Brecon Beacons: Waun Fach and Pen y Gadair Fawr
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Waun Fach (811m) is the highest peak in the Black Mountains and Pen y Gadair Fawr (800m) sits a kilometre to the south on the same broad ridge. This dog friendly horseshoe from Llanbedr links the two via the Grwyne Fawr valley and the Rhiw Trumau path, a long high level walk with quiet ground and big skies that very few mountain walks in southern Britain can match.
From the Red Lion start the route climbs steadily onto the ridge and most of the day is spent on open mountain where dogs can be off lead, though sheep and wild Welsh ponies graze freely so a solid recall is essential. The summit plateau of Waun Fach is famously boggy and the upper paths are exposed in poor weather, so navigation skills are needed. There are no facilities on the hill, the Red Lion in Llanbedr is the obvious post walk option for water and a meal. Parking is on the lane near the inn, please park considerately.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 18.0 km (11.2 miles)
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Duration
- 7 hr
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Moderate
- Facilities
- None on the hill, Red Lion Inn in Llanbedr offers refreshments.
- Parking
- Roadside parking near the Red Lion in Llanbedr, limited spaces, park considerately.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Brecon Beacons: Waun Fach and Pen y Gadair Fawr dog friendly?
Yes, this is a dog friendly mountain walk with a rating of 7 out of 10. The route spends most of its time on open mountain terrain, making it a genuinely enjoyable day out for dogs who are comfortable with long, demanding walks at altitude.
Can dogs be off lead at Brecon Beacons: Waun Fach and Pen y Gadair Fawr?
Dogs can be off lead for much of the walk once you're up on the open mountain. That said, sheep and wild Welsh ponies graze freely across the ground, so a reliable recall is essential before letting your dog run loose.
What should I know before visiting Brecon Beacons: Waun Fach and Pen y Gadair Fawr with my dog?
This is a long, demanding horseshoe route over two high peaks, with boggy ground around the Waun Fach summit plateau and exposed conditions in poor weather, so it's best suited to fit dogs and confident navigators. There are no facilities on the hill itself, but the Red Lion Inn in Llanbedr is the recommended stop for water and food after the walk. Parking is roadside near the inn, so spaces are limited and you should plan to arrive in good time.
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