This moderate-level, four-mile walk in the west of the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog, includes a bustling river, a lonely llyn and a wild mountain ridge.
Perhaps the hardest part of the day is finding the car park; pass the small community of Llanddeusant and you know you're close.
Parking up in the small, gravel car park (please park considerately), you'll already be aware of the solitude of this part of the Brecon Beacons – it's the quiet understudy to the neighbouring central peaks of Pen y Fan, Corn Du and Cribyn, yet certainly no less spectacular.
Llyn y Fan Fach walk
3.8 miles | 390m ascent | 2.5 hours | moderate
1. Llyn y Fan Fach car park
From the car park, follow the lower Beacons Way on a clear gravel track east, soon veering south as you meet Afon Sawdde.
Follow the torrent upstream, sticking to the main track to reach Llyn y Fan Fach after about one mile.
2. Llyn y Fan Fach
Llyn y Fan Fach sits beneath the precipitous ridgeline of Bannau Sir Gaer. It's an epic scene, the remnants of the landscape’s glacial past clearly visible in all directions.
The lake is a real wildlife haven. Look out for fish as they flip on the water's surface, while up in the sky, riding the thermals, you're likely to see red kites, buzzards, crows and kestrels.
Head to the right-hand side (west) of the reservoir and climb a path steeply uphill to the Bannau Sir Gaer ridgeline.
3. Bannau Sir Gaer
If you're feeling adventurous you can turn left and walk east along the entire ridge, all the way to Fan Hir. Otherwise, turn right and descend north on the upper Beacons Way, stopping from time to time to absorb the view.
4. Lower ground
The way drops into farmland to meet a small road. Turn right and return to the car park.
Llyn y Fan Fach map
Llyn y Fan Fach walking route and map
