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    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    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.
    687 m
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    11.1 km
    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.
    4-5.5h
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Directions to Trailhead

    Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm-Ilwch Circular Walk

    Measurement:

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    Table of contents

    The Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm Ilwch Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic - if challenging - walking route in Brecon Beacons National Park that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Welsh landscape. While out walking the trail, you will make the long and steep climb up to the highest point in Southern Britain, Pen-y-Fan, before traversing Corn Du and taking in the views overlooking Cwm Ilwch. This is a stunning way to experience the Brecon Beacons.

    Route Description for Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm-Ilwch Circular Walk

    If you are tired of walking the same old route leading up to Pen-y-Fan and are looking to escape the crowds (at least for the majority of the route) then you should definitely try the Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm Ilwch Circular Walk. This challenging trail will take you into the Brecon Beacons from the north side, climbing steeply uphill to experience the same stunning views overlooking the rest of the park.

    Setting out from the Cwm Gwdi car park, you will head to the southwest through the light tree cover and traverse the open grasslands in front of you, before climbing uphill along the steep slopes of the mountain. After a lengthy ascent, you will arrive at the summit of Pen-y-Fan, where you will enjoy sweeping views of South Wales that extend out across the Bristol Channel on a clear day.

    After taking in the views, you will continue along the trail to the west, traversing the summit of Corn Du to enjoy some views looking out onto Cwm Ilwch. From here, you will descend the mountainside to the northwest, eventually making your way into the valley floor on the return leg of the walk back towards the car park where you began your adventure.

    Getting to the Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm-Ilwch Circular Walk Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm Ilwch Circular Walk can be found at the Cwm Gwdi car park on Ffrwdgrech Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground:

      No

    • When to do:

      Year-Round

    • Pets allowed:

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly:

      No

    • Route Signage:

      Average

    • Crowd Levels:

      High

    • Route Type:

      Circuit

    Pen-y-Fan, Corn Du, and Cwm-Ilwch Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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