A wide landscape view of the Brecon Beacons National Park, with rolling hills, autumn colours, and a shimmering lake surrounded by forests and open upland scenery.

Walking Holidays and Outdoor Adventures in the Brecon Beacons National Park

Mountains, Waterfalls, and Wide-Open Welsh Landscapes

Where gentle valleys rise into sweeping ridgelines — and every walk feels fresh, scenic, and full of possibility.

The Brecon Beacons National Park (officially Bannau Brycheiniog) is one of the UK’s most accessible mountain regions — a place of big views, iconic peaks, rolling hills, and dramatic waterfalls. Stretching across South Wales, it’s a favourite destination for walking holidays and outdoor adventures, offering a blend of family-friendly paths, classic summit routes, peaceful valleys, and vibrant market towns.

From the famous climb to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, to the cinematic cascades of Waterfall Country, the park delivers landscapes made for slow, scenic exploration. Walkers can follow well-marked routes across open ridges, wander through ancient woodland, or enjoy gentle riverside trails near Brecon, Crickhowell, Abergavenny, and Hay-on-Wye. It’s a welcoming destination with excellent accommodation, plenty of viewpoints, and routes suitable for all abilities.

With sunrise summits, ridgeline walks, and some of Wales’s most beautiful countryside, the Brecon Beacons remain one of the UK’s classic walking destinations.

Where to Walk

Pen y Fan & Corn Du

The most iconic walk in the Brecon Beacons.
A rewarding climb to the highest summit in South Wales, with panoramic views across rolling ridges and deep valleys. Popular, accessible, and perfect for first-time peak-baggers.

The Beacons Way (Central Sections)

Commercially popular sections cross the heart of the national park — including the Central Beacons, scenic valleys, and gentle uplands. Ideal for multi-day walking holidays or shorter highlights.

Waterfall Country (Four Falls Trail)

A spectacular woodland area near Ystradfellte, home to waterfalls such as Sgwd yr Eira, Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, and Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn. A favourite for families, photographers, and relaxed day walks.

Sugar Loaf (Abergavenny)

A classic, accessible summit with sweeping views over the Black Mountains and Usk Valley. Perfect for beginners or easy-going walking holidays.

The Black Mountains Ridge (Crickhowell & Llanthony)

Gentle, grassy ridgelines offering spacious, scenic walking with peaceful views across rural Wales. Popular for guided walks and weekend breaks.

Highlights

Adventure Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Brecon Beacons National Park located?

In South Wales, covering the Central Beacons, the Black Mountains, the Usk Valley, and the Western Beacons between Abergavenny, Brecon, Merthyr Tydfil, and Llandovery.

What are the best walks in the Brecon Beacons?

Pen y Fan, the Four Falls Trail in Waterfall Country, Sugar Loaf, Beacons Way sections, and ridge walking in the Black Mountains.

Is the Brecon Beacons suitable for beginners?

Yes — many routes are straightforward and well waymarked. Sugar Loaf, lower-level valley paths, and much of Waterfall Country are ideal for first-time walkers.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring to autumn for the best weather and scenery, though winter can offer dramatic views on clear days (with proper preparation).

Which towns make good bases for walking holidays?

Brecon, Crickhowell, Abergavenny, Hay-on-Wye, and Talgarth all offer excellent access to trails and accommodation.