Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk

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The Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk is a fun outdoor excursion in Wales that will take you through Brecon Beacons National Park to reach the summit of Sugar Loaf Mountain. While out walking the trail, you will make your way across the undulating terrain to reach the scenic summit of the mountain, before returning to the trailhead through the woodland expanse of Deri Fach. This is a fantastic adventure that will be less crowded than other routes in the area, but will still offer amazing views overlooking Brecon Beacons National Park.

Route Description for Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk

Featuring some fairly steep uphill climbs and rocky terrain near the summit, the Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk is definitely a route that will require some proper boots, particularly waterproof ones if you are planning on walking during or after periods of wet weather. Additionally, there will likely be sheep in the area, so be sure to keep your dog on a lead at all times.

While the terrain may be rugged in certain areas and you will likely be short of breath by the time you reach the summit, this is still an exceptional walking route with some spectacular views overlooking South Wales. With steep grassy slopes, a rocky summit, and a serene stretch of woodland landscape on the return leg of the walk, this is a fantastic route if you are looking for a bit of variety on your next adventure in the Brecon Beacons.

Setting out from the car park, you will follow the path leading to the northwest for 0.5 km, climbing uphill until you arrive at a junction. Passing straight through the junction, continue on along the path as it leads you further uphill for 128 m and head right at the fork. From here, you will keep on for 0.8 km to reach Mynydd Llanwenarth, before making the final push up the steep mountainside to arrive at the summit of Sugar Loaf.

Take some time to catch your breath after the hard work you just put in and enjoy the panoramic views across the Welsh landscape. Here, you will be able to spot the rugged landscape of the Black Mountains to the north, the vast expanse of Brecon Beacons National Park to the west, and the English countryside to the east.

After taking in the views, follow the path as it leads to the southeast and down the mountainside, crossing over the banks of Nant lago, before arriving at the edge of Deri Fach. Here, you will head right and briefly pass through the forest, following the trail as it continues downhill on the return to the car park where you began the Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk.

Trail Highlights

Sugar Loaf Mountain

Located within Brecon Beacons National Park, Sugar Loaf - also known by its Welsh name Mynydd Pen-y-Fal (mountain of the top of the peak) - is a small mountain in the southeast of Wales that resembles a sugar loaf. The peak is a popular walking destination that offers scenic views across the rugged Welsh landscape, and evidence of human habitation has been found on site that dates back to the Neolithic period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high is Sugar Loaf Mountain in Wales?

Situated in Brecon Beacons National Park, Sugar Loaf has an elevation of 596 m.

Why is it called Sugar Loaf?

As is the case with many mountains and hills throughout the United Kingdom, Sugar Loaf Mountain in Wales is named as such due to its resemblance to a sugar loaf.

Insider Hints for Sugar Loaf and Usk Valley Circular Walk

Be sure to keep your dog on a lead, as there will likely be sheep in the area.
Wear proper walking boots, as this trail does feature steep and rocky terrain.
Arrive early to secure parking.
Avoid this walk after periods of wet weather, as the trail can become very muddy.
If you're looking to stay longer in Brecon Beacons, consider staying in Abergavenny, which is a great market town to use as a base for your exploration.