charming lakes. While walking along the elevated trail, you will enjoy panoramic views across the Welsh landscape, including a sightline towards Pen-y-Fan and the central beacons on a clear day. If you don’t mind traversing some steep, grassy trails, then this route is an absolute must-do.

Setting out from the car park, you head to the south along the track for 1.6 km, working your way through a long and gradual ascent towards the Carmarthen Fans and the shores of Llyn y Fan Fach. Arriving at a fork in the road, you will take the path on the left and follow it further uphill until you arrive at another junction by the water’s edge. Here, you will turn right along the track for a mere 55 m, before branching off to the left on a rugged route across the open terrain.

Take some time to appreciate the views across the calm lake, as you climb further uphill to the west for 0.7 km. Here, the trail will bend to the southeast and provide excellent views overlooking Llyn y Fan Fach on the way to the summit of Waun Lefirth. From the summit, you will make your way to the northeast along this elevated trail for the next 1.6 km, enjoying the sweeping views of the surrounding mountain terrain before reaching the top of Picws Du/Bannau Sir Gaer.

After a slight descent to the east, you will continue along the trail to climb further uphill and traverse Fan Foel, before turning to the southeast on the climb up to the highest peak along the ridge: Fan Brycheiniog. From the 802 m summit, you will have an exceptional view overlooking Llyn y Fan Fawr, the second lake along the route, as well as the Brecon Beacons and Pen-y-Fan to the east on a clear day.

Once you have finished taking in the breathtaking views, you will make the steep descent to the southeast that will bring you around the east shore of the lake. From here, you will head to the northwest in order to skirt around the northern slopes of the mountains that you just traversed, enjoying an alternate view of them from below as you make your way back to the shoreline of Llyn y Fan Fach. From here, you will head back downhill along the track that will bring you back to the car park having completed the Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Carmarthen Fans

Situated in the western part of Brecon Beacons National Park, the Carmarthen Fans are a ridge of mountains that are a popular walking destination in Wales, as they offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The ridge is made up of Waun Lefrith to the west, Picws Du (also known as Bannau Sir Gaer) and Fan Feol in the centre, and Fan Brycheiniog to the east. The highest of the peaks is Fan Brycheiniog at 802 m above sea level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to swim in Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr?

Yes, wild swimming is permitted and safe to do in Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr, so don’t forget your swimwear if you are looking to cool off after your walk.

What mountains are in the Carmarthen Fans?

The Carmarthen Fans are a collection of mountains along a ridge that consists of Waun Lefrith, Picws Du/Bannau Sir Gaer, Fan Feol, and Fan Brycheiniog.

Insider Hints for Llyn y Fan Fach and Llyn y Fan Fawr Circular Walk

• Arrive early to secure parking, as the car park is very small and this is a popular route.
• Make sure to wear proper walking boots for this rugged walk.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there is a fair amount of elevation gain on this trail.
• Bring your swimwear if you fancy a swim in either of the lakes located along the trail.